As a seasoned movie buff who has grown up with the magic of Disney, I have always cherished their timeless stories and the memories they evoke. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that even the most beloved tales may carry outdated or offensive elements that don’t align with modern sensibilities.
In response to repeated demands for change regarding offensive representations in their attractions and films, Disney is implementing a substantial modification to one of its theme-park rides. One of Disney World’s busiest rides at Magic Kingdom, Peter Pan’s Flight, has undergone refurbishment and now sports an important change. Unlike the original version in Disneyland, which didn’t include Peter Pan or Native Americans, these characters were added to the Magic Kingdom ride in 1971 and have been a fixture there since. However, this is no longer the case as the ride has returned from refurbishment without them.
As reported by Deadline, the revamped version of the ride at Disney World has been altered to eliminate outdated stereotypes. The refreshed look includes a more accurate portrayal of Native Americans within a realistic setting. The iconic character, the Chief with his headdress, has been eliminated entirely, and Tiger Lily is now shown in a kinder light, celebrating alongside her grandmother and other members of the Never Land Tribe. Disney officially announced these changes, describing them as an update aimed at enhancing authenticity.
“A tranquil lagoon merges into a mountain village inhabited by the Never Land Tribe, whose colorful teepees create a stunning backdrop for their harvest festival. Here, Tiger Lily and her grandmother elegantly perform the traditional Fancy Shawl Butterfly Dance near the fire, encapsulating the lively essence of the event.”
Disney Has Updated Several Theme Park Rides Over the Years
At the Magic Kingdom and soon at Disneyland, Disney is revamping Peter Pan’s Flight, but this isn’t their only recent change. Some rides across Disney Parks have stirred up controversy due to outdated portrayals seen as racially insensitive or offensive, prompting modifications in response.
1. The Jungle Cruise is an exciting adventure ride where you journey through various parts of the world with lifelike animal figures. In one part of the ride, there’s a scene showing Native people being pursued and hiding in trees. Meanwhile, Pirates of the Caribbean, located in Adventureland, has eliminated a segment that portrayed women being auctioned off.
More recently, a significant shift has been observed with Splash Mountain being reimagined as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. The previous theme was inspired by the 1940s movie “Song of the South,” which due to its racial undertones, is not available on Disney+. Instead, this summer saw the debut of the Princess and the Frog-themed version of the ride, complete with new tunes from characters like Tiana, Mama Odie, and their swamp companions.
Disney World’s revamped Peter Pan’s Flight is already operational, whereas Disneyland will incorporate the same changes once their ride resumes operation. Since its debut in 1955, Disneyland’s Peter Pan ride has been a long-standing attraction, but it’s important to note that the original didn’t feature the Never Land Tribe. The updated version from the 1980s, however, introduced stereotypical depictions that some found racially insensitive.
Peter Pan
is available to stream on Disney+
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2024-08-22 19:01