Backlash Erupts Over New Walt Disney Animatronic: “It Looks Nothing Like Him”

Yesterday, Disney fans were given a first look at the highly anticipated Walt Disney animatronic, set to debut at Disneyland Park on July 17, 2025. The animatronic, which is part of a new show dedicated to the iconic Disney founder, has generated excitement among many, but it has also sparked an online debate regarding its appearance.

What Happened to Walt?

The new Walt Disney animatronic was unveiled in a sneak peek video shared by Disney, showing the character in motion, seemingly bringing the legendary figure to life. However, while the animatronic’s mechanics and movement have garnered praise, some fans have expressed disappointment over the face design.

A number of Disney fans took to social media to criticize the portrayal, particularly the animatronic’s facial features. One user pointed out the similarities with previous controversy over animatronics, writing, “Yall booed me when I said the Tiana animatronic didn’t look like Tiana…well this is the exact same issue here😬.”

Yall booed me when I said the Tiana animatronic didn’t look like Tiana…well this is the exact same issue here😬

The AA’s mechanics make the face look way too chubby, the muscles under the costume look weird, the eyes are off and the cheeks are way too high😭 https://t.co/HwigI5VYnk pic.twitter.com/7xI45z0ERU

— Themountainking (@Themountainkin1) July 14, 2025

Others were quick to agree, echoing concerns about the animatronic’s likeness to the real Walt Disney. One fan remarked, “It looks nothing like him.” Many of the critiques centered around what some saw as issues with the proportions and the overall facial features.

It looks nothing like him pic.twitter.com/jwRD3O1Q6k

— Cynical Disney (@cynical_disney) July 14, 2025

Backlash Erupts

Fans of Disney have always been particular about the likeness of animatronics, especially when it comes to beloved figures like Walt Disney himself. These kinds of animatronic characters are a huge part of the immersive experience in Disney parks, and for many, the appearance of these figures is just as important as their movements.

While Disney has not yet responded to the backlash, it is clear that the animatronic’s debut is sparking conversation—both positive and negative—among the Disney community.

Fans are anxiously awaiting the full reveal of the show on July 17, and it remains to be seen whether Disney will make any adjustments based on the feedback. For now, the new Walt Disney animatronic is both a source of intrigue and critique as fans eagerly debate whether the likeness truly does justice to the figure who started it all.

For those planning to visit Disneyland Park when the show debuts, it will be interesting to see how the animatronic plays into the overall experience, and whether the criticisms of its appearance will continue. One thing is for sure: this latest addition to Disneyland’s lineup has given fans plenty to talk about.