Will Smith Confirmed To Play The Genie In The Live Action Version Of “Aladdin”; Mena Massoud And Naomi Scott To Play Aladdin And Jasmine

WDWNT on July 22, 2017

Today at the D23 Expo, it was confirmed at the Walt Disney Studios Live Action Films Panel that Will Smith (“After Earth”) will indeed be playing The Genie in Guy Ritchie’s upcoming live action version of the classic Disney animated hit “Aladdin”. Smith will also be joined by Mena Massoud (“Open Heart”) as Aladdin and Naomi Scott (“Power Rangers”) will play Jasmine.

Source: Disney D23

New Character Posters Released For “Star Wars: The Last Jedi”

WDWNT on July 22, 2017

 

Lucasfilm has released some new character posters for Luke, Rey, Finn and General Leia Organa from “Star Wars: The Last Jedi”. So what is going on with the red theme? Seems like dark times are eminent for our heroes.

Update: Individual posters for Kylo Ren (or maybe Ben Solo) and Poe Dameron have also been released!

Source: Star Wars

CONFIRMED: Star Wars Land Named “Galaxy’s Edge”, Rex Will Appear in Cantina – D23 Expo 2017 News

WDWNT on July 22, 2017

Bob Chapek has just confirmed at the D23 Expo Parks & Resorts presentation the rumor we noted yesterday that the new Star Wars land will be called “Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge”.

Also, Rex from Star Tours will be in Star Wars land as the DJ at the Cantina.

New concept art from the two major attractions was also shown.

AT D23 EXPO 2017, DISNEY PARKS CHAIRMAN BOB CHAPEK ANNOUNCES NEW DETAILS OF ATTRACTIONS PLANNED FOR STAR WARS: GALAXYÕS EDGE — Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek shared new details and a glimpse inside the two attractions planed for Star Wars: GalaxyÕs Edge coming to both Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif. and DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Fla. in 2019.

AT D23 EXPO 2017, DISNEY PARKS CHAIRMAN BOB CHAPEK ANNOUNCES NEW DETAILS OF ATTRACTIONS PLANNED FOR STAR WARS: GALAXYÕS EDGE — Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek shared new details and a glimpse inside the two attractions planed for Star Wars: GalaxyÕs Edge coming to both Disneyland park in Anaheim, Calif. and DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Fla. in 2019.

 

WDWNT: Nerd Alert – Season Three – Episode 10 Is Now Available For Download

WDWNT on July 22, 2017

In this week’s episode, the gang talk about:

  • Did Mark Ruffalo spoil the ending of “Avengers: Infinity War’?
  • Mark Hamill thought he was going to play The Vulture in “Spider-Man: Homecoming”.
  • Zack Snyder deletes all references of “Justice League” on his Twitter account.
  • We discuss all of the exciting news out of D23:
    • The latest on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
    • The “Avengers: Infinity War” trailer that we didn’t see!
    • Marvel Land coming to Disneyland!
    • Tron Lightcycle Power Run coming to the Disney World!
    • A Star Wars Themed hotel is on the way!
    • “Ralph Wrecks The Internet; Wreck-It-Ralph 2” will have characters from Star Wars and Marvel!
    • “The Incredibles 2” to introduce 25 superheroes!
    • We discuss the casting for the live action “Aladdin” and “Dumbo” movies.

Join hosts Joe Hogarty, Ron D’Anna, and Eric Lancy!

WDWNT: Nerd Alert – Season Three Episode 10 is now available for download through WDW News Today: Original Programing  and iTunes!

VIDEO: John Stamos Hosts Marty Sklar, Tony Baxter, and Wayne Jackson for “Legends of Walt Disney Imagineering” at the D23 Expo 2017

WDWNT on July 22, 2017

Join a fascinating conversation, hosted by John Stamos, with three Imagineering Legends—Marty Sklar, Tony Baxter, and 2017 Disney Legend inductee Wayne Jackson—as they recount true-life anecdotes and share personal stories about the celebrated artists, designers, and technical wizards who established the foundation and guiding principles for groundbreaking Disney experiences around the globe. This presentation was hosted on Sunday, July 16th at the D23 Expo 2017.

Disney Announces Upcoming Slate For Animation Studio, PIXAR, Marvel & Lucasfilm at D23 Expo 2017

WDWNT on July 13, 2017

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THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS PRESENTS UPCOMING FILM SLATE FROM DISNEY, PIXAR, MARVEL, AND LUCASFILM AT D23 EXPO 2017 

‘Celebration of an Animated Classic: The Lion King’ Event Announced

The Walt Disney Studios presents an exclusive look at its unparalleled film slate at D23 Expo 2017 in Anaheim, California, taking place July 14–16.

At two marquee Hall D23 presentations, the Studio will give fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse at its upcoming releases, with animated films from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios showcased on Friday, July 14, and live-action projects from Disney, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm taking the stage on Saturday, July 15.

Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm are responsible for some of the world’s biggest movie hits, including recent blockbusters such as Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, and The Jungle Book; Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia and Moana; Pixar Animation Studios’ Inside Out, Finding Dory, and Cars 3; Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Doctor Strange, and Captain America: Civil War; and Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. While the films to be featured in Hall D23 will remain under wraps until showtime, the Studio’s upcoming slate includes Pixar’s Coco; Marvel Studios’ Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther, and Avengers: Infinity War; Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Last Jedi; Disney’s A Wrinkle in Time and Mary Poppins Returns; Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2; and more.

In addition, a new event has been announced for Sunday, July 16, at 10 a.m. in the D23 Expo Arena: Celebration of an Animated Classic: The Lion King. Producer Don Hahn, director Rob Minkoff, animators Tony Bancroft and Mark Henn, and special guests will be in attendance during this not-to-be-missed look back at the timeless and beloved Disney animated film.

HALL D23 PRESENTATIONS: 

Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios: The Upcoming Films, Hosted by John Lasseter

Friday, July 14, 2:30 p.m. – Hall D23

Were you there in 2015 when Ellen DeGeneres and Dwayne Johnson wowed the crowds? When Zootopia’s sloth scene screened for the very first time? And when Randy Newman, Buzz Lightyear, and Woody celebrated the 20th anniversary of Toy Story? Then you know the Animation presentation at Hall D23 is a MUST. Join host John Lasseter, chief creative officer of Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios, as he presents Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios: The Upcoming Films. Never-before-seen footage from Pixar’s upcoming feature Coco and Disney Animation’s Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 will be unveiled, as well as surprise announcements, musical performances, and appearances by star voice talent. Cell phones, cameras, and all recording devices will be checked for this presentation.

Disney, Marvel Studios & Lucasfilm – Live Action at The Walt Disney Studios

Saturday, July 15, 10:30 a.m. – Hall D23

The Walt Disney Studios is home to the biggest and most beloved brands in filmmaking today, with a number of highly anticipated projects from Disney, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm in the works. At this exclusive Hall D23 presentation featuring never-before-seen footage, surprise star appearances, and more, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at an exciting array of spectacular films on the horizon from these world-class studios. Cell phones, cameras, and all recording devices will be checked for this presentation.

CALENDAR OF KEY EVENTS: 

The Power of the Princess

Saturday, July 15, 10:30 a.m. – Stage 28

Walt Disney Animation Studios invites you to The Power of the Princess, featuring Jodi Benson (Ariel), Paige O’Hara (Belle), Anika Noni Rose (Tiana), and Auli‘i Cravalho (Moana)—the talented actresses who brought these iconic characters to life—as they share stories of making their films and the impact of their characters on people around the world. Hosted by Walt Disney Animation Studios animators Amy Smeed and Kira Lehtomaki.

Creating the Worlds in Pixar’s Universe

Saturday, July 15, 12:15 p.m. – Stage 28

Pixar’s films are filled with beloved characters living in relatable yet previously unimagined worlds. Join Pixar production designers and artists who have created the mountain tops, oceans, and “monstropolises” in which your favorite characters live. These artists create the setting and cultivate the mood of every scene using extensive research, incredible imagination, and each individual director’s vision, giving life to the amazing worlds in Pixar’s movies.

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure: A Sneak Peek at the New Frozen Featurette

Saturday, July 15, 2:30 p.m. – Stage 28

Be among the first to see both exclusive and behind-the-scenes footage from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ newest Frozen holiday featurette, the highly anticipated Olaf’s Frozen Adventure. The film, which features the talents of the original Frozen cast, as well as brand-new songs, is directed by the Emmy®-winning team Stevie Wermers-Skelton and Kevin Deters (Prep & Landing) and produced by Oscar®-winning producer Roy Conli (Big Hero 6, Tangled).

The Evolution of Pixar’s Characters

Saturday, July 15, 6 p.m. – Stage 28

From the waves in their hair to the shoes on their feet, Pixar characters are designed to be full of personality and to tell a story. Hear from the legendary Pixar artists who have created the most memorable characters in Pixar’s history. These are the visionaries who start with an initial doodle and see the evolution of a character through to final animation—the people who let technology influence the art and make the impossible, possible.

Celebration of an Animated Classic: The Lion King

Sunday, July 16, 10 a.m. – D23 Expo Arena

Join a Disney celebration of the magic, the music, and the majesty of the animated classic The Lion King. Producer Don Hahn, director Rob Minkoff, and animators Tony Bancroft and Mark Henn, along with some very special guests, reveal the secrets behind the making of the timeless animated classic. 

Bambi’s 75th Anniversary

Sunday, July 16, 11:30 a.m. – Walt Disney Archives Stage

Join us as we commemorate the 75th anniversary and Walt Disney Signature Collection release of Bambi, the endearing, timeless tale of a wide-eyed fawn that has touched generations. Audiences can look forward to hearing personal stories from the voice cast, anecdotes behind the making of this film and its exquisite hand-drawn artwork, and much, much more. It’s groundbreaking animated classics like Bambi that were created or inspired by the imagination and legacy of Walt Disney and still influence many great visionaries and animators today. 

ALL WEEKEND ON THE D23 EXPO SHOW FLOOR

Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios

Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios once again join forces for a must-see animation experience at D23 Expo. Artist demonstrations, autograph signings with top filmmakers, fan giveaways and interactive displays featuring the latest films including Cars 3, Coco, Olaf’s Frozen Adventure, and Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2, make this booth one to visit over-and-over again.

Marvel Studios Pavilion

At the Marvel Studios Pavilion, fans will get an up-close look at the costumes and props from Thor: Ragnarok, including photo opportunities with exclusive set pieces from the film, as well as incredible costumes from Black Panther. Marvel Studios will host multiple giveaways and events within its pavilion space in Hall B. Fans will get the chance to meet with Marvel Studios’ filmmakers, development team, and talent. Exclusive artwork will be given away daily, along with other surprises. Details on talent appearances and special signings will be made available on the D23 Expo app.

Disney Music Emporium – Album Signings and Exclusive Products

Disney Music Emporium, the online destination for collectible Disney music products, returns to D23 Expo 2017 with a pop-up store on the show floor. Over the three-day Ultimate Disney Fan Event, the Emporium will feature album signings by artists and award-winning composers. Limited quantities of a wide assortment of music products will be available, including new releases from Marvel, Moana, Beauty and the Beast, and Disneyland attraction picture discs, plus lithographs, Crosley turntables, and posters. For a complete list of talent appearances and album signings, visit http://waltdisneyrecords.com/d23expo/signings.html.

Disney Movie Rewards and Disney Movie Club

Throughout the D23 Expo 2017, Disney fans will be able to experience a unique augmented reality photo booth presented by Disney Movie Rewards, the premier loyalty program for all your favorite Disney Movies. Fans will be able to earn mystery points which can be used for great rewards like Blu-rays, movie tickets, and exclusive collectibles only available at DisneyMovieRewards.com. Disney Movie Club, the ultimate source for building your Disney movie library, will also be there hosting a special augmented reality gallery. Come by for free giveaways and a special sign up offer just for D23 Expo 2017 attendees. For more magic and savings visit DisneyMovieClub.com. 

Disney Family Movies

The subscription, video-on-demand service Disney Family Movies provides the ultimate in family entertainment from one of the world’s largest film libraries, giving viewers unlimited access to a selection of beloved classic and contemporary films and animated shorts from The Walt Disney Studios. Each of the 12 titles remains in rotation for a month, with new movies added weekly. Stop by our booth in Hall C to learn about this fun service, available through your television provider.

Tickets for D23 Expo 2017 are available for $81 for one-day adult admission and $59 for children 3–9. Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $72 for a one-day adult admission and $53 for children 3–9. Multi-day tickets are also available. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2017, visit D23Expo.com.

Latest Issue Of Disney Twenty-Three Celebrates Thirty Years Of Disney Legends

WDWNT on July 13, 2017

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DISNEY TWENTY-THREE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF DISNEY LEGENDS   

TIM ALLEN, HAYLEY MILLS, PAIGE O’HARA, REGIS PHILBIN, ANIKA NONI ROSE, KURT RUSSELL, LEA SALONGA, RICHARD SHERMAN, DICK VAN DYKE, AND DOZENS OF HONOREES FEATURED IN EXCLUSIVE NEW PHOTOGRAPHS AND INTERVIEWS 

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Disney Legends award, created to honor those who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy. To mark the occasion, Disney twenty-three has created a unique stand-alone issue featuring all 267 current honorees, as well as the 10 new Legends, who will be inducted next week at D23 Expo 2017. Since 1987, the award has been given to individuals who have worked with and for Disney in front of the camera and behind the scenes, from the shining stars of the silver and small screen to the creative minds behind its films, attractions, music, and entertainment.

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For the issue, exclusively for Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, Disney twenty-three Photo Editor Ty Popko photographed 40 Legends in Disney settings: from Walt Disney’s Office Suite and the Walt Disney Archives to Walt Disney World Resort and the Good Morning America studios. Featured Legends include Tim Allen, Hayley Mills, Paige O’Hara, Regis Philbin, Anika Noni Rose, Lea Salonga, Richard Sherman, and Dick Van Dyke. Kurt Russell, also photographed for this issue, gives a first-person account of his time working for Walt himself and the many Disney adventures he has had over the years.

Plus, Disney animator Eric Goldberg crafted a piece of artwork exclusively for this issue featuring more than 30 Disney Legends, including Julie Andrews, Steve Martin, Angela Lansbury, and Robin Williams, at a fabulous “Legend-ary” party. As a bonus, D23 Gold Members attending D23 Expo 2017 will be able to receive a complimentary print of the artwork at the event.

Also included in the fall issue of Disney twenty-three:

  • A Disney Legends-themed Ask Dave with Disney Legend Dave Smith
  • Photographs from Disney Legends Awards ceremonies through the years
  • A tribute to Annette Funicello by Richard Sherman

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The new issue will begin arriving in late July.

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D23 Expo 2017 Official Mobile App Helps You Manage Your Time at D23

WDWNT on July 13, 2017

With just days until the 2017 D23 Expo kicks off, Disney has released the latest version of their companion app for the mega convention.

The D23 Expo 2017 Official Mobile App is here to help attendees manage their time to make the most of their jam-packed weekend. Think of it like the My Disney Experience app of D23. Users can get detailed information on panels, entertainment, signings, shops, photo opportunities and more.

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The app features a detailed map of the Anaheim Convention Center so that even the most novice attendees can find their way around with ease.

Perhaps the most important feature, however, is the ability to create a list of favorites from the slew of upcoming panels and shows. In your favorites list you can see all the entertainment you don’t want to miss, as well as create notes and set notifications for specific events.

The app also helps you find where you can make StagePass reservations. Think of it like FastPass for panels and shows. Attendees can select one event to reserve that will guarantee them seating at that particular event, provided you show up at the allotted return time. Guests will be able to obtain two StagePasses per day during the expo, one at 9am and another at 12:30pm. Be sure to use the app to find the StagePass ticket booth because, just like FastPass, reservations are limited!

Among the big features listed above, the app offers tons more, including a “Things to Know” tab to help you get a better understand of all you need to know before arriving at the D23 Expo.

The D23 Expo 2017 Official Mobile App is now available for download on iOS and Android devices.

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Legends of Imagineering, Hercules 20th Anniversary, Snow White 80th Anniversary, and More Join D23 Expo’s Roster of Exciting Presentations

WDWNT on June 25, 2017

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WHOOPI GOLDBERG, MARK HAMILL, LEONARD MALTIN, JOHN STAMOS, LESLEY ANN WARREN, THE STARS OF HERCULES, AND MANY MORE JOIN D23 EXPO’S ROSTER OF EXCITING ENTERTAINMENT AND PRESENTATIONS  

And, for the first time ever at D23 Expo, fans will get to enjoy a daily street party, featuring celebrities, Disney characters, and live music on the show floor. 

 

The excitement is ramping up from “zero to hero” for D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. During the three-day spectacular, which takes place July 14–16 at the Anaheim Convention Center, guests will have the chance to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Hercules with members of the cast and creative team; hear from Disney Legends, including 2017 inductee MarkHamill, during a panel hosted by Leonard Maltin; and enjoy the music of Walt Disney’s classic live-action musicals in a remarkable stage production featuring Lesley Ann Warren and hosted by Whoopi Goldberg. John Stamos will host a chat with Legends of Walt Disney Imagineering. Plus, theWalt Disney Archives will host three days of presentations on its own stage. And, for the first time, guests will be able to enjoy a daily “Ultimate Fan Street Party” right on the show floor.

Just-announced panels:

Mousequerade

Friday, July 14, 11 a.m., Stage 28

Mousequerade, the fan-favorite costume competition that invitesparticipants to create their own Disney-inspired designs, returns to D23 Expo 2017. Join judges Ashley Eckstein (Star Wars Rebels), Kara Saun (costume designer for Descendants 2), Yvette Nicole Brown (ABC’s The Mayor), and the contest’s host, Disney’s Jim Babcock, to watch dozens of finalistscompete in five excitingcategories for the $2,300 grand prize!

The Golden Girls: A Celebration of Friendship, Laughter, and Cheesecake

Friday, July 14, 2:30 p.m., Stage 28

In the 25 years since the final episode of The Golden Girls aired in 1992, the television series has become an enduring fan favorite that continuesto be watched throughout the world. Celebrate with us as we bring together the show’s creators and other special guests for this unforgettable event.

Disney Legends 30th Anniversary

Friday, July 14, 4:15 p.m., Stage 28

Join film historian Leonard Maltin as he celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Disney Legends program with a remarkable lineup of individuals who have each left an indelible mark on the Disney legacy, including Bill Farmer (the voice of Goofy and Pluto), Imagineering Legend Bob Gurr, Walt Disney Archives founder Dave Smith, and 2017 inductee Mark Hamill.

Melodies in Walt’s Time: The Music of Disney Live-Action Films

Friday, July 14, 6 p.m., D23 Expo Arena 

In the 1960s, Walt Disney sought to expand his filmmaking style beyond animation and bring music to a variety of new live-action film projects. D23 Expo will celebrate these magical, musical movies in a live stage extravaganza—hosted by Whoopi Goldberg and featuring Lesley Ann Warren, Karen Dotrice, and other renowned guest stars, joined by live musical performers and a 20-voice chorus—to showcase Summer Magic, Mary Poppins, The Happiest Millionaire, and The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band, as well as others.

Zero to Hero: The Making of Hercules 

Sunday, July 16, 12:30 p.m., D23 Expo Arena

From the heights of Mount Olympus to the depths of the Underworld, celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Disney classic that put the “glad” in gladiator! Join a group of legendary artists and filmmakers who brought Hercules to life, including directors John Musker and Ron Clements, animators Eric Goldberg (“Phil”) and Ken Duncan (“Megara”), as well as Megara and Hercules themselves—Susan Egan and Tate Donovan—as they recount stories of making one of the most epic animated features of all time.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs: 80th Anniversary Screening

Sunday, July 16, 3:15 p.m., D23 Expo Arena

For eight decades, Disney fans have whistled “Heigh Ho” while they worked. Now, in honor of the 80th anniversary of Walt Disney’s first-ever animated feature, D23 Expo is proud to presenta special screening of the film that startedit all: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Legends of Walt Disney Imagineering

Sunday, July 16, 6 p.m., D23 Expo Arena

Join a fascinating conversation, hosted by John Stamos, with three Imagineering Legends—Marty Sklar, Tony Baxter, and 2017 Disney Legend inductee Wayne Jackson—as they recount true-life anecdotes and share personalstories about the celebrated artists, designers, and technical wizards who established the foundation and guidingprinciples for groundbreaking Disney experiences around the globe.

Also coming to D23 Expo…

Walt Disney Archives Stage

The popular Walt Disney Archives Stage returns, more than doubling its capacity, as it hosts 17 panels and presentations throughout the weekend. Disney notables, such as director Pete Docter, Disney Legend Jim Cora, producer Don Hahn, Bret Iwan (the voice of Mickey Mouse), Imagineers Diana Brost, Jason Grandt, and Chris Merritt, plus many more, will participate in panels throughout the weekend. Fans will enjoy exploring many of Disney’s worlds, from the incredible work of Marc Davis and the original characters of the Disney Parks (such as Figment and the Country Bears) to the women of Disney animation and an incredible virtual walk-through of the Walt Disney Studios on Hyperon Avenue. Visit D23expo.com for the complete schedule.

Center Stage

Located in the center of the D23 Expo show floor, Center Stage will be the heartbeat of the Expo and a hub of activitythroughout the weekend. AimeeCarrero, the voice of Disney’s Elena of Avalor, will perform live for the first time, and will be joined by special guests including Lou DiamondPhillips who voices series’ villain, Victor Delgado.  Also performing on Center Stage will be TemeculaRoad, Tomasina, Billy Hill and the Hillbillies, nerd-rock group Kirby Krackle, and Susan Egan, who will sing favorites from Beautyand the Beast. Disney animators, including Eric Goldberg and Mark Henn, will show aspiringartists “how to draw” throughout the weekend. Marvel’s Brian Crosby will show fans how to draw Spider-Man and Groot. And BillRogers, the “voice of Disneyland,” will be on-hand each day to record fans’ outgoing voicemail messages in his signature dulcet tones. The comletelineup will be availablein the coming weeks on the D23 Expo app.

D23 Expo’s Ultimate Fan Street Party

For the first time at D23 Expo, guests can enjoy a one-of-a-kind street party—right on the D23 Expo show floor. Twice each day the cavalcade will travel down Mickey Avenue, with a live band, beloved Disney characters, high-energy dancers, and celebrity grand marshals! Stan Lee and Mark Hamill will grand marshal the first cavalcade on Friday, July 14, and members of the cast of Descendants 2 will lead the second that day. Additional talent and times to be announced in the coming weeks and will be available on the D23 Expo app.

 

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