The History Behind Muppet Vision 3D

This beloved and classic Disney attraction will soon be singing its final song. Muppet Vision 3D is currently located in Hollywood Studios in Grand Avenue and has been entertaining guests since 1991. This attraction is currently one of the oldest in the park and has incredible history behind it. This attraction was the result of a project between Disney and Jim Henson, and it ended up being one of his final projects. It was recently announced that Muppet Vision 3D will be closing to make way for new experiences, and that Muppets will be taking over Rock ‘n Roller Coaster. This announcement has left fans of Muppet Vision 3D distraught and reminiscent on the attraction’s history.

Development

In 1989 it was announced that Disney was acquiring Muppet characters and that a new attraction would debut in Hollywood Studios in 1990. Henson himself began working on the project and was the director for the film which was written by Bill Prady. Henson ended up passing away in 1990 before work on the attraction could be completed which delayed the project for another year. This attraction was the last thing to be touched by Jim Henson, and also his last performance as Kermit the Frog. This attraction also became Richard Hunt’s last performance as he passed away from HIV/AIDS in 1992 shortly after the completion of the project. The attraction opened in 1991 and has made its way into the history books as a legacy performance for both Henson and Hunt.

The Attraction and Show

The attraction consists of a queue themed after Muppet Labs, a pre-show featuring several Muppet characters preparing for the show, and the main show which has a runtime of 15 minutes. The main show utilizes “4d” effects like bubbles, smoke, lights, and water, as well as 3D effects with guests wearing 3D glasses, and even a life performer playing the role of Sweetums. Audio-animatronic figures of Muppets Statler and Waldorf as well as Swedish Chef. The plot line of the show follows the Muppets as they give you, the guest, a tour of Muppet Labs. After several attempts to be part of the show and then failing, Bean Bunny eventually runs away with the living 3D invention: Waldo. A life action Sweetums appears in the audience to look for Bean Bunny, who is eventually found. A finale led by Sam the Eagle concludes the show with 4D in-theater effects.

Other Iterations

Muppet Vision 3D was an opening day attraction for Disney’s California Adventure park in 2001. This attraction ran until 2014 when it was closed permanently, leaving Disney World with the only Muppet Vision 3D attraction.

Easter Eggs and Facts

This attraction was full of hidden easter eggs and references. The queue area famously has a sign saying “Gone Out- key under mat” and when guests lift the nearby doormat the key is embedded into the ground. Spoof movie posters line the hall going into the attraction, and the pre-show area is full of boxes and props with references and puns.

Looking to the Future

In 2024 it was announced that Muppet Vision 3D would be closing to make way for new experiences. The Muppets will soon be taking over the Rock ‘n Roller Coaster attraction. Fans of this attraction are heartbroken over its removal, but the Walt Disney Company has revealed that creative discussions are happening on how to preserve the film and experience for guests to continue to enjoy.

Are you a fan of Muppet Vision 3d? How do you feel about its closure? Let us know in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.