From Walt to Woke: How Disney World Has Changed in 2025
In 2025, Disney World is as magical and divisive as ever. But under that magic, a louder conversation has taken over.
Critics say Disney has become too political. Loyalists insist it’s evolving with the times. And somewhere in the middle? Many confused families are just trying to figure out what happened to the Disney they grew up loving.
Content That Misses the Mark
A lot of fans say they’ve stopped watching because Disney’s newest shows and movies feel too focused on being “woke” instead of just telling fun, family-friendly stories.
Over the past few years, Disney’s on-screen content has leaned heavily into social commentary. Whether it’s The Proud Family reboot covering systemic racism or Strange World featuring LGBTQ+ representation, the storytelling has become more focused on political messaging. Something parents certainly aren’t taking their 5-year-old to the movies to see.
Even the live-action Snow White remake—still surrounded by questions—has drawn criticism for changing characters and themes in ways that feel more driven by agenda than creativity. The result? Several of these projects have failed to resonate, either critically or financially. Fans are tuning out, not because they oppose progress, but because the storytelling just isn’t landing.
Classic Attractions, Quietly Gone
Another one of the biggest flashpoints has been the quiet retirement of longtime Magic Kingdom staples. Rivers of America, the Liberty Belle riverboat, and Tom Sawyer Island all officially closed, without much fanfare. These peaceful, story-rich experiences weren’t about thrills. They were about slowing down and soaking in old-fashioned Americana—something Walt Disney deeply appreciated.
Now they’re gone, making way for Piston Peak National Park, a high-energy expansion tied to Pixar’s Planes universe. Kids will probably love it, but many adults feel something soulful was traded away.
A Return to What Works
Then, in a breath of fresh air, came Lilo & Stitch. The 2025 live-action remake skipped the politics and zeroed in on what fans have always loved: quirky fun, family bonds, and emotional storytelling. There was no need for subtext: just an alien, a girl, and the theme of ‘ohana’ holding everything together.
It became an instant hit—and reminded everyone what Disney can do when it puts its heart first.
Magic Still Lives Here
While the headlines often focus on controversy, the truth is, Disney World still delivers those pinch-me moments. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is full of heart and music. Test Track is going retro with fresh energy. The Disney Starlight parade, which feels like the next-gen version of the Main Street Electrical Parade, continues to leave guests in awe.
And with significant new expansions—including a dark, immersive Villains Land—there’s no doubt that Disney is still investing in big, imaginative ideas.
Finding the Balance
So, what is Disney World in 2025? A little bit of Walt, a little bit of modern, and maybe even a little confused. But if the success of Stitch proves anything, it’s that when Disney leads with heart instead of headlines, it still has the power to bring generations together—and that’s the kind of magic worth fighting for.
