Disney's First Black Princess Takes Center Stage in New Attraction, Replacing Controversial Ride
Entertainment | June 11, 2024, 4:24 a.m.
A new attraction featuring the first Black Disney princess, Tiana, is set to open at Disney's U.S. theme park resorts, replacing the controversial Splash Mountain ride. The new ride, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, updates the storyline from the 2009 film, “The Princess and the Frog,” and is infused with music, scenery, and characters inspired by 1920s New Orleans. The decision to replace Splash Mountain was made in 2020 following protests against racial injustice. While some see this as a positive step towards inclusivity, others are skeptical about whether it addresses Disney’s past problematic depictions of race. Disney has also announced plans to revamp other rides with outdated or offensive storylines, reflecting a shift towards more diverse and culturally sensitive storytelling. Ultimately, the transformation from Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is seen as a significant move towards representation and inclusivity in Disney theme parks.