Disney World announces a brand-new villain show in Hollywood Studios

Disney World has unveiled an exciting new addition for Hollywood Studios: the popular “Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy” will be replaced by an entirely new show centered around iconic Disney villains, set to debut in the fall of 2025. This announcement follows extensive plans to further integrate the “Cars” franchise and an entirely new villains' land into the Disney parks.

“Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy” closes in 2025

The “Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy,” a family favorite, will close later this year. In its place, the “Sunset Showcase” at Hollywood Studios will host a brand-new villain show, set to premiere in 2025. This live production will feature some of Disney’s most infamous villains, who will make their entrance through the legendary magic mirror.

The main characters and plot of the new show

At the heart of the new stage show are iconic Disney villains such as Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent. These characters will emerge through the magic mirror into the “Sunset Showcase,” joined by over a dozen other villains, promising a dark and thrilling entertainment experience. The show is expected to captivate audiences not only with its well-known characters but also with impressive special effects and elaborate staging.

New villains and “Cars” areas in Magic Kingdom

This new development is part of a larger transformation across Disney parks. In addition to the villain show in Hollywood Studios, an entirely new “Cars” area is being developed in Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, on the current site of Tom Sawyer Island. Simultaneously, a dedicated villain-themed land will be constructed. Both attractions aim to enhance the Disney Park offerings with exciting, action-packed experiences.

Disney fans can look forward to a year of change and new experiences. The final performances of “Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy” are sure to be an emotional farewell for many visitors, before the curtain falls and the villains take the stage.

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