Central Florida might be as hot as Tatooine and as swampy as Dagobah but apparently the Force is strong at Walt Disney World. On Saturday, the Walt Disney Co. doubled down on its commitment to the "Star Wars" universe, announcing the largest themed-land expansion at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Disney World and the Disneyland park in California.
At the D23 event in Anaheim on Saturday, Walt Disney Co. Chairman and CEO Bob Iger announced the expansion, which includes “two signature attractions, including the ability to take the controls of one of the most recognizable ships in the galaxy, the Millennium Falcon, on a customized secret mission, and an epic 'Star Wars' adventure that puts guests in the middle of a climactic battle.”
“I am thrilled to announce the next chapter in the long and exciting history between Disney Parks and 'Star Wars,'” Iger said on Saturday. “We are creating a jaw-dropping new world that represents our largest single themed land expansion ever. These new lands at Disneyland and Walt Disney World will transport guests to a whole new 'Star Wars' planet, including an epic 'Star Wars' adventure that puts you in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance.”
"Star Wars" is already represented at Hollywood Studios with the Star Tours attraction which has been at the park for more than 20 years. Star Tours will be updated as “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” the seventh film in the series, which opens on Dec. 18. In 2012, Disney acquired Lucasfilm, including the "Star Wars" franchise, for more than $4 billion.
Another sci-fi movie franchise will also be playing a larger role at Disney World. "Avatar" Land, based on the James Cameron film, is scheduled to open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in early 2017 with numerous attractions. The second "Avatar" movie is scheduled for release at Christmas 2017.
With “Toy Story 4” scheduled for release in June 2017, Disney is also expanding that franchise’s presence at Hollywood Studios as "Toy Story" Land will join "Star Wars" Land. Over the weekend, Disney announced plans for a roller coaster ride and other attractions in addition to increasing access at "Toy Story" Mania, already one of the most popular attractions at Hollywood Studios.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter: @KevinDerbySSN
