Find Out Who Is Replacing Ariel at Hollywood Studios

A big character shakeup has affected all Walt Disney World Theme Parks, and we finally know who is replacing Ariel. We did not expect this one!

Walt Disney World Changes

One thing that sets Disney Parks apart from other Theme Parks is so many great character meet and greets. We all love classic characters like Mickey and his pals, but many Disney fans love rare meet-and-greets.

Animation Courtyard permanently closed on September 25, 2025. This affected both Star Wars Launch Bay and the theater that has been host to Disney Jr Play and Dance.

Disney was quick to update Disney's Hollywood Studios physical park maps and the map on the My Disney Experience app. This did change several Star Wars character meet and greet locations.

Ariel Meet and Greet Changing

Walt Disney Presents is located at Disney's Hollywood Studios in Animation Courtyard. Disney promised that while much work is being completed for the new "Magic of Disney Animation" area that both "The Little Mermaid- A Musical Adventure" and "Walt Disney Presents" will remain open.

Now another change has occurred inside "Walt Disney Presents," affecting the meet and greet location for the live-action Little Mermaid.

Starting today, October 28, 2025, the live-action Ariel meet and greet is now located at Echo Lake near 50's Prime Time Cafe.

Meeting Santa at Hollywood Studios

Initially, Disney did not announce the reason for this location change. Many Disney fans still remain hopeful that when one character location closes that this may open up room for the promised Bluey character meet and greet that Disney promised back in December 2024.

Santa Claus will greet guests at Walt Disney Presents from November 7, 2025, until December 24, 2025

A new addition on the My Disney Experience app hints at who may be replacing the live-action Ariel. It now appears that all guests can meet Santa Claus during normal operating hours, and Jollywood Nights guests can meet Santa Duffy.

This early closure would allow this space to receive a fun holiday overlay. Previously, guests could meet Santa Claus at "It's a Wonderful Shop" located in Muppets Courtyard.

What do you think of this character change? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.