“The Princess and The Frog” star Jennifer Cody is thrilled about the re-theming of Splash Mountain at Disney parks. The controversial ride, based on the 1946 film “Song of the South,” has faced criticism for its racist themes over the years. Now, it’s being replaced by Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, featuring the studio’s first Black princess.
Key Takeaway
Jennifer Cody, known for her role in “The Princess and The Frog,” praises Disney’s decision to re-theme Splash Mountain, emphasizing the importance of updating the attraction to reflect modern values. She expresses excitement for the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and hopes it will inspire visitors with Tiana’s admirable qualities.
Praising Disney’s Move
Jennifer Cody, known for her role as Charlotte La Bouff in the 2009 movie, has expressed her support for Disney’s decision to re-theme Splash Mountain. She applauds the company for acknowledging the need to update the attraction to align with modern values and sensibilities.
Addressing Racist Depictions
Splash Mountain’s association with “Song of the South” has long been a subject of controversy due to its racist depictions of Southern Black men and its portrayal of the antebellum South. Jennifer Cody emphasizes the importance of removing such hurtful and outdated representations from a popular Disney attraction.
Looking Ahead to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
The upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to open at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom this summer, followed by its debut at Disneyland Park in California later in the year. Jennifer is excited about the advanced animatronics featured in the new ride, highlighting the significance of showcasing the story of Disney’s first Black princess.
Inspiring Qualities
While appreciating Disney’s investment in Black stories, Jennifer hopes that visitors to the new attraction will not only recognize Tiana as a “Black princess” but also be inspired by her strong, courageous, and entrepreneurial qualities.
Anticipating Fan Response
Jennifer Cody is confident that the re-themed ride will be well-received by Disney enthusiasts. She expresses hope that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will captivate fans and potentially surpass the popularity of the beloved ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ ride.
