Disney Unveils Tiana's Bayou Adventure as Splash Mountain Replacement Amid Racial Justice Calls

In response to heightened calls for racial justice during the summer of 2020, Disney announced plans to replace Splash Mountain, a beloved flume ride with a controversial racist backstory. After decades of operation, the attraction's ties to the racially insensitive film "Song of the South" prompted widespread criticism.

While some applauded Disney's decision to retire Splash Mountain, others expressed disappointment and resistance to the change. Nevertheless, Disney pressed forward with its plans and is now rolling out Tiana's Bayou Adventure, a new ride based on "The Princess and the Frog," Disney's first animated film featuring a Black princess.

Scheduled to open to the public on June 28 at Disney World, Tiana's Bayou Adventure is set to arrive at Disneyland by the end of the year. The ride, utilizing the same tracks as Splash Mountain, offers a lighthearted journey through a Mardi Gras celebration, following Tiana and her friend Louis, an alligator, as they search for critters to form a band.

The redesign aims to celebrate diversity and inclusion, with nods to New Orleans' multicultural heritage and a catchphrase emphasizing inclusivity: "Everybody's welcome." Anika Noni Rose, who voices Tiana in the film, hailed the project as a significant step in representation, particularly for young Black children.

Despite initial backlash and concerns about the overhaul, Disney executives remain optimistic about the reception of Tiana's Bayou Adventure. Josh D'Amaro, Disney's theme park chairman, emphasized the company's commitment to evolving its attractions while honoring beloved characters and stories.

While early online reactions have been mixed, with some expressing reservations about the ride's perceived lack of tension, those who have experienced Tiana's Bayou Adventure firsthand have offered overwhelmingly positive feedback. Social media influencer Victoria Wade praised the ride's immersive experience and contribution to Tiana's ongoing story, while Disney superfan Drew Smith commended the ride's excellence, urging skeptics to reserve judgment until they've experienced it themselves.

With the debut of Tiana's Bayou Adventure, Disney aims to not only entertain guests but also to promote diversity, inclusion, and the enduring legacy of characters like Tiana, whose story resonates across generations.