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Credit: DisneyFor the first time since 1966, Disneyland has changed the popular Disney park attraction, “it’s a small world.”
It’s time to say goodbye to the ride we all grew up with (in a sense).
Disney Park Attraction Undergoes Major Change for First Time Since 1966
It began like any ordinary morning at Disneyland Park—children laughing, families rushing toward Sleeping Beauty, and the familiar sounds of classic Disney melodies echoing through the air. But tucked away, something quietly historic was happening. As Guests boarded their boats for “it’s a small world,” they were met with something completely unexpected—a verse they had never heard before.
Why did this familiar tune feel different today?
A Ride That Changed the World
For nearly 60 years, “it’s a small world” has been more than just a boat ride—it’s been a cultural anthem of unity. First introduced at the 1964 New York World’s Fair and permanently installed in Disneyland two years later, this musical journey has touched generations of parkgoers with its infectious message: we’re not so different after all.
But even timeless classics evolve—and today, Disney quietly unveiled a poetic addition to this iconic attraction that has fans both surprised and emotional.
The Heart Behind the Harmony
The new lyrics, introduced in the finale scene of the attraction, weren’t just added for novelty. They are the final lyrical gift from Richard M. Sherman—one half of the Sherman Brothers duo responsible for some of Disney’s most unforgettable songs, including “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow,” and, of course, “it’s a small world.”
This last verse was penned by Sherman shortly before his passing, serving as a heartfelt punctuation mark on a lifetime of musical magic. According to his son, Gregg Sherman, the new lyrics are meant to “celebrate that there’s more that unites us than divides us, and reinforce the message of that song.”
The New Verse Unveiled
Guests riding today may notice the lyrics echoing softly throughout the attraction, culminating in the finale room:
“Mother earth unites us in heart and mind
And the love we give makes us humankind
Through our vast wondrous land
When we stand hand in hand
It’s a small world after all.”The Tapestry of Happiness projections show had been updated to include the new LAST VERSE of “it’s a small world” as of today – @dlnt on X
The Tapestry of Happiness projections show had been updated to include the new LAST VERSE of “it’s a small world” as of today pic.twitter.com/ajQB90yf8N
— Disneyland News Today (@dlnt) July 17, 2025
Though subtle in its integration, the verse carries an enormous emotional weight. It’s not only a tribute to Sherman’s legacy, but also a timely reminder of the power of unity in a world that often feels divided.
Why This Matters
Disney has confirmed that this will be the final lyrical update to the ride, solidifying the Sherman Brothers’ legacy while ushering in a renewed commitment to their original message. In an era of global uncertainty, the attraction’s message has perhaps never been more relevant.
And Disney isn’t letting this moment pass quietly. Late last year, the company released a touching short film titled The Last Verse, commemorating the song’s 60th anniversary. The 3.5-minute film brings audiences across continents, connecting cultures and generations as the song passes from hand to hand—culminating in the reveal of Richard M. Sherman’s new, final lines.
A Lasting Legacy for This Disney Park Attraction
For fans, this isn’t just a change in a ride script—it’s the end of an era, sealed with heartfelt poetry from a man whose work has brought joy to millions.
The new verse doesn’t just add a line—it adds a legacy, reminding us that no matter our differences, when we stand hand in hand, it really is a small world after all.
So the next time you float past those singing dolls, listen closely—you might just hear the voice of a legend, whispering his final message of hope and harmony.