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Disneyland Debuts Lifelike Walt Disney Animatronic For 70th Anniversary

Division over the animatronic’s facial authenticity has accompanied widespread admiration for its intricate articulation.

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Early Audio-Animatronics from "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "It's a Small World" are on display inside the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland.

Overview

  • The figure premiered July 17 in the Main Street Opera House with a virtual-queue system and alternates showings with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.”
  • Engineers integrated dozens of articulated joints and archival recordings to replicate Walt Disney’s gestures, expressions and voice.
  • Chairman Josh D’Amaro praised the attraction as a fitting tribute to Walt Disney and an inspiration for guests of all ages.
  • Granddaughter Joanna Miller condemned the creation as disrespectful while several other descendants and Disney leadership defended its realism.
  • Parkgoers and online users posted both emotional reactions and critiques, applauding the animatronic’s motion yet questioning its facial likeness.