Disneyland revealed a first look Monday at the updated Jungle Cruise attraction at both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, adding that the new adventures "reflect and value the diversity of the world around us."
The story update comes after complaints that the ride -- which was originally built in 1955 -- is racially insensitive.
"As Imagineers, it is our responsibility to ensure experiences we create and stories we share reflect the voices and perspectives of the world around us," said Carmen Smith, Executive, Creative Development & Inclusion Strategies, Walt Disney Imagineering.
As part of the update, guests will follow a skipper and his passengers as their journey goes awry. For the first time, the skipper role will be a live, experienced and witty guide, a news release said.
“When we consider making changes to a classic attraction, we focus on ways to ‘plus’ the experience,” said Chris Beatty, creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering. “The skippers of the Jungle Cruise bring irreverent humor to guests of all ages, and we’re excited to be adding to that legacy – along with a new animated skipper figure – by celebrating their adventures and influence.”
Recently, Imagineers had the chance to provide a sneak peek to a few skippers at Magic Kingdom park – check out the Walt Disney World Ambassador team on Instagram, @WDW.Ambassador, to see additional reactions, and stay tuned for more details about the enhancements in store for the Jungle Cruise, coming later this year.
