Disney Recasts Viral 'Tally the Elf' for Holiday Parade at Magic Kingdom

Unexplained by Disney, the switch has refocused attention on performer privacy and the company’s emphasis on character anonymity.

Overview

The once-viral parade character has returned to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party now portrayed by a female cast member.
Guests at the first party of the season reported the change after seeing the updated Tally during the parade.
Early clips suggest the costume and choreography remain consistent, preserving the character’s high-energy style.
Reaction online has been split, with some fans disappointed by the change and others supportive of continuing the role.
Observers and fans speculate the move relates to last year’s intense social-media attention to the original performer, and Disney has not commented.