Disney’s Splash Mountain Gets a Fresh (and Fun) Make‑over
Walt Disney Co. just dropped some exciting news: the beloved Splash Mountain will be revamped to feature Tiana, the first Black princess from the 2009 hit “The Princess and the Frog“.
Why the Change?
- The current ride is based on the 1946 film Song of the South, which has drawn criticism for its racist stereotypes.
- Fans and activists have pushed back, rallying on platforms like Change.org to call for a reboot.
- Disney said the new version will be “completely reimagined,” with Tiana gearing up for a Mardi Gras performance.
A New Storyline
The blog post promises that the new ride will be all about Tiana’s courage and dreams. “She’s modern, bold, and never loses sight of what truly matters,” Disney wrote. The backdrop? A vibrant, soul‑laden New Orleans and the mysterious Louisiana bayou.
The Bigger Picture
In the wake of George Floyd’s tragic death and a surge in grassroots calls for racial justice, many Hollywood studios—including Disney—are re‑examining classic works that might no longer sit well with modern audiences.
What Fans Are Saying
“Splash Mountain was a beloved classic,” critics point out, “but its roots in ‘Song of the South’ carry deeply harmful stereotypes.” The upcoming shift aims to honor the park’s heritage while moving in a direction that feels respectful and inclusive.
