Disney's SXSW "Future of World-Building" panel unveiled exciting updates for Disney Parks. Highlights included the integration of The Mandalorian and Grogu into a new Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run mission, the development of innovative, emotionally responsive ride vehicles for Magic Kingdom's Cars attraction, and a sneak peek at the load area and lift-off sequence for the new Monsters, Inc. attraction.
Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro and Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman highlighted the collaborative efforts driving these innovative park experiences.
Here are the key announcements:
The Mandalorian and Grogu Join Smuggler's Run
The Mandalorian and Grogu will be featured in a new mission for Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run, launching alongside The Mandalorian & Grogu movie on May 22, 2026. Jon Favreau, along with Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama, showcased concept art depicting locations like Tatooine's Jawa Sandcrawler, the Millennium Falcon and Razor Crest near Cloud City, and even the wreckage of the second Death Star above Endor. This new story, filmed on location, will offer a unique experience distinct from the movie itself, described by Favreau as "participating in something happening just off-camera."
The popular BDX droids from Disneyland are expanding to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris. A new Anzellan droid, Otto, will also appear, needing occasional tune-ups. These droids will also make an appearance in The Mandalorian & Grogu.
Monsters, Inc. Attraction Sneak Peek
A first look at the load area and lift-off for Disney World's new Monsters, Inc. roller coaster—Disney Parks' first suspended coaster with a vertical lift—was revealed. This attraction will immerse guests in the world of Monsters, Inc.'s door vault.
Innovative Ride Vehicles for Magic Kingdom's Cars Attraction
Pixar's Pete Docter and Imagineer Michael Hundgen discussed the development of a new type of ride vehicle for the upcoming Cars attraction at Magic Kingdom. The vehicle, designed for an emotional experience, will be used in a thrilling rally race through the mountains, requiring extensive research and development, including off-road testing and collaboration with a motocross company. Each vehicle will have a unique personality, name, and number.
Robert Downey Jr. on Avengers Campus Attractions
Robert Downey Jr. joined the panel to discuss Avengers Campus' new attractions. He highlighted the Stark Flight Lab, where guests will experience Tony Stark's latest inventions in his workshop, emphasizing the attraction as the embodiment of Stark Enterprises' mission. The ride will feature gyro-kinetic pods manipulated by a giant robotic arm inspired by DUM-E, utilizing motion capture and dance techniques for realistic movement.
