The controversy has highlighted growing audience skepticism toward Disney’s marketing tactics, especially as early box office projections for the film remain relatively modest.

What happened at Disneyland

In the widely circulated video, Pascal, dressed in full Mandalorian armor, removed his helmet in front of a group at Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Disney’s social media posts framed the moment as Pascal delivering “the surprise of a lifetime.”

However, it was later revealed that the group was not made up of random tourists. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the people featured in the video were Star Wars influencers, bloggers, and fan creators who had been invited to the park. Their reactions appeared genuine, but the entire encounter was staged by Disney and Lucasfilm for promotional purposes.

Quotes on the stunt and the backlash

Disney initially presented the event in glowing terms. The company’s Instagram caption described it as Pascal creating “the surprise of a lifetime” for fans.

After the staged nature of the video came to light, reactions were more critical.

Some participants in the event pushed back against the criticism. One cosplayer who was part of the group posted positively afterward.

“I was a crying fool after shaking [Pascal’s] hand. The team @starwars @lucasfilm worked tirelessly on planning out this epic experience for us,” the cosplayer wrote.

One of the most widely quoted takes came from entertainment commentator EJ Passeos, who wrote:

“The backlash surrounding the Pedro Pascal Disneyland stunt taps directly into a growing problem for Disney: Audiences no longer trust the company’s marketing.”

The Hollywood Reporter framed the story in straightforward terms, posting:

“Disney Accused of ‘Staging’ Viral Pedro Pascal ‘Mandalorian’ Fan Surprise With Influencers.”

Yahoo Entertainment also covered the story with a measured tone, noting:

“Disney under fire over ‘staged’ Pedro Pascal ‘Mandalorian’ fan encounter. The star seemingly stunned a group of Disneyland tourists on Smuggler’s Run. But things weren’t exactly how they appeared.”

While some participants in the event posted positively about the experience, the broader reaction across social media has centered on disappointment that Disney felt the need to manufacture what was presented as a spontaneous, wholesome moment. Many users described it as another example of the company struggling to generate authentic excitement for its projects.

Mandalorian and Grogu is tracking for a soft $74 to $90 million opening

The timing of this backlash is significant. The Mandalorian and Grogu is currently tracking for a relatively soft opening compared to traditional Star Wars theatrical releases.

Current projections have the film opening in the $74 to $90 million domestic range, with some estimates reaching the low-to-mid $90s over the four-day Memorial Day weekend. While that would be acceptable for many films, it is considered modest for a Star Wars movie, especially one arriving seven years after the last theatrical entry.

For context, Solo: A Star Wars Story in 2018 opened to $84 million and was widely viewed as a disappointment. The current tracking for The Mandalorian and Grogu has put extra pressure on Disney’s marketing team, which may explain the aggressive attempt to create a viral, emotional moment with Pascal.

Is Pedro Pascal fatigue setting in?

Another topic gaining traction online is whether audiences are experiencing Pedro Pascal fatigue. The actor has been highly visible across multiple major projects in recent years, including The Last of Us, Gladiator II, and the upcoming Fantastic Four film.

While Pascal remains popular, some observers have suggested that constant exposure can lead to diminishing returns. Others argue that his likability and star power still make him a valuable asset for The Mandalorian and Grogu. How audiences actually feel about seeing him back as Din Djarin on the big screen will likely influence the film’s opening weekend performance.

The bigger picture

Disney clearly hoped the Pascal Disneyland moment would generate positive buzz and emotional connection ahead of the film’s May 22 release. Instead, the revelation that it was staged has fueled skepticism about the authenticity of the studio’s marketing.

Combined with modest early tracking and questions about overexposure, The Mandalorian and Grogu is facing a more challenging pre-release environment than some had expected. Early reactions to the movie itself have been mixed-to-positive, with some calling it a fun, crowd-pleasing summer adventure.

Whether the film can overcome the current marketing controversy and deliver strong word-of-mouth remains to be seen.

Article compiled and edited by Derek Gibbs (entertainment editor) and the Pirates and Princesses newsroom.

For more Disney, theme parks, geek lifestyle, and family entertainment coverage, visit piratesandprincesses.net. Watch the show on YouTube at @Disney-podcast. Subscribe to the Pirates and Princesses podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and wherever you get your podcasts.

Hat Tips:

• The Hollywood Reporter, reporting on the staged Pedro Pascal Disneyland encounter

• Box Office Theory and Deadline, early tracking for The Mandalorian and Grogu

• Social media reactions from participants and fans

That’s right. Early access will be canceled for one free Lightning Lane (per guest) for your entire stay.

What’s Changing?

Currently, guests staying at Disneyland Resort hotels can enter one park—either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure—30 minutes before public opening. This benefit allows access to select attractions, dining, and shopping.

• Disneyland Park offers early entry on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays

• Disney California Adventure opens early on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Lightning Lane Access Takes Holder

Beginning January 5, 2026, the early entry benefit ends. Instead, resort guests will receive one Lightning Lane access (operated via Disneyland’s paid skip-the-line system) to a ride within the Lightning Lane Multi Pass selection. Current attractions available include:

Disneyland Park:

• Autopia

• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters

• Haunted Mansion

• Indiana JonesTM Adventure

• “it's a small world”

• Matterhorn Bobsleds

• Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

• Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin

• Space Mountain

• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

• Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Disney California Adventure:

• Goofy's Sky School

• Grizzly River Run

• Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!

• Incredicoaster

• The Little Mermaid - Ariel's Undersea Adventure

• Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!

• Soarin' Around the World

• Toy Story Midway Mania!

• WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure

Why the Change?

Disney officials noted low utilization of the early entry privilege as a factor in the decision to discontinue the benefit. Given this shift, the Lightning Lane access is intended to serve as an alternative perk, though it applies to just one ride per stay.

This change will likely be unpopular with guests given the limited one pass per stay rule.

What do you think? Comment and let us know!

The new animatronic is part of the “Walt Disney - A Magical Life” show set to debut on July 17, 2025. The animatronic is in celebration of Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary.

Along with the new animatronic there will also be some new exhibits showcasing Walt Disney’s various accomplishments such as awards.

A video presentation entitled “Memories of Walt” will feature interviews from people who knew or worked with Walt Disney.

However, the animatronic doesn’t quite hit the mark.

While the animatronic does move like Walt Disney, it doesn’t really look like him.

Fans are split on what they think of it.

“Doesn’t look or sound at all like him….” - MacFanJohn3

“why did they give him an eyebrow lift? the eyes also do not looked spaced away from the nose. looks so off.” - scullyIam

“The hand movements are very smooth! I’m excited to see it in person.” - Just Ask Danny

“The execution is horrible. It's pretty bad taste, especially when he looks and sounds nothing like Walt.” - For the Love of E.T.

“Dear God. Have they ever seen a picture of Walt?”- Florida Dad

“the movement is wonderful - the voice and face looks slightly off though. Maybe it will look better in person. Possibly more makeup or better lighting? Still early - test and adjust.” - pbrsaau

“Pretty impressive but the eyes make him look so dead inside which makes the rest of it feel unsettling” - random stuff

“That’s genuinely amazing”- Just Just

“Super impressive AA, and I think it’s a really important attraction. Glad they did it. But…I don’t think they nailed his likeness.” - Brian LaFrazia

“The moves are impressive.. but that face..” - Spring summer

“Smack dab in the nadir of the uncanny valley” - I’m Not Ned

What do you think?

Is this a good Walt Disney or does it feel more like Wilt Frizney?

Comment and let us know!

The Vault Collection has a vintage/ retro feel that I love!

Prices range from $24.99 - $150.

Let’s take a look!

I am loving the clock! I have a soft spot for “it’s a small world”! The blown glass ticket ornament is also something that will likely be popular. Loving the helicopter hat too!

Again we have the retro/vintage look with the jacket, bucket hat, and Loungefly bag.

There is also a plaque replica available and I have some other ones and they are really nice!

I love the yellow sweatshirt. It is vintage in style yet modern at the same time.

Googly eyes Mickey Mouse is a fun concept, but will the eyes stay on long term? If they stay on will they get scratched up and cloudy?

What do you think? Which piece is your favorite?

Comment and let us know!

Prices range from $19.99-$79.99. Pieces include ornaments, accessories, a plush, household items, apparel, and a Funko Pop! featuring Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse.

You can purchase these items HERE.

Let’s take a look!

Among the new items are a Mickey Mouse T-shirt for women, and a skirt that looks like the Disneyland map. There is also a button-front woven shirt that looks like a map.

Other items include an ornament set, canvas tote, ball cap, and mini mugs.

Household items are also included like the Disneyland Map throw blanket and Disneyland “D” pillow. There is also a travel cup with straw and a Sleeping Beauty Castle mug available.

One piece some collectors might be excited about is the Mickey Mouse and Walt Disney Funko Pop! figure. Both are riding the Disneyland fire engine.

Also available is a retro ringer T-shirt, a hoodie, and a Mickey Mouse plush!

These pieces are available on the Disney Store right now!

What do you think? Comment and let us know!

There are several pieces in the collection including, jewelry, ears, a Starbucks tumbler,

Let’s take a look!

Sleeping Beauty Castle Starbucks® Travel Tumbler- $39.99

I love the gold with the purple/pink highlights.

Sleeping Beauty Castle Figure - $99

This piece is made of resin and measures 6 1/2'' H x 6'' W x 3'' D.

Rebecca Hook Castle necklace - $175

The necklace is made from Sterling silver and cubic zirconia with an 18” chain and 2” extender. The pendant measures 1 1/8'' H x 7/8'' W.

Rebecca Hook Castle earrings - $150

These earrings are also made from Sterling silver and cubic zirconia with a measurement of 7/8'' H x 5/8'' W.

Disneyland Anniversary Dress - $128

This new dress is done in gold and black with sizes ranging from XS-3X available.

Disneyland Sleeping Beauty Denim Jacket - $99.99

Sizes XS-3X are available.

Disneyland Woven Tote - $44.99

The tote measures approximately 10'' H x 13'' W x 6'' D. The handle drop is about 4 1/2'' L, and the strap drop is about 25'' L.

Disneyland 70th Anniversary Minnie Ears - $34.99

Quilted, simulated leather creates the bulk of this piece. Details are made up of shiny gold metallic icons.

Disneyland Sleeping Beauty Castle Glass Ball Ornament - $29.99

The ornament is made from resin and glass and measures 6'' H x 3 1/4'' Diameter.

Disney Castle Key Ornament - $24.99

The Castle Key measures Key: 5'' L. With the ribbon it hangs Hangs 9 3/4'' L.

Disneyland 70th Anniversary Mug - $24.99

This stoneware mug is microwave and dishwasher safe. It holds 15 oz and measures 4 3/4'' H x 3 1/4'' Diameter (5 1/2'' W at handle).

These pieces are available now.

What do you think? Comment and let us know!

Let’s take a look!

Pins

These items and more are available now on the Disney Store!

The attraction has been refreshed for Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebration this year.

Along with Miguel and Dante, a marigold bridge has been added up to the ceiling to represent the bridge from the film that allows the dead to traverse between the world of the living and the land of the dead.

The “it’s a small world” attraction is different in Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Besides having the iconic outdoor queue, Disneyland also has Disney story characters inside the attraction. These characters can be found in the areas that correspond to the location in their films.

What do you think? Comment and let us know!