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If you head to Universal Orlando, you might be delighted to find that something is different. This change has been a long time coming!
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
When the Wizarding World of Harry Potter first came to Universal Orlando, it is safe to say that visitors were blown away. Truly, the area makes you feel as if you have stepped right into one of the movies!
And truly, it has remained one of the best areas in any theme park! The attention to every detail is careful and intentional from the impressive dragon in Diagon Alley down to the tiny crystals of the chandelier in the house below the great beast, just inside Gringots. It is an impressive design feat.
The food does not disappoint. Most everyone loves enjoying Butterbeer, chocolate frogs, and other stuff that once only existed between the pages of books.
And, of course, the rides are top-notch. Forbidden Journey and Escape from Gringots are unique and thrilling attractions that are worthy of repeat rides. Haggrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike adventure is one of the best rollercoasters anywhere.
Everything is just about perfect. Well, almost everything.
Hogwarts Express
One very popular attraction in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the Hogwarts Express. It runs back and forth between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure depositing and dropping off visitors at Hogsmeads Station or King’s Cross Station. You can even vanish through Platform 9 3/4 if you know how the trick works!
And, it is truly a charming ride. It offers a completely different experience each way. But, fans quickly identified a HUGE “ick”.
While everything else in the park is so faithful to the film, Hermione’s voice on the Hogwarts Express is not. In fact, it sounds nothing like her. Many fans find it offputting. In fact, fans have been BEGGING Universal to do something about it for quite some time.
UPDATE
Fans will be happy to know that as of November 2023, Hermione has a new voice. Universal quietly updated it, and it was indeed a happy surprise for regular visitors who happened to notice.
The new voiceover sounds more like the original actress. It is not a perfect match, but many people think it is indeed an improvement.
You can check it out now at Universal Orlando. But, be sure to check these refurbishment dates before you go since the ride will be down for a short time this winter.
Have you heard Hermione’s new voice on Hogwarts Express? What do you think of the update? Let us know in the comments. And be sure to pass this along to your friends who have been waiting for the changes!
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