As Disney Seemingly Gauges Interest In Bringing The Simpsons To The Parks, There Are Reasons I Don’t Think It’s A Good Idea

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Walt Disney’s quote that “Disneyland will never be finished” holds as much relevance today as it did when he first said it over 60 years ago. This year marks a significant anniversary for the original theme park, and there are ambitious expansion plans in store for Walt Disney World in Orlando, making this statement truer than ever.

Enthusiasts sometimes have differing opinions regarding park updates, but it’s always thrilling to watch the company innovate by integrating fresh concepts and cherished intellectual properties into the world’s most remarkable amusement parks. Recent surveys conducted among guests in December 2024 hint that The Walt Disney Company might be considering introducing “The Simpsons” across its theme parks, and honestly, I’m not entirely convinced by this proposal.

How Disney Parks Is Apparently Gauging Interest In The Simpsons

As a dedicated Disneyland enthusiast, for years, I’ve looked forward to the surveys that follow my visits to the House of Mouse’s captivating theme parks. These questionnaires, while differing in length and questions, are all designed to gauge my experience within these magical realms and identify areas for enhancement. I cherish these surveys not only for the insights they offer into my own journey but also because they occasionally hint at exciting new concepts brewing among the brilliant minds of the Imagineers. For instance, they might seek feedback on the possibility of bringing the beloved Springfield family from our favorite animated series to life within the theme parks.

Drew Smith, a user who often posts news about the Walt Disney Company, was among the first to announce this in December. He posted a screenshot of a recent survey question aimed at consumers. The question asked whether they’d prefer the parks to incorporate elements from The Simpsons, such as more short-form content, an episode from the popular series that has gone beyond 10 seasons, character interactions within the theme parks, or even a new area or attraction.

Of course, there are numerous options available in this situation. But just because Disney, known for its beloved characters, has the ability to act on these opportunities, it doesn’t necessarily follow that they ought to.

Why I Don’t Think Adding The Simpsons Is A Good Idea

While it’s heartwarming to witness Walt Disney’s vision for the theme parks being upheld, I find myself struggling with the thought of integrating “The Simpsons” into these locations. The essence of the popular animated series appears incongruous with the ambiance of the existing Disney parks globally.

My primary worry, should Disney proceed with this plan, revolves around a single crucial point: How would they deploy the characters? The existing Disneyland is quite congested, and I struggle to envision The Simpsons or their kin fitting into any of its themed zones. It’s possible that they could be incorporated into Disney California Adventure Park’s Hollywood Land, but given whispers of it being razed for the upcoming Avatar land, this seems unlikely.

It’s unlikely that “The Simpsons” will be featured in any international theme parks. This narrows down the options to either the Disneyland Forward project or one of the four Walt Disney World parks for a complete land or attraction. With numerous new attractions being introduced to the four parks, I find it hard to believe this will occur anytime soon. Without a dedicated land, I’m unsure where the Simpson family could interact with guests without conflicting with the themes of the current areas.

It’s worth questioning why Disney Parks would consider creating a Simpsons-themed land and attraction when Universal Studios already has one, established on both coasts. After all, investing in a concept that’s been with their competitor for years seems unusual. With Universal reportedly renegotiating their contract, set to expire in 2028, there’s a strong likelihood that the popular Krustyland section of their parks could undergo changes if Disney decides to secure the theme park rights themselves.

I’m keeping my fingers crossed that The Mouse House won’t find a spot for The Simpsons in their theme parks and instead let Universal continue as the go-to place for fans to engage with their beloved characters. For now, you can enjoy the iconic animated series by streaming it through a Disney+ subscription.

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2025-01-08 05:37