Young Rhino Dies At Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks

Cast Members at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom theme park in Orlando sadly revealed the passing of Dugan, one of its white rhinoceroses. Dugan moved to Animal Kingdom in 2018 and lived a five-year residency in view of Disney Parks Guests. Animal Kingdom Cast Members take the care of their animals very seriously, and they worked to give Dugan the best life possible while also helping to repopulate the white rhino species.

White rhinos were endangered, but according to the World Wildlife Fund, “After more than a century of protection and management, they are now classified as Near Threatened.” Approximately 18,000 live in protected areas and reserves, and luckily white rhinos are the only rhino species not considered endangered.

Disney’s commitment to nature and the environment is contributing to keeping the white rhino population up. Before Dugan passed away, he fathered three offspring named Logan, Mylo, and Ranger. This was possible through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, where animals are managed away from the wild to establish and achieve population goals. The overall goal is to create biologically sound populations for animals that are struggling.

Animals like Dugan help create a discourse about environmentalism, conservation, and the different creatures of the world. During his time at Animal Kingdom, Dugan helped Guests learn facts about white rhinos, such as they are Earth’s second-largest land animal, come from Africa, love savanna areas in grasslands, and that a group of rhinos is called a herd or a crash.

While white rhinos can live up to 40 – 50 years, Dugan lived only to the age of 28. Before coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, he was born at the Knoxville Zoo in Tennessee, and later moved to the Erie Zoo in Pennsylvania. He passed away on the morning of June 1.

dugan white rhino dead animal kingdom disney world baby rhino mylo ranger logan

Through the Species Survival Plan, including animal nutrition, endocrinology, vet care, and animal care/training, Disney Parks is doing its part to assist the responsible breeding of in-need animal species. Thanks to animals like Dugan, Guests can continue to enjoy the beautiful white rhinoceros and learn about keeping the population alive for future generations of people as well as animals.

Disney Finally Breaks Silence, Reveals Johnny Depp’s Future as Captain Jack Sparrow

Posted on by Mathew Corn Uncategorized

Johnny Depp may not be done as Captain Jack Sparrow, after all.

The Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has served as a $4.5 billion money-maker for The Walt Disney Company. The franchise, which has five total movies, has all starred Johnny Depp as the lead protagonist, alongside others like Keira Knightley (Elizabeth Swann Turner) and Orlando Bloom (Will Turner). The last film, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, was released in 2017, and a lot has happened since then.

Disney reportedly turned its back on Johnny Depp amid allegations from his ex-wife Amber Heard saying that the actor had physically and emotionally abused her. The ex-couple underwent two different defamation trials, one in the U.K. and then one in the United States. The defamation trial in the United States concluded last summer and resulted in a resounding victory for Mr Depp over Ms Heard. Though Amber Heard vowed to appeal the decision, she eventually settled with Johnny Depp outside of court, paying the actor $1 million this past December.

Some fans have held out hope that Johnny Depp would return to the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, but the actor revealed during the defamation trial that he wouldn’t return to Disney “for $300 million,” and he has since moved to Europe and is exploring both his music and acting career overseas, with a new movie titled Jeanne Du Barry that was just released at the Cannes Film Festival a couple of weeks ago.

Of course, the elephant in the room has been the question of a reunion. Even though neither side has come out and said that they want to reunite, they both understand that fans want to see it happen. Johnny Depp has made appearances for select fans using his Captain Jack Sparrow persona, but there’s a big difference between bringing out the character every now and then, and actually returning to Disney for a movie.

johnny depp captain jack sparrow

Disney has finally broken the silence on what we could expect in the future for Pirates of the Caribbean 6, including Johnny Depp’s status.

In an interview with the New York Times, Disney Studios Motion Picture Production President Sean Bailey shared that they are excited about the next stages of the franchise.

“We think we have a really good, exciting story that honors the films that have come before but also has something new to say,” he said.

When asked about the status of Johnny Depp for the film, Bailey said that Disney was “noncommittal at this point.”

This is an interesting phrase from Disney, to say the least. The comments do not close the door on a potential return, but they also don’t point to anything guaranteed at this point. Pirates of the Caribbean Producer Jerry Bruckheimer shared in the past that Disney had developed two scripts, neither of which would likely involve Johnny Depp, but that’s to say that the story couldn’t be adjusted or changed, if the two parties were to come to an agreement in the future.

Downtown Disney Announces Delicious New Experiences

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks

We have several tantalizing and tasty new updates to share with you from the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort! This dynamic destination offers something for everyone and will continue to evolve with several exciting new additions. Take a look at what’s new and what’s coming!

Now Open! Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio and Beignets Expressed

For more than two decades, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen has been revered for its warm hospitality, French Quarter flair, bold flavors, and famous, hot beignets! Building on this rich tradition, the iconic restaurant has evolved with a fresh new look, new name and new menu! The location is celebrating its reopening as Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, a modern, casual and fun celebration of the Gulf and Pacific coasts, and Beignets Expressed.

The restaurant’s all-day menu features long-time fan favorites alongside new selections such as Lobster & Crawfish Sliders, Chile-Spiced Honey Glazed Grilled Salmon, Gumbo LA-LA filled with succulent seafood, the Grilled Open Faced Lobster BLT Po-Boy and the Reef & Beef, a delectable entrée of grilled shrimp and braised short ribs. This contemporary menu pairs perfectly with a newly expanded wine list from California vintners, and seasonal, seaside-style cocktails.

And let’s not forget the famous beignets! Beignets Expressed is a fast, friendly, and fun counter-service spot, bestowing the much-loved New Orleans confection served classically (fried and topped with heaping mounds of powdered sugar) and the specialty glazed beignets, dipped, drizzled, and sprinkled in infinitely delicious flavors. Signature and seasonal glazed selections include Snickerdoodle, Fruity Crunch and Bananas Foster.

New! Clyde’s Hot Chicken

Have your clients had a chance to taste Clyde’s Hot Chicken yet? It’s a new cart located in the district near the Disneyland Monorail that serves scrumptious Nashville hot chicken on a stick, handmade fresh daily and available in three different heat level seasonings. If guests really want to turn it up a notch, they can try the Hot as Cali with cayenne and habanero spices!  Wowza!

Coming soon: The Alley!

The courtyard next to Splitsville Luxury Lanes is being transformed into an exciting space — The Alley — with interactive games, live music, lounge areas and seats for dining. This summer, your clients can relax, play games and create memories in this fun new spot, and enjoy all the delicious food and beverage offerings from Splitsville.

Shopping is always on the menu in the district! Disney Home and WonderGround Gallery have recently reopened with unique selections of Disney décor. Down the way, guets can pop in to Lovepop for the coolest 3D pop-up cards, and Pelé Soccer for the latest in soccer gear and apparel.

It’s an exciting time as Downtown Disney District continues to be reimagined with new dining, shopping and entertainment experiences, along with long-time favorites throughout the promenade. Future plans for the district also include the addition of Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned Chinese restaurant known for its soup dumplings and noodles, plus masterful Mexican cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán at Paseo and Céntrico, and the oh-so-yummy California-Cuban cheese rolls and pastries from Porto’s Bakery and Cafe. 

Festive Foodie Guide to the Return of Halfway to the Holidays

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Disney Resorts

Happy Halfway to the Holidays…well, almost! Summer officially starts next week, which means it’s that time of year to start the countdown to the holidays. From June 13 through 15, celebrate #HalfwaytotheHolidays with us as we give you a taste of the season with announcements, sneak peeks, special treats and of course holiday fun. To prepare for all the festive fun, we’re kicking off with our Halfway to the Holidays Foodie Guide.

One of the best parts of the holidays is the delicious eats and sips you can indulge in. And what Halfway to the Holidays celebration would be complete without some? At Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, even aboard Disney Cruise Line on the high seas, we’re unwrapping some returning favorites and new delights for this limited time.

Let’s take a peek!

Disneyland Resort

Disney California Adventure Park

Cozy Cone Motel 1 (Available June 13 through 15; mobile order available)

  • Egg Nog Slush with Rumchata topped with whipped cream and sprinkles (New)

Pacific Wharf Café (Available June 13 through 15; mobile order available)

  • Mickey Gingerbread

Downtown Disney District

Kayla’s Cake (Available June 13 through 15)  

  • Gingerbread Man Macaron: Gingerbread man printed macaron with gingerbread buttercream (New)

Walt Disney World Resort

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Gasparilla Island Grill (Available June 13 through 15)

  • Brownie Tree Pop: Returning from the annual Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Gingerbread House, a chocolate brownie dipped in white chocolate with rainbow sprinkles
  • Gingersnap Cookie: Returning from the annual Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Gingerbread House, a traditional gingersnap cookie topped with candied ginger

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy

Joyful Sweets and Sweet on You (Available June 12 through 18 aboard the Disney Wish and June 10 through 17 aboard the Disney Fantasy)

  • Happy Santa Cupcake: Celebration cupcake with vanilla frosting and Christmas sprinkles

 Available on Various Disney Cruise Line Ships

Preludes and Buena Vista Theater:

  • Reindeer Sipper: Available on the following sailings:
    • Disney Fantasy: June 10 through 17
    • Disney Wish: June 12 through 18
    • Disney Wonder: June 12 through 19
    • Disney Magic: June 15 through 19

Preludes, Buena Vista Theater, and Luna Libations (Aboard the Disney Wish):

  • Christmas Rotating Tin Popcorn Bucket with butter-flavored popcorn; available on the following sailings:
    • Disney Fantasy: June 10 through 17
    • Disney Wish: June 12 through 18
    • Disney Wonder: June 12 through 19
    • Disney Magic: June 15 through 19

Cove Café and All Specialty Coffee Locations

  • Holiday Stainless Steel Tumbler: Available on the following sailings:
    • Disney Fantasy: June 10 through 17
    • Disney Wish: June 12 through 18
    • Disney Wonder: June 12 through 19
    • Disney Magic: June 15 through 19

From holidays to everyday excitement, there’s no limit to the fun that can be had at Disney Parks and aboard Disney Cruise Line! Keep your eyes peeled next week for more Halfway to the Holidays announcements.

Happy Halfway to the Holidays!

(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)

Protesters Swarm the Castle During Heated Cast Member Strike

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

A shocking scene took place at a Disney Park

This past year has been turbulent for the Walt Disney Company. Of the many issues that have crossed Disney CEO Bob Iger’s desk this past year, the ongoing Cast Member strikes have been one of the most significant. At numerous Disney Parks worldwide, employees of the Disney Parks have been fighting for higher wages at their jobs.

Earlier this year, those protests gained major news traction and became a huge story. Protests at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort eventually came to a close when Disney agreed to raise the wages for their theme Park Cast Members.

While it might be a happily ever after for Cast Members in the United States, the battle abroad is far from over.

disneyland paris cast member strike blocks main street

Disneyland Paris is a magical place where millions of visitors come every year to see their favorite Disney characters, ride thrilling attractions, and experience unparalleled entertainment. However, behind the scenes, Disney magic is not always as enchanting for the Park’s employees. Recently, the Disneyland Paris Cast Member strike, which started in February of this year, has been making headlines across the world.

The Disneyland Paris Cast Member Strike was ignited when Disney workers in Paris raised their voices to protest the low salaries they earn for such strenuous work. Protesting Cast Members hope to see better working conditions, more pay, and more job security. They claim that Disney management has been unresponsive to their demands, forcing them to go on strike.

Disneyland Paris D-Light

Guests entering Disneyland Paris today were in for quite a sight when they witnessed a massive crowd of protesters swarm Sleeping Beauty Castle. @DLPReport on Twitter explained;

“Striking Disneyland Paris Cast Members are back in Disneyland Park this afternoon. The protest is expected to continue for the rest of the day.”

Hopefully, an agreement between Disneyland Paris and its Cast Members can come soon. As of now, Disney is offering rescheduling for families whose trips have been affected by the protests.