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Credit: Inside the MagicThe ink is barely dry on the press release naming Josh D’Amaro as the new CEO of The Walt Disney Company, but the “D’Amaro Era” has officially begun with a lightning bolt. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Imagineering community and Disney fandom alike, the first major executive order from the new chief is a total pivot on the most anticipated project in Magic Kingdom history: Villains Land.
According to a social media rumor, the original blueprints for the “Beyond Big Thunder” expansion have been sent back to the drawing board. D’Amaro isn’t just tweaking the edges; he is reportedly revamping the entire Land to increase scale, technological integration, and—most importantly—thrill factor.
Here is everything we know about why the original Villains Land plans were scrapped, what the new “D’Amaro Vision” looks like, and what this means for the future of Walt Disney World.
1. The “Blue Sky” Problem: Why the Original Plans Weren’t Enough
When Villains Land was first “teased” at D23, it was a collection of brooding concept art and atmospheric promises. However, as the project moved into the early stages of site preparation (internally known as Project SNK), the new executive leadership’s feedback was clear: the original plan was too safe.
The initial concepts reportedly leaned heavily on atmospheric walk-throughs and a single high-capacity boat ride. While “spooky,” it lacked the “E-Ticket” punch required to compete with Universal’s Dark Universe at Epic Universe.
By scrapping the current plans, D’Amaro is signaling that “good enough” is no longer the standard for the Magic Kingdom. The new CEO is reportedly pushing for a land that isn’t just a sub-section of Frontierland, but a “Third Gate-level” immersive experience that can anchor the park for the next fifty years.
2. The D’Amaro Touch: More Thrills, Less “Fluff”
Josh D’Amaro has long been known as the “Parks Guy.” His tenure as Chairman of Disney Experiences was defined by a willingness to listen to fan feedback—and the loudest feedback has always been a demand for more sophisticated, high-thrill attractions.
The Rumored New Anchors
According to the latest rumors fueled by online speculation, the revamped Villains Land will now likely feature:
- A High-Speed Coaster: To balance the Magic Kingdom’s family-friendly lineup, the new plans reportedly include a high-intensity thrill ride—possibly themed to Chernabog or Maleficent—that utilizes next-generation launch technology.
- Interactive Dark Ride 2.0: Instead of a traditional boat ride, Imagineering is now looking at “trackless” technology combined with practical physical effects, moving away from the “screen-heavy” designs of the late 2010s.
- The “Lair” Concept: D’Amaro is reportedly pushing for a more vertical land design, with the “Villains Castle” serving as a multi-level hub featuring dining, retail, and an indoor theater show that rivals the scale of Festival of the Lion King.
3. The SEO Impact: Why “Project SNK” is Trending
From an SEO perspective, the term “Villains Land Disney World” has been a top-tier keyword for years. However, the search volume for “Josh D’Amaro CEO moves” and “Disney Villains Land scrapped” has skyrocketed in the last 48 hours.
By making this his first significant move, D’Amaro is effectively “resetting the clock” on expectations. For Disney, this is a strategic PR win. It shifts the conversation from “When will it open?” to “How incredible will it be?” This narrative change allows Disney to justify the $60 billion investment plan by showing they are willing to spend more to get the creative details right.
4. The Timeline: Does This Mean a Delay?
The million-dollar question for fans is: Does scrapping the plans mean we have to wait longer?
In the short term, the answer is likely yes. If the structural steel and foundation work (as seen in recent aerials) need to be modified to support heavier ride systems or more complex buildings, the opening date for Villains Land—previously estimated for 2029—could slide to 2030 or 2031.
However, insiders suggest that D’Amaro has also ordered an “acceleration” of the workforce. By increasing the construction budget and moving to 24-hour work shifts, Disney hopes to make up the time lost during the redesign phase. The goal is to ensure that when Villains Land finally opens, it is a “finished masterpiece” rather than a project that feels “value-engineered.”
5. Why This Move Defines D’Amaro’s Leadership
For years, Bob Iger was seen as the “Architect of Acquisitions” (Marvel, Lucasfilm, Fox). Josh D’Amaro wants to be seen as the “Architect of the Guest Experience.”
By rejecting the original, more conservative Villains Land plans, D’Amaro is telling Imagineering that he is willing to be their biggest advocate—and their toughest critic. He understands that in the 2026 theme park landscape, immersion is the only currency that matters.
This move also draws a sharp line between him and his predecessors. While Bob Chapek was often criticized for “nickel-and-diming” the parks, D’Amaro is starting his tenure by saying, “Spend more, build bigger, make it darker.”
6. What to Watch for Next
As we move into the Summer of 2026, keep your eyes on the “Beyond Big Thunder” site.
- Permit Filings: Look for new “Notice of Commencement” filings that mention “foundation modifications.” This will confirm that the building footprints are changing to accommodate larger ride systems.
- Concept Art Updates: Expect a surprise announcement at the next major Disney fan event, where D’Amaro will likely unveil the “New Vision” for the Land, complete with the high-thrill attractions fans have been begging for.
Conclusion: The Darkest Kingdom is Getting Bigger
The “scrapping” of the original Villains Land plans isn’t a sign of trouble; it’s a sign of ambition. Under Josh D’Amaro’s leadership, Disney isn’t just building a new land—they are attempting to build the definitive theme park experience of the decade.
The villains are known for their grand, over-the-top schemes. It seems only fitting that their new home at the Magic Kingdom is being redesigned to be just as legendary as they are.
What do you think of Josh D’Amaro’s first move? Are you happy to wait longer for a better Villains Land, or did you want the original version sooner? Let us know in the comments!