Children’s Television Series News: Will Bluey Come to Walt Disney World?
Bluey is undeniably a global phenomenon, captivating young audiences worldwide and reigning as the most popular show on Disney+. However, despite its presence on the streaming platform, Bluey is not a Disney creation. The rights to Bluey are a complex matter, with the show being controlled and produced by Ludo Studio and funded by various entities including the Australian Broadcasting Corp. and BBC Studios. Disney licensed the show in 2019 to bolster its then-fledgling Disney+ lineup, but unfortunately, this license did not include theme park rights. Consequently, Bluey and her family are not found at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, or any other Disney park.
Recent developments offer a glimmer of hope for Bluey fans. A newly announced deal between BBC Studios and Disney grants the latter global theatrical rights for a Bluey animated feature film slated for release in 2027. This collaboration signifies a potential shift in the relationship between Disney and the Bluey franchise, addressing concerns about the show’s longevity and the creator’s willingness to partner with Disney. The upcoming film could pave the way for Disney acquiring theme park rights, a move that would greatly benefit Walt Disney World, especially in the face of growing competition.
Bluey’s popularity transcends borders. It’s a generational hit, boasting impressive viewership figures in countries like the United States and China. In the US alone, Bluey was the second most streamed show overall in the past year, accounting for a significant portion of Disney+’s total TV show views. The show revolves around the everyday adventures of the Heeler family – Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli – offering heartwarming and humorous insights into childhood and parenthood. Unlike many children’s programs, Bluey appeals to both kids and adults, drawing comparisons to beloved classics like Calvin & Hobbes and possessing the enduring quality of shows like Friends or Seinfeld.
This enduring popularity sets Bluey apart from fleeting trends in children’s television. It suggests a lasting appeal that makes the acquisition of theme park rights a strategic move for Disney. A source revealed that Disney initially passed on the opportunity to license Bluey’s merchandising and theme park rights in 2019, a decision they reportedly now regret.
The growing Bluey empire, with its expanding merchandise line and immersive experiences like Bluey’s World in Brisbane, Australia, indicates a natural progression towards theme park integration. Walt Disney World, facing competition from Universal Orlando’s upcoming Epic Universe, could significantly benefit from the addition of a Bluey attraction. Such an offering would generate considerable buzz and attract a large, dedicated fanbase.
Potential options for a Bluey presence at Walt Disney World include a walk-through experience similar to Bluey’s World, a temporary exhibit at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a cavalcade, or integration into EPCOT’s World Celebration. While Disney’s Hollywood Studios seems the most logical location, Animal Kingdom’s need for an attendance boost might make it a contender.
Given Disney’s penchant for acquisitions, the company’s reported regret over the initial licensing deal, and Walt Disney World’s need for a compelling new attraction, the arrival of Bluey at the parks seems more a question of “when” than “if.” The potential for synergy between Disney and the already thriving Bluey franchise is undeniable, making it a highly anticipated development in the world of children’s television series news.
