Disney Makes Drastic Changes to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure After Fan Backlash

Walt Disney Imagineering has revealed a magical enhancement to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the new attraction at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park. Guests riding through the reimagined experience can now spot Ray and Evangeline from Disney’s The Princess and the Frog shining in the night sky near the ride’s conclusion.

This addition brings a heartfelt touch to the attraction, as the two beloved characters symbolize enduring love and hope. Fans of the 2009 animated film will recognize the firefly Ray and his celestial love, Evangeline, as key elements of the movie’s charm. Their inclusion in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure further integrates the film’s essence into the ride, creating a moment of nostalgia and emotional connection for parkgoers.

Related: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Secrets Exposed By Disney Imagineers

A Controversial Transition from Splash Mountain

While the new scene adds a fresh layer of magic, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has faced significant scrutiny since its announcement. The attraction replaced Splash Mountain, a longtime fan-favorite ride known for its thrilling drops and memorable theme tied to Song of the South. The decision to retheme Splash Mountain was met with mixed reactions from Disney fans, sparking a heated debate online.

Critics lament the loss of Splash Mountain’s iconic status, while supporters applaud Disney’s commitment to cultural sensitivity and inclusivity by focusing on the much-loved story of Tiana, Disney’s first Black princess. The company has positioned the reimagining as an effort to celebrate diverse storytelling and offer a fresh perspective in its parks.

Walt Disney Imagineering shared photos of a recent enhancement to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World. Guests can now see Ray and Evangeline from ‘THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG’ featured in the sky near the end of the ride.

Walt Disney Imagineering shared photos of a recent enhancement to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World. Guests can now see Ray and Evangeline from 'THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG' featured in the sky near the end of the ride. pic.twitter.com/i3tvlCjVzM

— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) December 5, 2024

A Step Toward Tiana’s World

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure invites guests into a continuation of Tiana’s story, picking up after the events of the film. Set in a lush bayou environment, the ride features vibrant scenery, new music inspired by the film, and innovative animatronics. With Ray and Evangeline now shining brightly, Disney aims to strengthen the connection between the ride and the film’s emotional core.

After opening, some fans complained that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure felt empty compared to Splash Mountain. These new updates seem to address these complaints with changes.

Walt Disney Imagineering shared photos of the enhancement, highlighting the delicate artistry that brought Ray and Evangeline to life in the attraction’s finale. Their placement in the sky is designed to evoke the magic of the film’s iconic bayou scenes, offering a new highlight for fans of both The Princess and the Frog and Disney theme parks.

As Tiana’s Bayou Adventure continues to evolve, fans remain divided on whether the ride will live up to the legacy of Splash Mountain. However, the addition of Ray and Evangeline demonstrates Disney’s commitment to capturing the spirit of The Princess and the Frog while providing memorable, magical experiences for guests.