Disney’s Hollywood Studios is gearing up for a villainous transformation as Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy has made its final lap. The Cars-themed attraction is now permanently closed, with its last day of operation on October 7, 2024. An exciting new Disney Villains stage show is set to take over the space, with a scheduled debut in Summer 2025.
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy first opened its doors on March 31, 2019, as part of Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ 30th anniversary celebration. Located in the Sunset Showcase near Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, this 10-minute show featured an impressive animatronic of the beloved Cars character, Lightning McQueen.
The attraction immersed guests in the world of Radiator Springs, with a massive 200-foot wrap-around screen bringing the action to life. Visitors took on the role of rookie racers, learning the ins and outs of racing from Lightning himself, with appearances from fan-favorite characters like Tow Mater and Cruz Ramirez.
While the show was well-liked, the upcoming addition of a Cars land to Magic Kingdom means Lightning will be finding a new home. Additionally, the attraction was buried at the end of Disney’s Hollywood Studios past Sunset Blvd. and adult-oriented offerings like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith.
A Villainous Takeover
As Lightning McQueen takes his final spin, Disney is revving up for something delightfully wicked. The new Disney Villains stage show will transform the Sunset Showcase into the mysterious realm of the Magic Mirror, made famous in “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”
This new production – rumored to be named “Forces of Evil” – promises to showcase dozens of Disney’s most infamous evildoers. Guests can expect to see fiendish foes like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent breaking through the glass to take center stage in live performances.
What to Expect from the New Show
While specific details are still under wraps, Disney has revealed that the show will feature:
- A large cast of Disney Villains, with at least three live performers
- State-of-the-art technology, including the use of the existing wrap-around screen
- Musical numbers featuring songs from classic Disney films
- An immersive experience that pulls the audience into the villains’ world
This new addition aligns with Disney’s broader plans to expand its villains-themed offerings. It serves as a precursor to the highly anticipated Villains Land coming to Magic Kingdom in the future, giving fans a taste of what’s to come.
Impact on Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The introduction of this villainous spectacular is part of a larger transformation happening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With recent additions like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land, the park continues to evolve and offer fresh experiences for guests.
This new show also better complements existing attractions in the Sunset Boulevard area, potentially creating a villains-themed corridor alongside the Tower of Terror.
Looking Ahead
As we bid farewell to Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, Disney fans have much to look forward to. The new Disney Villains show promises to be a wickedly fun addition to Hollywood Studios, offering a unique blend of beloved characters, cutting-edge technology, and Disney magic.
Check back here at MainGatePass.com and follow us on X (Twitter) for the latest Disney Parks news & updates.
