Earlier this week, Disney shared some saddening news, confirming that the previously announced Monsters, Inc. expansion for Hollywood Studios will be going exactly where the current Muppets are housed. As a result, MuppetVision 3D along with PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano will be closing.
The news, especially the closure of MuppetVision 3D, was met with massive disappointment and even some backlash from the biggest Muppets fans. Disney enthusiasts were especially upset with Disney's decision to close MuppetVision 3D as it was Jim Henson's last major creative work before his passing.
Disney did say that they are having "creative conversations and exploring ways to preserve the film and other parts of the experience for fans to enjoy in the future." But right now we're not quite sure what that would look like.
The Muppets are taking over Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, replacing the controversial musician and "teaming up with some of music’s biggest stars for a rockin’ music festival!"
But its the removal of MuppetVision 3D that has fans most upset because it's a timeless classic, even if it's not as popular these days with younger audiences. It's believed that the digitized version could be added to Disney+, or the attraction itself may even move elsewhere (maybe replacing Hall of Presidents in Magic Kingdom?). But as of right now, no one seems to know.
Thankfully, it sounds like we may not have seen the complete end of MuppetVision 3D. Jim Henson Company released a statement on social media, addressing the attraction's closure and hinting at a "next act" for the beloved show.
"Jim Henson’s final project was Muppet*Vision 3D, now regarded as a true theme park classic," the statement reads. "Innovation was always Jim Henson’s north star, and his trailblazing career led him to a unique challenge: a truly immersive Muppet experience where audiences are part of the happy chaos of the iconic Muppet Show."
"Originally debuting in 1991, Muppet*Vision 3D combined 3D technology with real-world practical effects, alongside animatronic and live Muppet characters. The result was a one-of-a-kind Jim Henson experience, and an unforgettable capstone to Jim’s magnificent career," the statement continues. "As we learn of the show’s upcoming closure in its current form at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, we look forward to Muppet*Vision 3D’s next act."
It's unclear what this next act will be, but perhaps an updated version of the performance is in store for fans in the future. There's no denying MuppetVision 3D was dated. The quality of the 3D was subpar compared to today's standards while the show itself could've definitely used an update.
Hopefully whatever Disney has planned for MuppetVision 3D will have the Jim Henson Company involved.