When you think of Walt Disney World, iconic characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Cinderella come to mind, right? However, Disney’s theme parks are also studded with some lesser-known characters original to their attractions.
Disney’s official @wdwannualpassholders Instagram account recently posted this series of [unfortunately] fantasized character designs plastered on Skyliner gondolas with the caption “Disney Skyliners if Passholders Picked Them”:
I’m torn between two thoughts: “Whoever runs this account is ‘one of us’. They get it.” and “How rude — but why aren’t these actually a thing?!”.
But, this got me thinking how passholders and frequent Walt Disney World visitors tend to appreciate the original characters created just for attractions, with no prior movie establishment… and some are pretty obscure. Sure, I could go on and on about Captain Rex (now DJ R3-X), or EPCOT’s little purple dragon. But today, I’d like to shine the spotlight on a few of my more obscure favorites. And I’d love to hear some of yours!
“Foxy Brown”
She’s one of the more popular animatronics inside Spaceship Earth. She’s known as Foxy Brown amongst fans; she’s a working woman, and she’s queen. From the bright yellow tights, plaid mini skirt and black wedge boots to that fabulous hair paired with a lab coat; how can you not adore this 1970s computer scientist lady?
Little Leota
Just before you approach the Doom Buggy exit platform inside the Haunted Mansion, there’s a small veiled spirit beckoning all to “hurry back… be sure to bring your death certificate”. It’s unclear whether there’s any official tie to Madame Leota, the disembodied head floating in a crystal ball, but she is presumed to be the same character and is known as “Little Leota” amongst the fan community. Additionally, this version of a Leota is actually voiced by Imagineer Leota Tombs. I just love staring up at her at the end of the cemetery scene, and how her eyes seem to follow you as you pass on to the hitchhiking ghosts.
Tomato Girl
Another exit scene moment: Living with the Land edition. Perhaps one of the most soothing scenes from this relaxed boat ride is the last one showcasing people from around the world paired with fruits, vegetables and grains, set to a calming flute track. It’s hard to miss the blueberry baby, but most importantly: tomato girl. Is she disinterested? Is she serving avant-garde? Is she the moment? Yes.
One of my cosplay people-watching highlights from this last D23 Expo was spotting the one and only Tomato Girl herself conveniently placed along a black backdrop– GENIUS.
What are some of your more obscure favorite characters from Disney attractions? I’ve got a few more in mind, so I’ll be back with this soon!
Theme Park Correspondent for The DIS | Chloé loves kitschy dark rides, roller coasters, a good background area music loop, hot Butterbeer, and all things Halloween. You’ll mostly find her wandering around Orlando’s biggest theme parks snapping pics and sharing tips… or probably talking about The Great Movie Ride.
