Today In Disney History ~ February 7th
“The attraction was announced on February 7, 2008, although specifics were not made public at that time. American Idol season six winner Jordin Sparks unveiled its official name and projected opening date during the American Idol season seven finale on May 21, 2008.
Disney licensed the show’s logos and set design from American Idol’s production companies, 19 Entertainment and FremantleMedia. The attraction is located in the “Superstar Television Theater” (formerly the “ABC TV Theater”), which originally was home to Superstar Television, one of the first attractions to open at the park in 1989. The show took place of Doug Live!, which ran from 1999 to 2001.
The attraction’s grand opening took place on February 14, 2009, with occasional preview performances in the weeks leading up to the official opening. A press event just prior to the official opening featured many “Idol” celebrities, including all seven winners, numerous finalists, host Ryan Seacrest, judge Paula Abdul and “American Idol” creator Simon Fuller.
The American Idol Experience has been promoted by winners of the American Idol from Season seven onward by appearing in commercials and announcing “I’m going to Disney World!”
In June 2014, Disney announced that the show would close in January 2015, then two months later they moved up the closure date to the end of August 2014. The show’s final performances were on August 30, 2014.”
TMSM Today in Graphic by Sherry Rinaldi DeHart; Info From Wiki
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.
- Breaking! LL Premier Pass offered to all WDW Resorts - November 22, 2024
- “Dream Productions” coming to Disney+ in December - November 20, 2024
- Holiday savings on Drawn to Life by Cirque and Disney - November 19, 2024