Various reports indicate that the American Idol Experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be closing in January. The show on FOX has seen a steep ratings decline which have perhaps impacted the popularity of the attraction. No word on what may replace the attraction. Before the attraction opened in February 2009, the venue was mostly vacant since the closing of Doug Live in 2001.
The timing of the closure may be seen as odd as it will be closing as American Idol is set to begin its 14th season on television in January. We do not know the reason for the closure at this time but possible reasons may include the license for the show expiring, future development, or a cost saving measure.
UPDATE: Disney and Fremantle have released a joint statement regarding the closure of the American Idol Experience: “After more than five successful years, The American Idol Experience will be coming to a close at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park in January 2015. Our partnership with FremantleMedia and 19 Entertainment has been a great addition to the park and we are very appreciative of the amazing cast and guests who have devoted their time and talent to make this experience special and memorable. We are incredibly proud of the more than 2,000 Dream Tickets that have given guests a chance to live their very own Cinderella story and audition for ‘American Idol’. This past season alone, three of the Top 13 contestants were originally discovered through The American Idol Experience and we expect the attraction to continue providing top contestants for ‘American Idol’ XIV in the coming year.”