In 2005, Disney took a risk. They introduced a new character to Tokyo Disney Resort, hoping that it would take off with roaring popularity. Duffy the Bear made a strong impression on guests and quickly became a beloved part of the Disney character lineup throughout the Asian-based Disney parks. When introduced to a US fan base, Duffy received a slightly different welcome.
I’ve said it before. As Disney guests, we are notoriously critical of anything new. When a new character is introduced, we can’t always be trusted not to stare back at it like disapproving three-year-olds before turning our backs in revulsion. The same can be said for any time Disney tries to take any liberties with a character, changing their appearance or making too many storyline advancements in a sequel. We take this stuff very seriously, and once we’ve got a particular narrative in our heads, no alternative will do! Sadly, Disney’s Bear Duffy, said to be the Teddy bear of Mickey Mouse, would suffer a disappointing fate on US shores. Even though we could appreciate Duffy the Bear’s popularity throughout the Asian markets, his introduction to the Californian Disney parks wasn’t met with the instant fandom he had previously seen. After a less-than-welcoming arrival, Duffy’s Mickey silhouette-shaped face wasn’t enough to save him from early retirement in 2014.
Now, watching the celebrations that are in store for Duffy’s 20th Anniversary, I wonder if the US audience has matured a bit more and is perhaps ready to finally embrace this beloved foreign character. Whenever we cover a Duffy-related topic, I always see people here and there commenting they wish there were more of a Duffy presence in the USA. I instantly feel my eyes narrowing into my three-year-old skeptical self. Do we? I ask with a glimmer of contempt. It might be because Duffy isn’t represented in any of the Disney media I am familiar with, so I don’t feel any emotional connection with him that would give me a sense of endearment. However, I concede that times have changed, and maybe Duffy needs a second chance. After all, there was a time when many turned their nose up at the notion of a talking snowman and an ice-welding Disney Princess before they won over our hearts, and let’s face it, who could live without knowing Olaf is a part of the Disneyverse now?
I’ll admit I did have a moment of love at first sight when it came to ‘Olu, Duffy’s friend, who we discovered at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in O’ahu, Hawai’i. But Duffy? I just can’t get completely on board for some reason. Let me know your thoughts. Do we need more Duffy in our lives?
Feature Image: Shanghai Disney Resort
