The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Len Testa and Jim Hill discuss the latest updates and history behind Mickey’s PhilharMagic.Tune in for: Autonomous Vehicles at Fort Wilderness?: Could self-driving vehicles soon be delivering food and merchandise around this iconic resort? Jim and Len explore the potential future of tech at Disney. Occupancy Rates for Disney Vacation Club Resorts: Discover why DVC properties like the Grand Californian and Bay Lake Tower are at the top of the occupancy charts and what makes them so popular. The Legend of the Lion King: Jim dives deep into the history of this fan-favorite stage show, detailing the ambitious production, massive puppetry, and how it paved the way for future Disney attractions. This episode is filled with Disney news, unique history, and some listener questions.SHOW NOTES Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey discuss the fascinating history and rise of Disney Villains in the parks, from their early appearances to the exciting new Villains Land coming to Magic Kingdom.They discuss how the villains have transformed from side characters to central attractions. What We Cover:The announcement of Villains Land at Magic Kingdom and what we know so far.Concept art and ride speculation, including a potential Maleficent roller coaster.How Disney is competing with Universal's Monsters Land.The history of Disney Villains in the parks.Special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Villains After Hours.New villain merchandise, including some limited edition finds. Upcoming villain-themed shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.The Story Behind Cinderellas Castle Mystery Tour Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the fascinating tale of how the Looney Tunes almost became part of Universal Orlando’s second gate.A listener question sparked a deep dive into the history of these iconic characters and their long-standing presence at Six Flags.Jim uncovers the intricate details behind Universal’s interest in the Looney Tunes, and the potential licensing challenges that ultimately led to a different path for Universal.Also in this episode: Eric’s family trip to Hershey Park’s Dark Nights and what it taught him about Halloween Horror Nights. Updates from New York Comic Con about Universal’s Epic Universe panel. Honoring Dame Maggie Smith with a special tribute. A look at the new Harry Potter experiences at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Fan Fest Nights. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at Universal Studios Hollywood? Jim and Eric NEED YOUR HELP! Get ready for a nostalgic dive into theme park history, character licensing, and some fun behind-the-scenes insights! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Hill starts a solo edition of this podcast by discussing how well “The Wild Robot” did at the domestic box office this past weekend.He then discusses the Halloween-themed “The Bad Guys” special which will soon be debuting on NetflixThroughout this episode, listeners will learn about:How will Warner Bros. Discovery be celebrating Scooby Doo this monthWho will be introducing “The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie” at this year’s Animation is Film FestivalWhat did the “Mufasa: The Lion King” production do to differentiate this film from Disney’s photo-realistic “Lion King” from 2019Where did “Shrek the Musical” do its out-of-town try-outWhy was Jeffery Katzenberg reportedly upset with a plaque he found in the lobby of the Broadway Theater Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa and Jim Hill start this week’s episode by sharing asurvey the Universal Orlando Resort recently sent out.They then look back at the 3D movie that eventually led to “Mickey’s PhilharMagic”Over the course of this show, listeners will learn about:Why Rodney Dangerfield’s obituary may be the funniest story that the LosAngeles Times ever ranHow does an RIP Tour compare to a HHN Express PassWhy it’s unlikely that Disney will ever build a just-for-kids theme park at its FloridaResortSHOW NOTESWhat’s the name of that 3D Donald Duck cartoon that used to run on a double billat the Fantasyland theaterHow did Dick Nunis feel about “The Mickey Mouse Revue” attraction at WDW’sMagic Kingdom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this spellbinding episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the magical world of Hocus Pocus.Discover the behind-the-scenes drama that almost changed the film and how it went from box office flop to a Halloween cult classic.If you're a fan of the Sanderson Sisters or curious about Disney's decision-making, this episode is packed with must-know details! The unexpected origins of Hocus Pocus and how An American Tail influenced its creation. Why Hocus Pocus struggled at the box office in 1993 but found its footing in the mid-2000s. How Bette Midler’s insistence on her character’s “rat teeth” almost led to a showdown with Disney executives. The evolution of Hocus Pocus merch, from Target tees to limited-edition Monster High dolls. Insider stories from Shannon Carlin’s Witches Run Amok, featuring never-before-heard details about the making of the movie. If you love Hocus Pocus or want to know more about Disney’s journey with this iconic film, don’t miss this episode! Listen now on your Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the fascinating and perplexing world of Toon Lagoon at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.They unravel the mystery behind this quirky theme park area and explore why Universal chose to dedicate an entire land to classic comic strip characters.From the backstory of its creation to the impact it has on park guests, Jim shares insider stories and industry insights that shed light on the often-overlooked Toon Lagoon.Highlights include: The origins of Toon Lagoon and the vision behind its development. How the park navigated licensing and character rights for this unique area. Behind-the-scenes stories about the creation of water rides like Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges and Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls. The lasting influence (or lack thereof) of Toon Lagoon on Universal’s theme park strategy. Whether you’re a fan of splash-filled adventures or curious about the decision-making that goes into building a theme park land, this episode offers a deep dive into one of Universal’s most unusual creations.Tune in and discover the story behind Toon Lagoon! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor discuss the surprising news of Jennifer Lee stepping down as Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios and what it means for the future of Disney’s animated films.They explore: Jennifer Lee’s New Role: How she’s shifting her focus to the upcoming Frozen 3 and Frozen 4. Jared Bush Takes the Lead: What does this creative shake-up mean for Disney, and what projects might be on the horizon? Pixar’s Pressure to Perform: The intense working conditions at Pixar and the studio’s struggle to produce hits like Inside Out 2 and Elio amidst high expectations and long hours.Plus, hear the latest updates on DreamWorks’ Dog Man, The Wild Robot, and more!Don’t miss this deep dive into the latest animation industry news and insights. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Len Testa and Jim Hill bring you the latest updates and an in-depth look at Disney’s past, present, and future.Tune in as they cover: Exclusive Interview: Special guest Ricky Debler Jr. from Palmas Restaurant Group shares the inside story behind their iconic Disney dining locations and the evolution of La Cava del Tequila. Disney Treasure Updates: Get the scoop on the newest details for Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming ship. Disney Surveys: Find out what surprising questions Disney is asking guests about their park experiences. The Untold Story of Big Thunder Mountain: Jim wraps up his series on the history of this beloved attraction and reveals the ambitious plans that never made it to Disneyland.Dive into the latest news, fascinating history, and a few laughs in this can’t-miss episode!SHOW NOTES Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill shares the untold story of the Monsters Inc. coaster Disney almost built over a decade ago.You'll learn about the original plans, why it was shelved, and what details were accidentally leaked to cast members before the official announcement.Lauren Hersey dives into the lasting popularity of Monsters University merch, especially the famous MU hat. If you're curious about Disney's past plans, the latest in Monsters Inc. products, and future theme-park developments, this is the episode for you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices