During D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event more details were revealed about the upcoming Indiana Jones attraction coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World including the ride’s name and that Harrison Ford’s likeness will feature.
During the Disney Experiences showcase, “Horizons: A Carousel of Progress,” Imagineers Michael Hundgen and Chris Beatty revealed a treasure trove of announcements about everyone’s favorite hero with a snake grudge. The attraction will live in the vibrant, lush new land of Tropical Americas, and includes revolutionary Audio-Animatronics figures, an original storyline, and one grand escapade that transports guests into the world of the ancient Maya alongside Indiana Jones, in a way that only Animal Kingdom could.
Harrison Ford Revealed as Animatronic Model
Everyone in the audience was delighted to receive a message from Indy himself, Disney Legend Harrison Ford, to kick things off.
After expressing his gratitude to fans for being along for the ride on so many adventures with this beloved character, Ford briefly shared that he is the actual model for the next Indiana Jones animatronic. He confirmed that this is the first time he will be the face you see on a Disney attraction anywhere in the world.
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Michael and Chris resurfaced this news later in the showcase, proudly displaying the digital model that is being used to build the Audio-Animatronics figure.
What is the New Indiana Jones Attraction Called?
The next major announcement from the presentation came from Michael and Chris, as the duo confirmed the name of the attraction publicly for the first time. We are pleased to share that Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent is the title of this next installment of Indy’s adventures at Disney parks.
What Inspired the Indiana Jones Attraction?
Also revealed today were the first details about the ride’s cultural inspiration, new storyline, and the experience guests will have once entering the temple and embarking on this breathtaking quest.
Imagineers were eager to blend the thrill of a classic Indiana Jones adventure with the rich cultural details that are quintessential to Animal Kingdom, a park that is dedicated to creatures both real and imagined. The attraction takes riders on a journey alongside Indy, beneath an ancient temple ruin, showcasing Maya culture and its profound connection to nature – perfectly fitting for this park.
Michael and Chris shared that the temple entrance is being built as we speak, and gave a behind-the-scenes look at the stunning facade, which up until now we have only seen in renderings.
They continued to share that the project team remains dedicated to authentic storytelling, working closely with archaeologists, anthropologists, and Maya experts to ensure that every element is accurate for the region. Riders will be awed by the highly detailed and original Maya artwork found in the attraction, and I can’t wait to get a first glimpse at some of these pieces.
Read more about Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent here.
