New Disney Character Statues Arrive at Hollywood Studios

New Disney character statues have arrived at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as The Magic of Disney Animation moves into the final days before its September 14 opening. The latest additions include Bolt, two 101 Dalmatians puppies and Meeko, adding more recognizable Disney Animation characters to the reimagined courtyard. The timing is notable because Cast Member previews for the indoor experience have also begun, providing one of the clearest signs yet that the project is nearing completion.

The courtyard is part of the broader transformation of the former Animation Courtyard into an area inspired by the legendary Walt Disney Studios campus in Burbank, California. Disney says the reimagined setting is designed to bring Disney Animation characters and stories into the park through a relaxed, studio-inspired environment. The outdoor area has already opened, while the major indoor component is scheduled to welcome guests on September 14.

The latest statues continue a strategy that has made the courtyard increasingly interesting for Disney fans: instead of relying only on the most famous characters, Imagineering has placed a mix of classic favorites, supporting characters and newer Disney Animation personalities throughout the space. That makes the new additions more than simple decorations. They reinforce the idea that the area is intended to represent Disney Animation across generations.

What new Disney character statues were added?

The newest group includes Bolt, the canine star of Disney's 2008 animated film, along with two 101 Dalmatians puppies. The characters are positioned together in a playful tug-of-war scene, giving the display a sense of movement rather than presenting the figures as traditional standalone statues. The arrangement fits the courtyard's broader approach of placing characters into small interactions that guests can discover while walking through the area.

Meeko, the mischievous raccoon from Pocahontas, is another recent addition. His statue depicts him enjoying popcorn, a fitting choice for a character remembered for his comic and food-loving personality. The new arrivals join an expanding collection that has included characters such as Abu, Sir Hiss, Fru Fru, Mochi, Jiminy Cricket, Lucifer, Zazu, Pua, Thumper and Ray, among others.

When does The Magic of Disney Animation open?

The Magic of Disney Animation is officially scheduled to open at Disney's Hollywood Studios on September 14, 2026. Disney announced the date in July and described the project as a collection of animation-inspired experiences housed inside the reimagined area. The experience includes Drawn to Wonderland, Off the Page!, Olaf Draws! and the Once Upon a Studio Theater.

The September 14 date remains the confirmed public opening date. Cast Member previews began on September 4, with construction walls removed and Cast Members seen moving through the completed space. However, the exact groups eligible for previews have not been publicly established, and Disney has not announced a public soft opening before September 14.

Why are the new statues important before the opening?

The new characters help show how Disney is using the redesigned courtyard to tell a broader animation story. Earlier installations already mixed classic characters with less frequently featured sidekicks, while the arrival of Bolt and Meeko adds characters from different eras of Disney Animation. Bruni from Frozen 2 and other newer characters further support the impression that the area is not intended to function simply as a tribute to Disney's earliest animated films.

There is also a practical reason the additions matter now. The courtyard is already accessible to guests, meaning visitors can explore these character details before entering the new indoor experience. Disney's official description emphasizes a setting where characters and stories come to life around guests, making the outdoor statues part of the atmosphere rather than merely temporary construction decorations.

The larger project also draws directly from Disney Animation's real studio history. Disney says the new experience is inspired by the Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank and the Emmy Award-winning short film “Once Upon A Studio.” The concept is designed to let guests explore animation-inspired spaces while interacting with characters and elements connected to the filmmaking process.

What should Disney World visitors expect next?

For guests visiting Hollywood Studios in the coming days, the biggest confirmed development is the September 14 opening of The Magic of Disney Animation. The character statues are already providing new details to discover in the courtyard, while Cast Member previews indicate that the indoor portion is in the final preparation stage. Disney has not confirmed an earlier public opening, so visitors should plan around September 14 rather than assuming they will be able to enter before then.

The timing also makes the courtyard worth another look for returning Disney World visitors. Characters continue to appear in unexpected locations, while the completed attraction will add several interactive experiences beneath the Sorcerer Mickey-themed entrance. With the outdoor environment already operating and the indoor experience approaching its official debut, the transformation of Animation Courtyard is now entering its final phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What new characters were added to the Disney Studios courtyard?

The latest reported additions include Bolt, two 101 Dalmatians puppies and Meeko. The characters join an expanding collection of Disney Animation figures placed throughout the courtyard.

When does The Magic of Disney Animation open?

The Magic of Disney Animation is scheduled to officially open at Disney's Hollywood Studios on September 14, 2026. Disney has confirmed the date as the public opening.

Will there be a public soft opening before September 14?

A public soft opening has not been confirmed. Cast Member previews are underway, but Disney has not announced that regular guests will be allowed inside before the official September 14 debut.