Disney cuts the original Haunted Mansion character
The Haunted Mansion is known around the world as 999 Happy Haunts, but recent developments surrounding the mansion have revealed a massive change in tradition. A new update appears to leave Disney’s greatest ghost story with one missing person.
Constance Hatchway, Madame Liotta, and the infamous Ghost of Hatbox are just a few of the lively characters roaming the halls of Gracey Manor, and most experienced Disney fans can instantly recognize them. However, this level of dedication also comes as a double-edged sword, especially when they notice that Disney has tampered with their beloved attraction.
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It would be an understatement to say that this attraction has a huge fan base, as the Haunted Mansion has spawned its own line of merchandise, a book series, a podcast, and two feature films. A recent news report from Disney shared that a new experience surrounding the ride will be coming soon, but not without a major change to the story.
The haunted mansion drowns the sea captain
If you’re one of the many fans who are well versed in the Haunted Mansion’s backstory, you’ll already know about this neat history surrounding the character of the sea captain. Whether he was known as Captain Gore, Captain Clyne, Mariner, or simply Captain, the attraction always had a mysterious and sinister specter in his backstory.
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Even though Disney Imagineers moved him from a starring role to a background character, it’s something the mansion has never been without. From the original at Disneyland to the Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris, there have been some variations of the Sea Captain in one way or another.
The character has always had an ominous vibe, steeped in mystery, and that’s part of what makes him so memorable. However, Disney’s latest Haunted Mansion endeavor completely removes these elements while bringing it on board the cruise ship.
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As mentioned before, almost every incarnation of the Haunted Mansion had some form of sea captain, be it as a murderous pirate, a pickled sailor in a salt coffin, or even a steamship driver. However, the new Haunted Mansion strip does away with the character, replacing him with a different type of sailor.
Disney Treasure is the newest addition to Disney Cruise Line, and is definitely designed for the hardcore Disney fan. One of the biggest draws about the ship is the number of features and activities for adults, including a haunted mansion-themed bar.
The Haunted Mansion Parlor will feature many familiar sights, sounds and sights from the famous ride, but one of the most notable installations in this new story is the spectral sea captain figure taking center stage.
Disney describes the place as,
“From inspiring craft cocktails and an exclusive on-board merchandise collection to nostalgic décor and beloved characters, the Haunted Mansion Parlor will immerse guests in the next chapter of the Haunted Mansion saga, bringing these fan-favorite traditions to life in a whole new way. The unique experience will A thrilling awakening like no other, the experience of a cheerful captain who enters the world of ghosts after a disastrous dinner with his beloved fiancée.
The “funny” Captain is a far cry from the version most Disney fans know, and this writer can’t help but feel a little cheated by some. Of all the places available for imagineers to expand on a classic idea from the days of Haunted Mansion development, a cruise ship is the perfect ground to bring the mysterious sailor to life and expand upon it.
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Although it can still be argued that the Haunted Mansion is not without a Captain-inspired character and that Disney has elevated it to the level of a Ghost Host character (especially if the image is correct), it still feels lost. an opportunity. However, Palace fans will also likely find favor with this new spirit and raise a terrible glass to his career as the Disney treasure sets sail.
Do you think Disney missed a huge, terrible opportunity? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments below!
