Hey Siri, play I Will Remember You by Sarah McLachlan.
Disney has decided to bring us into a weekend of mourning, as they try to bury this sad bit of news within the happiness of one’s Friday. One meaning any of my fellow Muppet lovers, dreamers, and me.
Disney has announced the Grand Avenue area will close in phases:
- The last day to dine at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is May 10th
- Muppet*Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo will both close on June 8th, with the last day to experience both locations on June 7th
A closing date for the current version of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has not been announced.
To make way for the new Monsters, Inc. land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Muppets are moving (and replacing yet another attraction) to another area within the park; effectively closing Muppet*Vision 3D’s doors for good. Does this hurt? Yes, yes it does. If you’re like me, Muppet*Vision 3D was most likely a major component in you falling in love with these felt creations. After 34 years of entertaining us from all over the world, it’s tough to say goodbye to such a central piece of Disney’s MGM/Hollywood Studios.
In case you missed it, I highly recommend giving Idea Man a watch on Disney+. Released last year, it’s a sentimental and detailed documentary about Jim Henson’s life and works. More notably in relation to today’s news, it highlights the importance for Jim to have his Muppets represented in the Disney parks- with Muppet*Vision 3D being the last project he was able to contribute to before his untimely passing in 1990.
How are you feeling? I’m trying to be optimistic for the future of the Muppets at the parks, as Disney has highlighted the fun in store for the Muppety Mayhemmy x Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, and new Muppets merchandise headed for Sunset Boulevard.
But this one stings… and I honestly thought we had a little more time.
Catch me at Grand Avenue ALL DAY on June 7th.
