Ed Catmull, President of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, Announces Retirement
After 12 years as President of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, Dr. Ed Catmull has announced he’ll be stepping down at the end of the year. His plans are to remain in an advisory role at Pixar through July 2019. Catmull was first hired by George Lucas to lead Lucasfilm’s computer division. Then in 1986, he co-founded Pixar Animation Studios with Steve Jobs and John Lasseter. In statement about is retiring Catmull said, “I have the mixed emotions that come with stepping away from a group of people I love, but also with the utmost pride and pleasure that we now have at both Pixar and Disney Animation the most dedicated and imaginative leaders I have worked with.”
Play Disney Parks App Introduces Limited Release Pins
This week, Play Disney Parks introduced three limited release pins available for purchase to guests completing attraction challenges. Guests can purchase pins when they finish challenges on Peter Pan’s Flight, Space Mountain, and Toy Story Mania. All pins $14.99 and are available near the attraction exits. Guests must show proof of completion to purchase the pins. Both Disneyland and Walt Disney World Parks are offering the exclusive pins.
Disney reportedly looking into Pirates of the Caribbean reboot.
Rumor has it that Disney is once again looking to do something with the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. This time with the help from writers Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick. The duo is best known for their work on the Deadpool and Zombieland films. While Disney is still in early talks for this reboot, it looks like producer Jerry Bruckhiemer would remain involved. No announcement has been made on whether other cast and crew from the five film franchise would be part of this new take.
Walt Disney World Introduces Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party!
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is introducing a new add-on offering for guests. Starting on October 30 (October 29 for Annual Passholders), guests can book reservations for Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party! This Christmas Party event exclusive runs from 9:30 pm–12:30 am and includes endless hors d’ourves, desserts, and beverages. Guests can come and go as they please during the evening and can also take advantage of reserved viewing for the 11 p.m. parade. The cost is $99 per person and guests must have Party tickets to make reservations.
Disney Reportedly Files Patent for Rotating Roller Coaster Vehicle
According to reports, Disney has filed for a patent on a new rotating vehicle design. While rotating vehicles are hardly a new concept, Disney’s application for a roller coaster contains a mounted storage device attached to the car itself. The devices would then be recharged at stations along the coaster track. Where Disney plans to use this design remains a secret for the time being. However, speculation is that it’s for the Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster coming to Epcot. Earlier this year, Walt Disney Parks and Resort chairman, Bob Chapek gave a presentation at the D23 Expo in Japan saying the Guardians coaster will feature a “new innovative ride system.”
Other Stories of Note
Please Don’t Spread the Remains of Your Loved Ones as Disney Parks. Yes, what you’ve heard is true. People spread the ashes of their loved ones at Disney Parks, even though it’s not allowed. While some people have found it worth the risk, those caught in the act are removed from the Park and could possibly be charged with a misdemeanor.
Fox reportedly looking at buying back sports networks from Disney. In order to grant approval for Disney to purchase 21st Century Fox, the United States Department of Justice is requiring Disney to sell Fox’s regional sports networks. According to CNBC, the leading contender is New Fox, the remaining portion of Fox assets that Disney isn’t purchasing.
Boba Fett film 100% off the table. If the current gossip is to be believed, then we’re not getting a Boba Fett film. At al — or at least not anytime in the foreseeable future.. According to journalist Erick Webber, “Kathleen Kennedy just confirmed to me Boba Fett movie is 100% dead.” Apparently, the focus has shifted to The Mandalorian series in production for Disney’s streaming service.
KnowsMore, is Vanellope a Disney Princess? Will Alex get a definitive answer to this burning question? Learn more about that deliciously meta princess scene form Ralph Breaks the Internet.
Party exclusive Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card will feature Enchanted Tiki Room birds. At this year’s Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, guests will be able to pick up a limited release Sorcerers spell card with the Tiki Room’s “Four Cawing Birds.”