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Credit: Inside The MagicThe Walt Disney Company is exploring ways to integrate its vast array of intellectual properties into its Disney World theme parks, and recent surveys hint at potential changes involving “The Simpsons.”
A New Era for “The Simpsons” in Disney World Theme Parks?
Disney is currently asking guests about their interest in “The Simpsons” through a survey shared by theme park enthusiasts on social media platform X. Drew Smith, one such user, posted a screenshot of the survey featuring questions like:
“Which of the following offerings do you want to hear more about from The Simpsons?”
In a new survey, Disney asks Guests about The Walt Disney Company’s brands, franchises, and offerings, including The Simpsons. The answers include “Character meet & greets at the Disney theme parks” and “New lands or attractions at the Disney theme parks.” Thoughts?
In a new survey, Disney asks Guests about The Walt Disney Company’s brands, franchises, and offerings, including The Simpsons.
The answers include “Character meet & greets at the Disney theme parks” and “New lands or attractions at the Disney theme parks.”
Thoughts? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/d8RwdqjIp5
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) December 27, 2024
Options include ideas such as character meet-and-greets and new lands or attractions within Disney theme parks. This development has sparked excitement and speculation among fans, as “The Simpsons” is notably absent from Disney’s parks despite being part of its portfolio since 2019.
Universal’s Current “Simpsons” Presence
To understand the significance of Disney’s survey, we must look at the current home of “The Simpsons” in theme parks. Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood have celebrated the iconic animated family since 2008.
Springfield, a themed area at Universal Studios Florida, immerses guests in the world of “The Simpsons” with attractions like The Simpsons Ride and Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl. These lands also include themed dining and retail experiences, such as Moe’s Tavern and the Kwik-E-Mart.
When Disney acquired 20th Century Fox in 2019, bringing “The Simpsons” into its fold, Universal quickly reassured fans that the purchase would not affect their existing “Simpsons” attractions. Reports suggest that Universal’s licensing agreement for the property runs through 2028. However, with that date just a few years away, speculation is growing about the future of Springfield at Universal parks.
What Does This Mean for Universal Orlando Resort?
Universal Orlando Resort is on the cusp of significant transformation with the highly anticipated opening of Epic Universe in 2025. As Universal prepares to debut this new park—featuring cutting-edge attractions and themed lands based on beloved franchises—rumors are swirling about how existing properties might be reshuffled or retired.
Springfield’s place in Universal’s future plans is uncertain. The land has been a staple for “Simpsons” fans, but with the licensing agreement potentially expiring in 2028, Universal could be looking to replace it with an intellectual property they own outright. Such a move would align with Universal’s broader strategy of showcasing its in-house franchises, particularly with the arrival of Epic Universe.
A Window of Opportunity for Disney World?
If Universal decides to phase out “The Simpsons,” it could pave the way for Disney to finally incorporate the franchise into its parks. The survey indicates Disney is seriously considering how to leverage “The Simpsons” as part of its park offerings.
Possibilities include themed lands, immersive attractions, or interactive experiences akin to Disney’s recent expansions such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Avengers Campus.
The timing is critical. By gauging guest interest now, Disney could lay the groundwork for developing “The Simpsons” experiences in tandem with Universal’s potential relinquishment of the property. For Disney World, introducing “The Simpsons” could diversify its offerings and draw fans of the long-running series to the parks.
What Fans Can Expect
While the survey is far from a confirmation of any plans, it does offer a glimpse into Disney’s strategic thinking. Fans of “The Simpsons” might envision:
- Character Meet-and-Greets: Iconic characters like Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie could become staples at Disney World, offering new photo opportunities and interactions.
- Immersive Lands: A fully realized Springfield could rival Universal’s version, complete with rides, eateries, and Easter eggs for die-hard fans.
- Interactive Experiences: Disney’s innovative use of technology, such as the MagicBand+ interactivity in “Star Wars” and “Marvel” lands, could add a fresh dimension to “The Simpsons” attractions.
As Universal Studios Florida potentially gears up to bid farewell to Springfield, Disney’s interest in “The Simpsons” underscores a larger trend in theme park evolution. With competition between Disney and Universal intensifying, both companies are leveraging their intellectual properties to captivate audiences and drive attendance.
The Bigger Disney World Picture
For theme park enthusiasts, the next few years promise exciting developments. Whether it’s the reimagining of existing lands or the creation of new experiences, the fate of “The Simpsons” will be a fascinating story to watch.
Disney’s survey about “The Simpsons” has reignited speculation about the franchise’s future in theme parks. As Universal Orlando Resort prepares for the debut of Epic Universe, changes to its existing attractions could create opportunities for Disney to bring “The Simpsons” into its parks.
While it’s too soon to know what’s next, one thing is clear: the evolving landscape of theme parks continues to push boundaries, delighting fans of all ages.
Stay tuned for updates as the worlds of Disney and Universal evolve in exciting and unexpected ways.