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Credit: UniversalUniversal has leaned into nostalgia more than ever over the past year, and longtime theme park fans have definitely noticed. From celebrating attractions and entertainment that helped define the resort’s history to bringing familiar styles back into the spotlight, Universal has shown that it isn’t afraid to embrace the experiences that built its fanbase.
Now, guests visiting Universal Orlando Resort can enjoy another throwback-inspired addition. The latest arrival continues the resort’s growing appreciation for its past while giving visitors a fun new way to celebrate one of Universal’s most beloved classics.
Universal Continues Celebrating Its Past
Universal has spent much of the past year reminding fans that its history remains an important part of the resort’s identity. While Epic Universe has introduced entirely new worlds and attractions, Universal Studios Florida has also embraced the attractions, characters, and entertainment that longtime visitors remember most.
Retro-themed events have become increasingly common across the resort. Tribute-style experiences have celebrated Universal’s legacy, while anniversary offerings have looked back at attractions and entertainment that helped shape the park over the decades.
The resort has also leaned into nostalgic entertainment. Parade celebrations have featured classic Universal characters alongside newer favorites, creating a mix of old and new that appeals to multiple generations of guests. For longtime visitors, it’s been a welcome reminder that many of Universal’s most recognizable icons still have a place inside the parks.
That appreciation has extended beyond entertainment as well. Universal has continued to release retro-inspired merchandise collections featuring vintage logos, classic artwork, and designs that pay tribute to the resort’s early years. Instead of focusing solely on current intellectual property, the company has increasingly recognized that guests enjoy celebrating Universal’s history.
That trend doesn’t appear to be slowing down. In fact, the newest addition continues that nostalgic direction in a way that many longtime fans will immediately recognize.
E.T. Gets an Exciting Update
Universal Orlando Resort has now introduced a brand-new E.T. Shoulder Buddy, giving one of the park’s most beloved characters another moment in the spotlight.
The new plush is designed to sit on a guest’s shoulder using a magnetic attachment, making it easy to wear throughout the day inside the parks. While shoulder buddies have become popular across Universal’s merchandise lineup, this newest version stands out because it features one of the resort’s most iconic characters.
The miniature plush shows E.T. wearing his famous red hoodie and extending his glowing finger, recreating one of the film’s most memorable looks. Despite its compact size, the plush includes several recognizable details that fans of the character will instantly appreciate.
For many guests, E.T. remains one of Universal’s defining icons. The character has welcomed visitors for generations through E.T. Adventure, one of the few opening-day attractions still operating at Universal Studios Florida. The ride continues to attract both first-time visitors and longtime fans who return specifically to experience its nostalgic storytelling.
The new Shoulder Buddy fits perfectly into Universal’s recent focus on celebrating classic characters. Rather than introducing another collectible based solely on newer franchises, the resort has once again turned to one of its most recognizable legacy properties.
New ET shoulder buddy available for $25. @UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/45YaFwzrRz
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) August 7, 2026
More Nostalgia Could Be on the Way
Universal’s renewed focus on its past has also fueled speculation about what could happen next inside Universal Studios Florida.
One of the biggest topics among fans involves the future of Fast & Furious – Supercharged. Universal has already confirmed that the attraction will close permanently, with the final day to ride scheduled for August 16, before it officially closes on August 17.
Although Universal has not announced what will replace the attraction, plenty of rumors continue circulating within the theme park community.
Many fans hope the replacement will embrace another classic Universal property instead of a newer franchise. Among the most frequently mentioned possibilities are Back to the Future (1985), Ghostbusters (1984), and Twister (1996), each of which has longstanding connections to Universal’s history.
At this point, those ideas remain speculation. Universal has not confirmed any replacement theme or revealed what attraction will eventually occupy the large show building. Still, the conversation reflects the enthusiasm for bringing more legacy experiences back into the park.
Considering the resort’s recent emphasis on retro celebrations, vintage merchandise, and classic characters, it’s easy to understand why fans continue connecting those rumors to Universal’s broader direction.
Nostalgia Remains Part of Universal’s Future
Universal continues expanding with ambitious new experiences, but it also seems increasingly interested in honoring the attractions and characters that built its reputation over the decades.
The new E.T. Shoulder Buddy may be a relatively small addition, yet it fits neatly into that larger strategy. Whether through collectible merchandise, nostalgic entertainment, or celebrations of classic park history, Universal has found ways to remind longtime guests why they fell in love with the resort in the first place.
With rumors continuing about future attraction replacements and more retro-inspired offerings appearing throughout the parks, nostalgia doesn’t look like it’s fading anytime soon. For fans who enjoy seeing Universal celebrate its own history, that’s likely welcome news—and the latest E.T. release is another sign that plenty of classic favorites still have an important place at Universal Orlando Resort.
