ABC Two-Hour Special Celebrating 50 Years of Disney World

 by Beth Keating

News

DisneyBizJournal.com

October 1, 2021

 

A star-studded spectacular will air on ABC tonight, October 1, celebrating Disney World’s 50th Anniversary. Hosted by Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg, the two-hour program is entitled “The Most Magical Story on Earth: 50 Years of Walt Disney World,” and will offer up performances from Christina Aguilera and Halle Bailey, as well as the music of the “50” piece Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. 

In addition to the musical performances, the evening will be interspersed with historical footage, interviews, stories, reminiscences, tributes, and great Disney World memories. The ABC/2020 show was produced by ABC News and Disney Parks.

 

“This EARidescent special event will take viewers through Walt Disney World’s humble beginnings in the swamplands of Florida and its evolution into a cultural phenomenon,” notes the Disney Parks Blog. “Through an expansive look into the past, present, and future of the vacation destination, footage never before seen on television will give fans a glimpse into the journey to bring Walt’s vision to life and a look at plans for the future. The special will also spotlight some of Walt Disney World’s most memorable pop-culture moments, from the many sitcoms that filmed episodes in the theme parks to the conception of the ubiquitous ‘I’m going to Disney World!’ campaign. Plus, viewers will get a heartwarming look at how Disney and Make-A-Wish foundation have worked together for over 40 years to make kids’ Disney dreams come true.”

 

Among others, the evening will include appearances by Disney creators Kevin Feige, Pete Docter, and James Cameron; Walt Disney World Imagineers Bob Weis, Mark Kohl, and Ann Morrow Johnson; past and present Disney executives Bob Chapek, Bob Iger, and Michael Eisner; and celebrities Anthony Anderson, John Stamos, Marsai Martin, Gary Sinise, Melissa Joan Hart, Candace Cameron Bure, Tom Brady, Phil Simms, and Doug Williams.

 

Viewers can tune in tonight at 8 pm ET (7 pm CT) on their local ABC station, or stream the show on Hulu starting October 2.  If you don’t mind waiting, you can also watch on Disney+ beginning October 8. 

 

Happy 50th, Disney World!

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Beth Keating is a regular contributor to DisneyBizJournal.

 

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