Disney Keeps Promise to Preserve Muppet Vision 3D

The recent news that the Muppet Courtyard has a closing date was not the best news, but Muppet fans rejoice! Disney now promises to preserve this classic film.

Origin of Muppet Vision 3D

Disney’s Hollywood Studios has undergone many changes over the years. With the removal of The Great Movie Ride, The Studio Backlot Tour, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure, to name a few classics, the original idea of MGM Studios serving as a window into “Old Hollywood” has changed.

Muppet Vision 3D was the final major project that Jim Henson directed before he passed in 1990. It originally opened on May 16, 1991.

Jim Henson created a special character, Waldo C. Graphic, the spirit of 3D that can change into many different characters. This first appeared in the Jim Henson Hour on NBC and was later included in Muppet Vision 3D.

Promise to Preserve

This film is special to many Muppet and Disney fans who have enjoyed it for several decades and as a final masterpiece created by Jim Henson. I (Donna) remember seeing this film during my very first Walt Disney World vacation back in June 1991. My mom still reminisces when Mickey Mouse appears at the very end.

When Disney originally shared that the Muppet Courtyard would close to make room for a Monsters Inc.-themed land, this news was somewhat bittersweet. Disney now made a statement that gives us hope for Muppet Vision 3D.

“As we move forward with these changes, we are having creative conversations and exploring ways to preserve the film and other parts of the experience for fans to enjoy in the future.” We do not know if this film will be preserved in the Disney Parks or possibly added to Disney+. We are just thankful that a plan to maintain this film is on the table.

Previously, Disney said, “We will try to preserve elements of this attraction in the future,” but this new announcement implies an active plan as the closing date looms before us.

Future of the Muppets

For now, Disney has shared that the Muppets will relocate within Disney’s Hollywood Studios with a retheme of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. Disney has not announced when Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will close for this change.

“As we move forward with these changes, we are having creative conversations and exploring ways to preserve the film and other parts of the experience for fans to enjoy in the future.”

Along with the Muppet Vision 3D film are fun animatronics, a special visit from Sweetums, and fun 3D effects. It will be interesting to see how Disney may help to include these elements in preserving this classic film.

How do you think Disney will preserve this film for years to come? Share your thoughts with us, and share this news with your Disney pals.