Click Here for current Disney MGM Studios news 15 December 2005: Who Wants To Be A Millionaire taping at Disney-MGM Studios in January Meredith Vieira will be at the Disney-MGM Studios
on Thursday, Jan. 12, Friday, Jan.13 and Sunday, Jan. 15 to tape
episodes at the "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-Play It!" attraction. 29 November 2005: New York facade rehab complete The New York skyline facade on the backlot has been under rehab for the last month, and has now been completed and restored to its former glory. 26 November 2005: Great Movie Ride finale movie clips updated The movie clip finale at the Great Movie Ride has now been updated to include a few recent movies. New to the selection of great movie moments are Narnia, Finding Nemo, Forest Gump, Pearl Harbour, Chicago and Pirates of the Caribbean. 16 November 2005: Journey Into Narnia: Creating The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- In the great tradition
of Disney attractions which put guests in the middle of movies and
stories, Disney-MGM Studios will host an exciting walk-through
experience based on the upcoming Disney Pictures and Walden Media motion
picture release, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the
Wardrobe." 8 November 2005: Indy to stay, and something new in place of the ABC Theatre? It seems that the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular is here to stay for a good while longer. Plans to replace this long running show with a major $100 million + Eride are rumored to have been canned for now. Attention now has moved to demolishing the ABC Theatre, and the Sounds Dangerous show, and installing a new ride through attraction in that location. The timeframe for this is said to be within the next 4 years. 12 October 2005: ABC Super Soap Weekend details LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Susan Lucci ("All My
Children") will headline a star-studded lineup of more than 30 stars
from the ABC Daytime dramas at the 10th annual ABC Super Soap Weekend at
Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World Resort Nov. 12-13. 21 September 2005: Archway rehab (Thanks to Jez) The archway leading to the Animation Courtyard is currently under an extensive rehab. All of the green tiles have been removed, along with the signage. 19 August 2005: Osborne Lights installation underway The installation of this year's Osborne Lights is well underway. 21 July 2005: Mediterranean-Inspired Menu Featured At Disney-MGM Studios Fast Casual Dining Location LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The Studios Catering Co.
Flatbread Grill has opened at Disney-MGM Studios with a
Mediterranean-inspired menu served up in "fast casual" style -- the
convenience of quick service combined with high-quality food and more
healthful choices. 18 June 2005: Chicken Little stars arrive at the Studios LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Abby Mallard (aka the
Ugly Duckling) and Chicken Little are the latest stars of the silver
screen to join the family of stars at the Disney-MGM Studios theme park.
The animated duo are featured in the Walt Disney Pictures' animated
feature film "Chicken Little" which will be released in theaters
nationwide on Nov. 4, 2005. 18 June 2005: Actress Maggie Grace at Disney-MGM Studios last week Actress Maggie Grace, who plays Shannon Rutherford on the ABC series "LOST," asked Goofy for a little help in finding her way around the Disney-MGM Studios.
10 June 2005: July 4 events and hours LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- July 4 guests at Disney-MGM Studios and Magic Kingdom will be treated to performances of fireworks shows that are part of the parks' heritage but rarely seen in recent times at Walt Disney World Resort:
10 June 2005: Star Wars Weekends extended The Jedi have returned to Disney-MGM Studios in
full force for Star Wars Weekends in 2005 and event organizers responded
today by announcing the park-wide sci-fi fest will be extended two
additional weekends. 8 May 2005: Dinner inside the Great Movie Ride Members of the press at the recent media events were treated to dinner amongst the sets of The Great Movie Ride. (Thanks to Pam for the photos) 7 May 2005: Disney-MGM Studios press party firework Disney held a huge firework display at the Studios for the assembled media representatives. 5 May 2005: Celebrity performances at Disney MGM Studios party Ashanti (pictured below left), Joey Fatone and the lead-singer of Smashmouth, Steve Harwell helps kickoff the "Happiest Celebration on Earth" Wednesday evening at the Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
4 May 2005: Schedule of events for today's press events Here is the latest schedule for today's events. Note this is an invite only series of events, and will not be available to guests. 2:00pm Media briefing in the ABC Theater 21 April 2005: Star Wars Celebrities Schedule May 20 - 22 May 27 - 29 June 3 - 5 June 10 - 12 8 April 2005: Power Rangers now at the Studios LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The newest members of the star family
at Disney-MGM Studios have stormed into the theme park in a big way,
as five generations of television's Power Rangers have joined the
daily "Disney Stars and Motor Cars" parade. 27 February 2005: George Lucas visits WDW With his newest film, "Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith" set to debut in theaters in May 2005, "Star Wars" creator and director George Lucas took time late Thursday evening, Feb. 24, 2005, to meet "Jedi Mickey Mouse" at the Disney-MGM Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Lucas is on vacation this week at Walt Disney World. "Revenge of the Sith," the final film in the "Star Wars" saga, will be released worldwide May 19, 2005. (Photo: Mark Ashman/Disney)
26 February 2005: Star Wars Weekends LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- As the long-anticipated and newest Star Wars film -- Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith -- debuts in theaters nationwide May 19, 2005, Walt Disney World Resort will raise the curtain on its month-long celebration of the most famous saga in movie history during the annual Star Wars Weekends at the Disney-MGM Studios theme park. Once again, the power of the Force and the magic of Disney combine for the family-friendly fan-fest, scheduled for four consecutive weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) beginning May 20, 2005, at Disney's showbiz-inspired theme park. With the park's famous Star Tours thrill ride serving as the centerpiece of the celebration, Star Wars Weekends fills Disney-MGM Studios with dozens of heroes, heroines, droids and villains from the famous films. Meet-and-greets with famous villains and heroes from the five Star Wars films -- Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, The Phantom Menace and Attack of theClones -- Star Wars Weekends bring guests face-to-face with their favorite characters. Guests never know which Star Wars character they'll find around the corner, whether it's the heroic and young Jedi Luke Skywalker, the poised and regal Queen Amidala, the furry, loyal and lovable Chewbacca or the evil Siths Darth Vader and Darth Maul. Star Wars celebrities are special guests during each weekend, taking part in meet-and-greet sessions, star conversations and Hollywood-style motorcades. The lineup of Star Wars legends appearing during the month will be announced soon. Here's a sampling of festival activities:
19 February 2005: New menu for Studio Catering Company Studio Catering Company now serves flatbread sandwiches including cumin-spiced lamb kefta with baba ghanoush and harissa sauce, tandoori chicken with tomato and cucumber raita, and a steak "gyro"-style sandwich with roasted red pepper hummus and tomato and onion relish. For kids, a grilled chicken wrap with lettuce and cream cheese, or a chilled smoked ham wrap are offered. Dessert includes seasonal fruit tarts, lemon curd in a meringue shell, and panna cotta with strawberries. 23 January 2005: Fantasmic rehab Fantasmic is closed for some minor rehab work, January 24 2005 to January 26 2005. 11 January 2004: ESPN The Weekend details BRISTOL, Conn. -- ESPN and the Walt Disney World Resort will once
again offer fans the opportunity to see and hear ESPN personalities
and several legendary athletes during the second annual "ESPN The
Weekend Presented by Speed Stick 24/7," a special event at
Disney-MGM Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Feb. 25-27, 2005. 9 January 2004: ESPN The Weekend ESPN The Weekend is returning to the Disney-MGM Studios February 25 - 27, 2005. No details yet of any events scheduled, but see the 19 May 2004 update below for an idea of what to expect. 3 January 2005: Millionaire taping at Disney-MGM Studios LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The television quiz show "Who Wants To
Be A Millionaire," hosted by Meredith Vieira, will tape five weeks
of episodes during January at Disney-MGM Studios. 22 November 2004: Chicken Little promo A huge inflatable chicken has appeared over the newly painted Playhouse Disney building. 17 October 2004: Magic of Disney Animation preview (Thanks to S25843) Here are some photos from the passholder preview of the newly extended Animation Tour. The tour will be reopening Saturday, September 25, 2004 3 October 2004: Osborne lights installation continues (Thanks to foxfire) 29 September 2004: Honey I Shrunk the Kids Temporarily Closed Due to damage from Hurricane Jeanne, Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure at the Disney-MGM Studios, will be closed for repairs until further notice. Updates regarding the re-opening of this location will be made as information becomes available. 13 September 2004: Osborne Lights installation Work is well underway installing the millions of lights around the new backlot city streets. Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights (Nov. 24-Jan. 2) returns to Disney-MGM Studios -- lighting a whole new area of the park -- the backlot cityscape -- with millions of sparkling lights. With Jennings Osborne's lights and a little Disney magic, the big city will come alive in glowing color as snow falls overhead. The dazzling spectacle is included with Disney-MGM Studios admission. 3 September 2004: Due to Hurricane Frances, Fantasmic will not be performed on Saturday, Sunday or Monday. The entire island is currently being stripped by technicians ready for the hurricane. 2 September 2004: Tom Joyner Family Reunion Cancelled ORLANDO, Fla. (Sept. 1, 2004) -- The Tom Joyner
Family Reunion at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida
scheduled for September 3-6 has been cancelled due to a state of
emergency declared by Governor Jeb Bush today. 18 August 2004: Tom Joyner Family Reunion - Disney-MGM Studios Party LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Tickets for a
star-studded party at Disney-MGM Studios on Sept. 4 featuring such
entertainment icons as Anita Baker, Alicia Keys, Monica and Big Boi
from OutKast are now on sale. 4 August 2004: Rehab updates The Magic of Disney Animation will be closed for refurbishment Monday, September 13 through Friday, September 24, reopening Saturday, September 25, 2004. 17 July 2004: Disney Animation tour rehab The Magic of Disney Animation will be closed for refurbishment Monday, September 13 through Friday, September 24, reopening Saturday, September 25, 2004. 30 June 2004: Fantasmic! rain show Fantasmic now has the capability of running an alternative rain show. In the situation that the stadium has been loaded with guests, but the weather then forces the regular show to be cancelled for performers safety, the new mini-Fantasmic (under 5 minutes in duration) is shown. It consists of a few musical sequences, and fires off the pyro that would be used during the regular show. Note that if the weather is forecast to be poor prior to opening the stadium (where the normal show would be cancelled), the stadium would not open just to show the mini-version. It will only be shown if the stadium is loaded with guests and the main show is subsequently cancelled. 19 June 2004: July 4 Info Disney-MGM Studios: Disney-MGM Studios will celebrate the Fourth of July with a special nighttime fireworks show at 9 p.m. Exploding in a kaleidoscope of color over the 12-story Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat icon, the showbiz-inspired, pyrotechnic performance will feature a choreographed soundtrack that combines traditional tunes with pop tributes. Fireworks again take center stage at 10:30 p.m. when Mickey Mouse stars in "Fantasmic!" -- the theme park's popular 30-minute show that features lasers, lights, dancing fountains and dazzling special effects. 30 May 2004: Starring Rolls Café now open LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- A new "star" was
recently born at Disney-MGM Studios when the quick-service nook
known for years as Starring Rolls Bakery re-opened with a new look,
an expanded menu and a new name to reflect the additional offerings. 19 May 2004: ESPN The Weekend BRISTOL, Conn. -- To celebrate ESPN's 25th
anniversary, ESPN and Walt Disney World Resort will offer fans the
opportunity to see and hear ESPN personalities and the greatest
athletes of the past 25 years through "ESPN The Weekend," a special
celebration at Disney-MGM Studios in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., July 31
and Aug. 1, 2004. 10 May 2004: Osborne Lights During the 5th May announcements, the Osborne Christmas lights were confirmed to be returning again for 2004 Christmas season. 9 May 2004: JoJo & Goliath LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Two of the preschool
crowd's biggest stars have joined the Disney-MGM Studios family of
stars as JoJo and Goliath -- the popular pair that headline the hit
Disney Channel series "JoJo's Circus" -- now appear daily in the
"Disney's Stars and Motor Cars" parade. 4 May 2004: New 15th Birthday display (Thanks SeanR) 16 April 2003: Animation Tour expansion With the closure of the Florida Animation group, the studios are left with a large building attached to the existing animation tour that previously held 300+ animators. This building is now being converted into providing a more extensive animation tour to park guests. It appears that more elements from the DCA version of the tour will be added, including the interactive Sorcerer's Workshop. 16 April 2004: Star Wars Weekends 2004 LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The power of the Force and
the magic of Disney combine once again for Star Wars Weekends,
scheduled for five consecutive weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
beginning May 14, 2004, at Disney-MGM Studios. May 21-23: Peter Mayhew May 28-30: Anthony Daniels & Andy Secombe June 4-6: Warwick Davis June 11-13: Daniel Logan In addition to the Star Wars celebrities appearing,
the park will be brimming with Star Wars activities and celebrations.
Here's a complete run-down of the five-week fan-fest activities: 7 April 2004: Rehabs Honey I Shrunk the Kids will be closed for refurbishment Monday, May 3 through Wednesday, June 30 reopening Thursday, July 1, 2004. 25 February 2004: Star Wars Weekends 2004 LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The power of the Force and
the magic of Disney combine once again for Star Wars Weekends,
scheduled for five consecutive weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
beginning May 14, 2004, at the Disney-MGM Studios. 12 January 2004: Feature Animation closing The Walt Disney Co. announced Monday that they will close the feature-animation studio in Orlando, Florida. Around 300 jobs will be affected by the closure. The closure is understood to be due to a decline in the popularity of hand-drawn animation, with a preference of movie goers to see computer animated movies, such as Monsters Inc and Finding Nemo. No word yet on how this will affect the parks animation tour attraction. More info from http://www.local6.com/news/2757030/detail.html 3 November 2003: Super Soap Weekend LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- More than 30 ABC Daytime stars from "All My Children," "One Life To Live" and "General Hospital" will appear at the eighth annual ABC Super Soap Weekend at Disney-MGM Studios, Nov. 8-9, 2003, at Walt Disney World Resort. The star-studded event will be headlined by "All My Children" actress Susan Lucci. The fan-friendly event features autograph sessions, Hollywood-style motorcades, star conversations, celebrity concerts and interactive game shows. Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind memorabilia from the shows. ABC Super Soap Weekend is the world's largest annual soap opera fan event. In addition to Lucci, stars scheduled to appear this year include: All My Children
One Life to Live
General Hospital
Celebrity Hosts
In addition, Willey will also host "Casting Call," an event new to Super Soap Weekend where fans get an opportunity to "audition" in front of a live audience to do a scene with an ABC Daytime star. There will also be special "Super Soap Editions" of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-Play It," with ABC stars answering questions in the game's famed "Hot Seat" while audience members play along. Also, “Soap Talk” -- SOAPnet’s Daytime Emmy-nominated daily talk show hosted by Lisa Rinna and Ty Treadway -- will tape two episodes inside the theme park on Nov. 8. The SOAPnet crew will tape four of the event’s star conversations and motorcades at 9:45 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturday. The four motorcades and star conversations will be edited into two episodes of “Soap Talk” airing Nov. 19-20 on SOAPnet. ABC.com once again is hosting the official ABC Super Soap Weekend Web site. Special features on the site include a schedule of weekend events, an interactive map of Disney-MGM Studios and more. The site also provides information on vacation packages for the weekend. ABC Super Soap Weekend is included in the regular theme park admission at Disney-MGM Studios. Disney-MGM Studios is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort. FASTPASS used for the first time at Super Soap Weekend For the first time in event history, Disney’s award-winning FASTPASS system will be utilized for all “On Location” celebrity autograph sessions. The FASTPASS system, which reduces wait time at popular Disney theme park attractions, will allow guests to maximize their time at ABC Super Soap Weekend and experience other event activities. For the latest guidelines and FASTPASS tips for Super Soap Weekend, guests may visit the “Tips” section of ABC.com’s Super Soap Weekend Web site. The Tips pages may be accessed directly at abc.go.com/daytime/supersoap/mgm/tips.html. 21 October 2003: Dine with an Imagineer LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Ever wished you could
learn firsthand about Disney's world-renowned creativity? How Walt
Disney Imagineering, the creative arm of the company, puts magic in
all it does? Guests can now have lunch or dinner with a Disney
Imagineer at the Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney-MGM Studios. 8 October 2003: Brother Bear at the Studios The new animated movie Brother Bear has now made an appearance at the Animation Courtyard. 8 October 2003: Haunted Mansion Sets Previews have been underway at the Haunted Mansion sets for CMs, with guest opening to begin imminently. 6 October 2003: Haunted Mansion Sets (Thanks OrlPassholder) A new sign has appeared outside of Soundstage 4 ready for the opening of the new exhibit in a few days time. 15 September 2003: SpeederBike removed (Thanks OrlPassholder) The SpeederBike has been removed from outside of Star Tours, possibly for rehab. 9 September 2003: Haunted Mansion sets The new Haunted Mansion sets, that are due to open October 6 2003 on Soundstage 4, will feature the huge Ballroom set, staircase, pipe organ, costumes, and behind the scenes videos. 9 September 2003: Animation Tour update The Animation Tour is set to close at the end of September (reopening in November 2003) for some significant changes to the tour, and general rehab work on the building. The new tour will begin by visiting Drawn to Animation, which will feature a live animator, who will interact with Mushu on screen, and with members of the audience. Next up will be the self guided tour through Feature Animation. Finally guest will enter the Animation Academy, where they can create their own art, under the supervision of a real Disney aniamtor. Work on the building includes lots of repainting, new carpets, lighting etc. 21 August 2003: Playhouse Disney to get FASTPASS Playhouse Disney is currently planned to receive FASTPASS sometime in October 2003. 21 August 2003: Rock n RollerCoaster rehab RnR will be closed from September 6 - 14th 2003 for a rehab. Work during this period includes brake replacements. 21 August 2003: haunted Mansion sets The Mansion sets from the upcoming movie are scheduled to open in Soundstage 4 on October 6th 2003. 21 August 2003: Tower of Terror rehab The Tower of Terror is set for a lot of rehab work during September. 18th - 21st September will see one side of the Tower closed. 22nd - 26th will see both sides closed, and then 27th September - 17th November will again see one side only closed. Work during this period includes cable replacements, and some new ride control systems. 25 July 2003: Haunted Mansion Sets The sets for the upcoming Haunted Mansion movie have been to delivered to the Disney MGM Studios, ready to be installed in Soundstage 4 (the former home of the 101 Dalmations set). The attraction will be a self guided tour, ready to open at the same time as the movie. 20 June 2003: Stunt Show update Information now suggests that the stunt show preparations have just been delayed. The dilemma facing planners is what to do with the Osborne lights if residential street is removed. Current thinking (which as always changes daily!) suggests that the demolition of residential street will begin after the Osborne lights are ran this Christmas. The tram tour will then be rerouted to bypass the former residential street. Planners are also looking for ways to provide additional things to see a long the tour once residential street is removed. After this year. the Osborne lights are being considered for installation along New York Street and/or elsewhere. 18 June 2003: Stunt show update Just when we thought things were becoming clear with the Stunt Show moving into residential street... The Backlot Tour has just been down for a rehab, and it was planned that during that time the tour would be re-routed to skip past residential street, leaving the path clear to begin demolition ready for the stunt show. It now turns out that during the rehab, the route was changed 3 times, and ultimately it was left as it was still running along residential street. So it may now be that the Stunt Show is delayed, has been relocated, or cancelled altogether. 16 June 2003: The Stunt Show backlot rumor revisited Further to the 28 May update below, it seems that the Stunt Show is looking like a good bet for Disney/MGM Studios backlot area. Over the past weeks, crews have been working to move all of the Osborne lights out of storage from the facades along Residential Street, and into the former Hunchback Theatre. The Backlot Tram Tour is currently being re-routed to go behind the soundstages and near the animation building, which would then leave them clear to demolish residential street, and clear the way for the motor stunt show. Parts of the Osborne lights are clearly visible in the 3 shots below of the Hunchback Theatre The photos below show some work underway on replacing some facades around New York Street.
9 June 2003: Great Movie Ride reopen The Great Movie Ride reopened Sunday from its recent rehab. New exterior paint, new interior paint, lighting, digital sound system, and new CM spiel. Reports so far indicate the new spiel is a worthwhile update, and is not the rumored "Jungle Cruise type" style. 28 May 2003: Stunt Show - Disneyland 50th Celebration at WDW? To coincide with the 50th Anniversary of Disneyland in 2005, there are several plans on the drawing board for WDW, ranging from area enhancements, through to new rides and shows. MGM's possible enhancements include the addition of the Motor Stunt Show from the Walt Disney Studios at Disneyland Paris Resort. The current planned location for the new show is the area close to Catastrophe Canyon. There are currently construction walls around the old Hunchback Stage area and also around part of the back of New York Street and the backlot. While much of this work is rehab work on the facades, it is being speculated that preparation for the Motor Stunt Show is underway. While the Stunt Show is definitely under serious consideration by Disney, please note that it has not be given the definite go ahead. 6 May 2003: Great Movie Ride rehab info The great movie ride is currently under rehab until June 2003. Changes include:
Vehicle cycling is back underway, so everything looks good for the attraction opening back up on time for June. 28 April 2003: Star Wars Weekends details LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- The power of the Force and the magic of Disney combine once again for Star Wars Weekends, scheduled for five consecutive weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) beginning May 16, 2003, at the Disney-MGM Studios. Inspired by the Star Wars saga -- Star Wars, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace and the most recent box-office smash, Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones -- Star Wars Weekends bring guests face to face with their favorite characters, from the cuddly Ewoks to the evil Darth Maul. With the park’s famous Star Tours thrill ride serving as the centerpiece of the celebration, Star Wars Weekends fills the Disney-MGM Studios with dozens of heroes, heroines, droids and villains from the famous film saga. Each weekend, fans are able to “star gaze” as two Star Wars actors take part in meet-and-greet sessions, star conversations and Hollywood-style motorcades. Star Wars legends and actors scheduled to appear throughout the event include: May 16, 17, 18: Anthony Daniels (“C-3PO”) and Billy Dee Williams (“Lando Calrissian”). May 23, 24, 25: Andy Secombe (“Watto”) and Warwick Davis (“Wicket the Ewok”). May 30 & 31, June 1: Silas Carson (“Nute Gunray”) and Joel Edgerton (“Young Owen Lars”). June 6, 7, 8: Jeremy Bulloch (“Boba Fett”) and Peter Mayhew (“Chewbacca”). June 13, 14, 15: Temuera Morrison (“Jango Fett”) and Michonne Bourriague (“Aurra Sing”). Also featured at the five-week fan-fest: •Wookiees, Jawas and Ewoks, Oh My! -- One of the largest gatherings anywhere of characters from the Star Wars films -- from Queen Amidala and Darth Vader to Chewbacca and Greedo -- will roam the Disney-MGM Studios greeting guests, signing autographs and posing for photographs. New this year: special appearances by characters from Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones, including galactic bounty hunters Zam Wesell and Jango Fett. •High-Energy Thrill Ride -- Guests can take flight to the moon of Endor in Star Tours, an action-packed flight simulator that salutes the Star Wars series. Synchronizing a stunning film with the virtually limitless gyrations of the simulator, the attraction takes guests on a hair-raising, lightspeed trip aboard a careening star speeder. •Galactic Game Show -- Special editions of the popular game show attraction “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire--Play It!” will be presented, with a variety of Star Wars-inspired questions and surprise appearances by film characters. The attraction’s studio audience can join in the fun by answering trivia questions using keypads installed at each seat. •Interactive, Interstellar Fun -- Star Wars trivia contests and games will be held near the Star Tours attraction to test fans’ film knowledge. In addition, a special Video Starcade will feature Star Wars-inspired electronic games. •Obi-Wanna-Be -- Throughout the day, several lucky youngsters will be chosen to take part in the “Jedi Training Academy,” giving Jedi hopefuls the chance to learn moves with a lightsaber, then test their skills against Darth Vader himself. •A Galaxy of Collectibles -- Disney and Lucasfilm Ltd. have created event-exclusive Star Wars merchandise -- from trading pins (including a special boxed set) and commemorative posters to apparel, medallions and other limited-edition items -- that will be available in Tatooine Traders. With a look inspired by scenes in The Phantom Menace, the retail location is adjacent to the Ewok Village set at the Star Tours attraction. Star Wars Weekends launch into orbit May 16 and will be held five consecutive weekends (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) through June 15. Activities are included with regular Disney-MGM Studios admission. “Out of this world” ticket deals for Florida residents -- Florida residents can enjoy this unforgettable event with “un-4-gettable” savings with Disney’s Play 4 Days, the newest ticket offer for Star Wars fans living in the Sunshine State. 14 April 2003: Sorcerer Hat Icon changes complete (thanks Sean23) 31 March 2003: Sorcerer Hat Icon changes (thanks Sean23) 5 March 2003: Sorcerer Hat Icon changes (thanks Sean23) Now that the 100 Years of Magic celebration is over, the new park icon is being modified with something new to take the place of the former 100 Years logo. 7 January 2002: Who Wants to be a Millionaire (Thanks Ed) I am a little late on this one (change occurred around the Super Soap Weekend), but there have been a few changes to Millionaire.. "Regis has been deleted from the show. They just come in and run it as a straight-forward game show with the same rules as before. The grand prize is no longer a trip to NY for a taping of the now-cancelled show and a leather jacket, but a four night cruise for four on the Disney Cruise Line and a leather jacket. CMs said that they usually average about one winner a month." 4 November 2002: Tower of Terror 4 The long rumored Tower of Terror 4 is now officially confirmed by a Disney spokesman talking to press yesterday. The new version of the Tower will feature several all new drops profiles, linked to the famous randomizer, giving a different ride each trip. As well as new drops profiles, there are new interior show effects. Tower of Terror 4 is scheduled to be unveiled to the public in January 2003. 18 September 2002: Studios Entertainment Changes "Hunchback of Notre Dame - A Musical Adventure" will have it's very last performance on Sept. 28, 2002. "Beauty and the Beast - Live on Stage" will return to a 7-day show schedule. 16 September 2002: Cinemagique coming to the Studios? The popular attraction from the new Walt Disney Studios in Paris is being strongly tipped to be installed into the Disney MGM Studios in 2005. Below is a description from the Paris version. SCRIPT 12 August 2002: New Tower of Terror Seat Belts (Thanks BH) Reports in this week indicate that some of the elevators on Tower of Terror have been fitted with new lap belts in place of the lap bar. This may be part of Disney's increased focus on safety systems, or a requirement for the upcoming Tower of Terror 4 drop profile perhaps? Anyone know more? 10 July 2002: Get Happy...With ABC! photos (thanks kevlightyear) 4 July 2002: Get Happy...With ABC! LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Guests to the Disney-MGM
Studios will get a first look at the exciting new fall lineup of shows
on ABC in "Get Happy...With ABC!" a new show presented for a limited
time in the theme park's ABC-TV Theater. 10 June 2002: New attraction There are rumors that a new show (similar to the old Superstar TV), will appear within the next few weeks in the former Doug Live theatre. 21 May 2002: Studios Update (thanks Blastman) Work on the Ewok Village at Star Tours will be
limited to repainting and having new wood and such put in. 20 May 2002: Studios Update (thanks to Rob) Almost all the buildings at the Studios have
received a fresh coat of paint and the park is sparkling. 8 April 2002: Olympic Medalist Michelle Kwan Saluted at Disney-MGM Studios Carrying on a Hollywood tradition, figure skater
Michelle Kwan put her hands -- and ice skates -- in cement April 5,
2002, at the Disney-MGM Studios at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena
Vista, Fla. 9 January 2002: Prime Time Rehab The 50's Prime Time Cafe is scheduled to close for an extended rehab beginning last weekend. They are doing major renovations to the place, and CMs working there have been re-assigned to other restaurants. 9 January 2002: Voyage of the Little Mermaid Rehab Voyage of the Little Mermaid is set to close in a few weeks for an extended rehab, including some show changes. This info is not officially confirmed at this time. 23 October 2001: Fantasmic! to go to reduced show schedule NOTE: The following is rumor and speculation, and is not officially confirmed information. Along with the news of SpectroMagic being cancelled, it seems that Fantasmic is also facing the cut. However, Fantasmic is being spared to some extent, by still operating at peak times. Again, this is unofficial information, but comes from a reliable source. As the plan stands right now, Fantasmic will go into reduced shows at about the same time that SpectroMagic is cancelled, around November 2001. 23 October 2001: Backstage Pass Closed The backstage tour of the Disney Studios soundstages, Backstage Pass has now been closed. Presumably due to further budget cuts. :( 9 October 2001: Rehab News (thanks Laura) The Honey I Shrunk The Kids Movie Set Adventure will be closed for rehab starting Oct 15th for 5 weeks. 20 September 2001: Echo Lake under rehab The lake is currently drained and is being refurbished. Thanks to Craig P for the photos. 19 September 2001: MGM being evacuated on the
11th, and the increased security on the 12th. 3 September 2001: Residential Street News CMs on the Backlot Tour are saying that one of the houses on residential street (first one on the right hand side), is being modified for use on the new Tim Allen show. (Thanks to Eeyore's mom for the news) 29 August 2001: New construction in front of the Studios entry area Thanks to MrPromey for the photos 1 August 2001: Osborne Lights Info The Osborne Spectacle of Lights is scheduled to open to the public on November 21st, 2001. The Sneak Preview for passholders will be during the weekend prior to that. June 28 2001: New Backlot Tour OPEN The new look tour opened yesterday, with a Pearl Harbor theme. There is a new preshow movie and props, new show sets, new effects, new story, and comments from Michael Bay as the show progresses. June 1 2001: Tower Update A few days ago we had some photos of construction on the front of the Hollywood Tower Hotel. We have since been told that there is some routing maintenance work being carried out on the drive system. May 24 2001: Something happening on Tower of
Terror? Anyone know anything about this? Look just above the Hollywood sign. May 3 2001: Doug Closing We have heard now from several Disney Studios CMs that they have been notified that Doug will have its last performance on May 11 2001. No news on any replacement yet. However, the show's prime location makes it ideal for some 100th Anniversary usage. April 20 2001: A great report from Mike Hundgen - the first Millionaire winner at WDW! Hey all-After spending a week in WDW, I have to
admit that my new favorite When you first walk into the soundstage, the Cast
members are there to direct you to the seats in the house. The set is
just like the one on television, A. Spaceship Earth The winner was brought out on stage and she started
going through the questions. Everyone in the audience plays along as
well and whoever has the higher score when the contestant loses in the
chair, gets to go up and play in the hot seat. So the first show went
through and I made it on the leader board, but I was never at the top.
The show ended after going through 3 contestants and each of them
losing pretty early on, but still getting some great prizes. We went
around MGM a little longer, then my 3 friends and I went back to
Millionaire for another shot. This time I was determined to get in
that seat. I took my spot in the audience and waited for the new
fastest finger. The question was "Put the following clock numbers in
order, starting at the A. 10 I punched in and knew I was right on that one. The
leader board popped up The question was, "Which company's corporate character has the proper name Bibendum" A. Mr. Clean I automatically leaned toward answer c. So I took a
shot at it and took a wild guess with Michelin Man. Then all of a
sudden, the music started up, the crowd went nuts and the streamers
went flying. I was the FIRST official Millionaire at Walt Disneyt
World. Prizes include 15 collector pins, a hat, a polo shirt, a
varsity leather jacket, the CD rom game, a trip to New York to see the
show, and to meet Regis personally. The whole thing was amazing I
still can't believe that it happened to me. In a few weeks they will
be building a wall of fame with each Millionaire and his/her photo. If
you do visit MGM anytime soon GO SEE Millionaire, it is an amazing
experience and get a fastpass because the lines are going to be long.
Also, hang onto those pins if you win, The collectors in Dowtown
Disney were all over me, trying to trade them away! But of course I
didnt! Good luck everyone and have fun! April 12 2001:Regis Philbin Makes Million Dollar Entrance to Open “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-Play It!” at Disney-MGM Studios LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- (April 6, 2001) Armored trucks loaded with collectible prizes, Mickey Mouse and Regis Philbin himself arrived at Disney-MGM Studios today to launch the opening of the “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-Play It!” live-show attraction at Walt Disney World Resort.Philbin handed the “keys to the hot seat” to six new theme park hosts charged with recreating the drama delivered in the ABC-TV game show “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.” Theme park guests will enjoy the “Millionaire” experience in exacting detail -- seated in a replica of the famous high-tech set, complete with its dramatic lighting and hot seat. Disney-MGM Studios guests, however, will play for points, not dollars, winning unique prizes along the way. Prizes range from collectible pins and hats to a grand-prize trip to New York City to view a taping of the ABC-TV game show. “We’re thrilled to combine one of America’s top television shows with the world’s most popular studio theme park,” said Al Weiss, president of Walt Disney World Co. “At Disney-MGM Studios guests will find out for themselves what it’s like to sit in the hot seat.” The live show will run continuously throughout the day in a 600-seat studio located in Soundstages 2 and 3 at the Disney-MGM Studios. Like the television show, the fastest finger determines the first contestant to sit in the coveted hot seat. All audience members play along by using individual keypads as their scores are tallied throughout the session. They also get involved when players use the “ask the audience” lifeline. Other guests could be called upon for help with the “phone a complete stranger” lifeline. “The company that produces ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’ worked hand-in-hand with Walt Disney Entertainment to make sure that the ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire - Play It!’ attraction at the Disney-MGM Studios is just as gripping, entertaining and exciting as the real thing,” said television executive producer Michael Davies. Disney-MGM Studios immerses guests in the glamour of show biz 365 days a year with thrilling attractions, incredible Broadway-style shows, world-class atmosphere entertainment and interactive film, television, radio and animation production facilities. The theme park is part of the 30,500-acre Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla. Premiering as a regular ABC series in January 2000, “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” soared in popularity to become the most watched television series of the 1999-2000 season. Proving its broad viewer appeal, “Millionaire” also finished the season as a Top 10 television program among adults 18-34, 18-49 and 25-54, as well as among teens and kids. “Millionaire” is truly appointment television, regularly building on its lead-in audience and consistently delivering on each of the nights it airs. Press Conference with Regis Philbin, Michael Davies and various media representatives. Moderator: We welcome back to the set Executive Producer Michael Davies and the star of “Who Want’s To Be A Millionaire,” Regis Philbin. Welcome to both of you. This is a bit of a reversal for you, Regis, because rather than asking the questions, you get to answer them now.Regis: How did the first contestant in the seat do, how much money? Moderator: She did very well, she walked away with 8,000 points. She got a hat and pins. Regis: She got a hat and pins. Well that’s good; that’s all right. Can’t beat a good Disney hat and a pin. Moderator: So anyway…we are ready to fire away… Question: Is there a chance that you’ll bring the show down here and do the television show from here? Regis: Well, I think there’s a good chance, but Michael will know more about that. Michael: Yeah, we’re talking about it, we would like to, we need to figure out some things … try to do a schedule … Question: I hear you have a big, a couple of big winners next week, ABC’s already announced it. Are you surprised it took so long? Michael: Well, no, it surprises me that anyone goes to the million anyway. When they’re sitting there with 500,000, unless you like ask them their middle name, … I’m surprised, these always seem to come like busses, you know, when one person wins another person seems to come along immediately and do it again. Regis: Well, we’ve got two very exciting shows coming up next week and we waited a long, long time, and there were no winners, and then suddenly two won, so it’s going to be terrific. Question: I love some of the things that you do with the show, with bringing in celebrities and whatnot. We play a game on the radio every day at 5 o’clock, it’s called “I’ve Got Five On It.” If you wouldn’t mind, could you let us know your top five celebrities that you’ve had on the show, in your personal opinion, your top five celebrities. Regis: Top five celebrities? Well, the guys I love are the fellows who make me laugh, like Martin Short, he was terrific; Jason Alexander was great. I’ll tell you another one, Norm McDonald, Norm McDonald was the last one in the hot seat the last time we played the celebrities and then went on to go up to a million dollars and then, like Michael said, didn’t have, wasn’t sure, didn’t want to lose 400 and whatever it is thousand dollars for Paul Newman’s Kids, so he walked away with 500,000. Norm McDonald, Jason, Alec Baldwin was a great one, Rosie was a lot of fun. Anyone else that you can think of? Yeah, those were some of the best, and very smart people, too. Question: After the first phenomenal year of the show, you had said that you thought the buzz about this show could probably keep going for another year or two. I mean, the real buzz. Do you think this interactive exhibit, you’ve done things obviously to keep the buzz going like the stars editions, but this exhibit here at Disney World will keep it going now and continue the success of the show? Regis: Well you know somebody else asked me that, what is the plus and the minus of having an exhibit like this where you entertain maybe 6,000 people a day and that comes to 30,000 in the five-day work week. I think the appeal of this show is so powerful that the online version of it, the board game version of it, the CD-ROM version of it, has only heightened the excitement about the show and has made them want to watch and maybe even participate one day in the real thing. So I don’t see any leveling off of the excitement. Naturally, the ratings when we came out were stratospheric. You can’t keep ratings that high. There has to be a leveling off period. But yet if you look at the top 10 shows every week, the top 10 rated shows, you’ll see four Millionaire shows in there every week and what network could ask for more than that. Michael: Not more than that. “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” is on four nights a week on a weekly basis. “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” is watched by more people, more adults 18-49, than any other show on television. We don’t have very many people who watch four nights a week. They tend to watch one night. Wh |