Recent developments suggest that Animation Courtyard is gaining traction as the likely location for Disney's upcoming Monsters, Inc. land at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Reports indicate that Cast Members currently occupying the large office space within the former animation building behind Star Wars Launch Bay have been informed they will soon need to vacate the area. This move hints that Animation Courtyard may be slated for redevelopment, addressing one of the challenges that previously made this location seem less feasible for the new Monsters, Inc. land.
While both Muppets Courtyard and Animation Courtyard have been in the running, this latest update strengthens the case for Animation Courtyard. However, there remains no definitive word from Disney on the final decision, and the company has not yet issued any official announcement or further clarification since Parks Chairman Josh D'Amaro announced the new Monsters, Inc. land last weekend.
Some fans speculate that Disney might have floated both locations in early concept art to gauge reactions, particularly concerning the potential loss of the Muppets. By keeping both Muppets Courtyard and Animation Courtyard in play, Disney could be assessing which option would generate less backlash from the fan community. This theory gains some credibility considering Disney's cautious approach to announcing the final site, contrasting with the more decisive reveal when Cars was announced to replace Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom.
As we continue to monitor this evolving story, it remains possible that both areas are still under consideration, but the chances of the Muppets surviving this redevelopment seem to be growing.
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