Disney has shared the first official look at new animatronics in action for Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The updated attraction opens on May 26, 2026, replacing the longtime Aerosmith version of the coaster.
The newly revealed Muppets animatronics will appear throughout the roller coaster’s pre-show scenes. Disney confirmed that Scooter will become the first full Muppet Audio-Animatronics figure featured in a Disney theme park ride. Imagineers used motion-capture technology to help create the character’s movements.
A close look reveals that Scooter has the sticks attached to his arms as if he were a Muppet being moved live by a puppeteer, and not an animatronic.
11 days to curtain 🎥 Your first look at Scooter on Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets 🎸 pic.twitter.com/HlpmAopoTG
— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) May 15, 2026
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Disney previewed several penguin animatronics inside the recording studio setting. The clip also shows the Electric Mayhem jamming along before asking how they sound and a blast of smoke fills the studio room as Beaker flies up against the glass.
Coaster Retheme
The attraction’s story takes place inside the fictional G-Force Records studio. Guests join the Electric Mayhem band as the group attempts to reach a concert across Los Angeles. Riders then board the attraction’s familiar “L.I.M.O.” vehicles before launching into the indoor coaster experience.
While the theme has changed, the ride system remains the same. The coaster still uses its original launch system, inversions, and onboard audio effects. Disney stated that multiple songs performed by the Electric Mayhem band will play during the ride. The lineup includes Muppet-themed versions of “Song 2,” “Born to Be Wild,” and “Walking on Sunshine.” Guest performers include Kelly Clarkson, Def Leppard, Jennifer Hudson, and Questlove.
The updated exterior also includes changes tied to the new Muppets theme. Disney redesigned the large guitar sculpture outside the attraction and added new signage near the entrance. The surrounding décor now reflects the Electric Mayhem’s fictional concert tour.
Concept art for the Muppet Rockin’ Roller Coaster Exterior – Disney Parks
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Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith operated at Disney’s Hollywood Studios from 1999 until its closure in March 2026. Disney announced the Muppets retheme in 2024 after years of rumor surrounding the future of the attraction.
Other Muppet Updates
In addition to the ride updates, Disney confirmed new themed locations near the coaster. A merchandise shop called “Rock Around the Shop” will open nearby. Disney also announced a food stand named “FØØD by Swedish Chef.”
The pre-show scenes will also feature several celebrity cameos. Disney confirmed appearances from Awkwafina, Danny Trejo, Neil Patrick Harris, and “Weird Al” Yankovic throughout the recording studio environment.
Concept art for the Muppet Rockin’ Roller Coaster – Disney Parks
Annual Passholder and Disney Vacation Club previews will be available May 21, 22, and 23 ahead of the May 26 opening for the public.
Conclusion
The clip of the the new animatronics mark one of Disney’s largest recent investments in The Muppets franchise. The characters previously appeared in MuppetVision 3D, which closed in 2025 as part of broader redevelopment plans for Hollywood Studios.
Disney continues to update several sections of the park. Current expansion plans include a Monsters, Inc.-themed land and additional redevelopment around Animation Courtyard.
Are you excited to see the new animatronics and ride the rethemed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster? Let us know your thoughts on Muppets taking over in the comments below.
