In 1989, Disney’s Splash Mountain opened to widespread acclaim and became a fan-favorite attraction due to its unique design and immersive storytelling. However, its source material, inspired by the controversial film Song of the South, led to calls for its removal amid the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. In response, Disney announced plans to retheme the ride as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, based on the animated film The Princess and the Frog.
The announcement of the retheme was accompanied by lush concept art, but the actual ride fell short of expectations. Disney released a ride-through video that received negative feedback from fans, citing confusing storytelling and lackluster music. The public backlash continued after the ride opened, with reports of breakdowns and underwhelming experiences for visitors. This negative reception has damaged Disney’s reputation and could make Tiana’s Bayou Adventure one of the costliest theme park rides in Disney’s history.
While Disney does not disclose the exact cost of individual attractions, recent revelations from Disneyland Paris’ Avengers Campus budget have shed light on the potential cost of retheming an iconic ride like Splash Mountain. Disney reportedly spent $71 million on the transformation of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, including extensive updates to decor, audio-animatronics, and new songs. The total spent over the past four years on the ride could exceed $142 million, making it a significant investment for the company.
The negative reception to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure comes at a challenging time for Disney, as attendance at its theme parks has decreased due to post-COVID travel moderation. Additionally, reports of thin crowds at Disney World have raised concerns about the company’s financial outlook for the summer season. The underperformance of the new ride may have contributed to these challenges, further highlighting the importance of delivering high-quality attractions to attract visitors.
Despite the backlash, Disney has continued to pursue rethemed attractions at its parks, with mixed results. The company’s decision to update Splash Mountain to reflect more inclusive storytelling aligns with ongoing efforts to promote diversity and representation in its parks. However, the execution of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has drawn criticism for its confusing premise and lackluster presentation, indicating the need for careful planning and execution when retheming iconic rides.
Moving forward, Disney will need to address the challenges facing Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and other rethemed attractions to ensure their success. By learning from past mistakes and listening to feedback from fans, the company can create engaging and immersive experiences that appeal to a diverse audience. As Disney navigates the evolving landscape of theme park entertainment, the success of its rethemed attractions will be crucial to maintaining its reputation as a leader in the industry.
