Splash Mountain Being Rebranded Due to ‘Song of the South’ Racism Controversy
ORLANDO (FLV) – Disney World’s iconic ride, Splash Mountain, will reportedly close January 23, 2023 to undergo renovations following ongoing controversy over the ride’s “depictions of race.”
The ride is based from the film Song of the South from 1946 and has been running since 1989.
“I’ve felt, as long as I’ve been CEO, that ‘Song of the South’ was — even with a disclaimer — just not appropriate in today’s world,” CEO Bob Iger previously said in 2020.
One Twitter user said, “Here’s the thing, when I first heard Splash Mountain was on its way out a while back my first impression was ‘oh I guess that’s a bummer’ but then I learned it was a Song of the South themed ride and immediately switched to ‘oh burn it down 33 years ago,’ it’s not that hard.”
Splash Mountain will become Tiana’s Bayou Adventure which is based on the 2009 film “Princess and the Frog.”
Disney says Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will “take you on a journey inspired by the story and characters from the hit film, picking up where that story left off.”
The ride description continues, “In Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, you’ll join Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis during Mardi Gras season as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration for the people of New Orleans. This new scene is the thrilling moment you first drop into the bayou and encounter some friends both new and familiar.”
The company says additional information about Splash Mountain at Disneyland will be shared at a later date.
According to the website, the ride will open sometime in 2024.
Click here to view a preview of the ride’s design concepts.
