Disney recently surveyed guests about the potential inclusion of The Simpsons in its theme parks. This may be closely tied to swirling rumors that Universal Studios is planning to replace its longstanding Simpsons attractions with Pokémon-themed experiences.
In a new survey, Disney asks Guests about The Walt Disney Company’s brands, franchises, and offerings, including The Simpsons.
The answers include “Character meet & greets at the Disney theme parks” and “New lands or attractions at the Disney theme parks.”
Thoughts? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/d8RwdqjIp5
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) December 27, 2024
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Disney’s recent survey, shared by Disney Parks commentator Drew Smith on X, asks guests, “Which of the following offerings do you want to hear more about from The Simpsons?”
The options include character meet-and-greets at Disney theme parks and the introduction of new lands or attractions inspired by Springfield. This survey comes at a pivotal time, as speculation grows that Universal is considering phasing out its Simpsons-themed areas in favor of more contemporary intellectual properties (IPs), with Pokémon being a frontrunner.
The Simpsons in The Simpsons Movie – YouTube, 20th Century Fox
Currently, The Simpsons Springfield land eats up a lot of space at both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood, where “The Simpsons Ride” has been since replacing Back to The Future in 2008.
These parks feature Springfield-themed lands with shops, dining options, and additional attractions like “Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl.” Despite Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox, which brought The Simpsons under its expansive IP umbrella, Universal has assured fans that its Simpsons attractions would remain unaffected until its licensing agreement expires in 2028.
However, rumors first reported by Alicia Stella of Orlando Theme Park Stop indicate that Universal is eyeing a strategic shift toward more relevant and popular franchises, with Pokémon emerging as a leading candidate.
Pokémon is currently featured heavily in Universal Studios Japan.
NEW VIDEO! Universal Orlando is rumored to get Pokémon, Zelda, and Luigi’s Mansion rides in the next few years, replacing The Simpsons, Lost Continent, and in an expansion to Epic Universe.
Video Version: https://t.co/S6HjkXUNpN
Article Version: https://t.co/WZDnNRA1ow pic.twitter.com/Enf2yAMSmU— Alicia Stella Nova Resort (@AliciaStella) January 11, 2024
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If Universal decides to replace the Simpsons with Pokémon-themed attractions, it would align with the growing global popularity of the Pokémon franchise and offer a fresh, engaging experience for park visitors. It would also be a great step forward in integrating more Nintendo properties into Universal Parks
This potential shift could be a significant factor driving Disney to survey its guests about adding The Simpsons to its own parks, anticipating the eventual availability of the franchise once Universal’s contract ends.
Key art for Pokémon GO (2024), Niantic
The introduction of Pokémon at Universal could mark a new era for the theme parks, attracting a new generation of fans and leveraging the extensive Pokémon universe to create immersive experiences. For Disney, incorporating The Simpsons would not only fill the void left by Universal, but also add a beloved and nostalgic element to its parks.
Alternatively, Disney’s interest in The Simpsons might be part of a broader strategy to diversify its offerings and incorporate popular franchises across its various parks and resorts outside the US. This move could enhance the overall guest experience by providing a wider range of attractions and meet-and-greet opportunities, catering to diverse interests and age groups across the globe.
Bart and Homer Simpson jump a motorcycle over a canyon in The Simpsons Movie – YouTube, 20th Century Fox
Despite its age, The Simpsons is still very popular outside the US, particularly in China (despite being banned there from 2006 to 2014), where Disney has a theme park foothold.
Would you like to see Disney integrate The Simpsons into its theme parks? Are you hoping for a Universal Studios Pokémon land? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
How about a Wicked theme where you can ride a roller coaster car through one of Cynthia Erivo’s huge nostrils?
Wicked is Paramount’s baby, not Universal. Different companies.
The Simpsons have nothing to do with Disney characters and would stick out like a sore thumb. But this is Iger’s Disney we’re talking about and they’re more than desperate enough to try it. If it works out like everything else they’ve tried in the past decade it’s going to be an absolute failure. So here’s hoping they do it and waste even more money they can’t spare.
Universal shouldn’t touch Pokemon. Nor do I believe Nintendo would let them. The latter has serious control issues and would kill any sort of deal the instant they ran into any sort of opposition to their ideas about how things should be done, practical or not.