The Disney Dish with Jim Hill The Patent That May Have Cracked Disney’s Encanto Ride - Plus the Secrets of Castle Care (Ep. 565)
Jan 5, 2026
Delve into the intriguing world of Disney as the hosts discuss a newly revealed patent that hints at holographic characters for the upcoming Encanto attraction. They also explore the ongoing challenges of maintaining Disney's iconic castles, from repainting to drainage repairs. There's news about a new character, Buddy, coming to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, and updates on EPCOT's Glittering Greenhouses. With personal anecdotes and a glimpse into Imagineer Kim Irvine's impressive career, this episode is packed with Disney magic and history!
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Plan Around Post-Show Transport Delays
- Expect added attractions like Villains Land to increase peak exit congestion at Magic Kingdom.
- Plan arrivals and departures around extended waits for monorail, ferry, and buses to avoid long exit lines.
Barefoot Run On The Castle Lawn
- Jim Hill ran barefoot on the grass in front of Cinderella Castle during a pre-opening TV shoot.
- He recalls the grass felt magical and praises Disney's horticulture teams for their work.
Wandering An Empty Disneyland At Night
- Jim Hill attended Disneyland's 30th all-night party and explored the empty park alone.
- He watched characters practicing, noting they remained in love with the place even without guests.