Fans Upset After Disney Cuts Dozens of Characters From Performance Roster

in Disneyland Resort, Events, Featured

Tiana and Naveen dressed in their finest gear dancing together.

Credit: Disney

As Disneyland Resort gears up for the highly anticipated Sweethearts’ Nite events in 2025, many guests are voicing their disappointment with the lineup of characters announced so far. Known for its romantic ambiance and exclusive character meet-and-greets, Sweethearts’ Nite has become a cherished tradition for Disney fans. However, this year’s list of confirmed characters has left some attendees feeling underwhelmed.

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Sweethearts Nites' heart poster
Credit: Disney

Guests Left Disappointed After List is Revealed

For many guests, the rare character appearances are what make Sweethearts’ Nite worth the cost of admission. The event typically offers opportunities to meet Disney characters not commonly seen in the parks, creating a unique experience for fans and collectors alike. This year’s confirmed character list includes:

  • Donald Duck and Daisy Duck
  • Louis (from The Princess and the Frog)
  • Constance Hathaway (the bride from The Haunted Mansion)
  • Winnie the Pooh
  • Indiana Jones and Marion Ravenwood
  • Clarabelle Cow and Horace Horsecollar
  • Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse
  • Princess Leia and Han Solo
  • Space Couple

While the lineup features a mix of classic and niche characters, some fans feel it lacks the variety and exclusivity seen in previous years. One guest expressed their frustration on social media, saying,

“The list sucks… not many characters listed like last year’s. Hoping that this is only a teaser and that there will be more characters out than the ones listed.”

Similar sentiments have been echoed by others, with fans reminiscing about the more expansive and surprising character rosters of past events.

Sweetheart’s nite 2025 character list
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Can Fans Expect More?

Last year, the Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite at Disneyland Park event had dozens more characters featured. The full list of characters was:

  • Cinderella and Prince Charming
  • Jasmine and Aladdin
  • Aurora and Prince Phillip
  • Rapunzel and Flynn Rider
  • Drizella, Anastasia, and Lady Tremaine
  • Grand Duke
  • Fairy Godmother
  • Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse
  • Daisy Duck and Donald Duck
  • Mary Poppins and Bert
  • Big Al
  • Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde
  • Ariel and Prince Eric
  • Belle, The Beast, and Gaston
  • Esmeralda and Phoebus
  • Flik and Atta
  • Mulan and Shang
  • Peter Pan and Wendy
  • Snow White and The Prince
  • Clarabelle Cow and Horace Horsecollar
  • Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen
  • Space Couple
  • Chip, Dale, and Clarice
  • Indiana Jones and Marion
  • Chewbacca and Rey
  • Stormtroopers
A map of Disneyland after hours event, sweethearts nite, on main street, u.s.a.
Credit: Disney Parks Blog

Despite the criticism, Disneyland has yet to confirm whether this is the final list of characters or just a preview. In past years, Disney has been known to add surprise appearances closer to the event or even on the event nights themselves. However, with ticket prices continuing to rise, guests are setting higher expectations for unique experiences and offerings.

Sweethearts’ Nite, part of the Disneyland After Dark series, offers an enchanting evening with themed photo opportunities, live entertainment, and access to select attractions. For couples and Disney enthusiasts, it’s a chance to celebrate love in the most magical way possible. Yet, without a robust lineup of rare characters, some worry the event may not deliver the magic they’ve come to expect.

Disneyland has not responded to requests for comment regarding the character lineup or whether additional announcements are forthcoming. As the first Sweethearts’ Nite approaches, many are holding onto hope that the event will still provide surprises and memorable moments that justify its premium price tag.

in Disneyland Resort, Events, Featured

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