News & Press Releases
Disney & Pixar Team Up with NASCAR Driver Casey Mears & Chicagoland Speedway to Bring the Cars “Take Flight” Experience to Race Fans
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Joliet, IL – September 14, 2012 – Today Disney•Pixar Cars fans teamed up
with NASCAR driver Casey Mears to wave the green flag and kick off the
Cars “Take Flight” experience during Chase weekend at Chicagoland
Speedway, Sept. 14-16. In celebration of the world television premieres
of the Cars Toons short films “Air Mater” and “Moon Mater” this fall on
Disney Channel, and the launch of a new Cars “Take Flight” product
collection, Disney has created a fun and immersive family experience for
race fans to enjoy the world of Cars.
NASCAR driver Casey Mears with little race fans wave the green flag to
launch the new Disney•Pixar Cars “Take Flight”
product line and family
experience during Chase weekend at Chicagoland Speedway, September 14 –
16.
Through Cars themed “pit stops” at Chicagoland Speedway Kids Zone in
Champions Park, the world of Cars is brought to life. Fans can snap
photos of the life-size LEGO® replica of Lightning McQueen made of
250,000 bricks, create Cars scenes at the puzzle building station, enjoy
story time, race against friends on the Cars video game, see the new
collectible die-cast cars and play with the products in the new “Take
Flight” collection. The new Cars “Take Flight” product line features
die-cast, race tracks, games, books and more and is available now at
retailers nationwide.
“The Cars Toons shorts have done a great job extending the storytelling
and fun that happens in the world of Cars,” said Mary Renner Beech,
senior vice president of licensing, Disney•Pixar animation, Disney
Consumer Products. “Likewise, Disney•Pixar product designers take the
story where only a child’s imagination can go through new toys and
products. And what better place for us to celebrate the new “Take
Flight” collection than right here at the Chicagoland Speedway during an
actual NASCAR race weekend.”
“A weekend at Chicagoland Speedway is about more than just the
excitement on the track,” said Scott Paddock, Chicagoland Speedway
president. “We want the entire family to enjoy memorable experiences
throughout their trip, whether it’s in the Kids Zone taking pictures
with the life-size Lightning McQueen, in Champions Park with free
entertainment or in our new infield fan experience. Our goal is to
deliver additional value to our fans and give the start of the Chase for
the NASCAR Sprint Cup the platform it deserves.”
Since its release in 2006, Cars has remained Disney Consumer Products’
leading boys franchise. Several of NASCAR’s biggest stars voiced
characters in the first two Cars films which have grossed over $1
billion in box office revenue, including Dale Earnhardt Jr., Jeff
Gordon, Richard Petty, Darrell Waltrip and Humpy Wheeler. New Cars Toons
animated film shorts released through Disney Channel and Walt Disney
Home Entertainment, continue to keep fans “revved up” about Cars. This
weekend only, the public can view Cars Toons in the Kids Zone, located
in Chicagoland Speedway’s Champions Park.
NASCAR driver Casey Mears and NFL Chicago Bears athlete Anthony Adams
and son at the Disney•Pixar Cars “Take Flight”
product line and family
experience in Gatorade Victory Lane at Chicagoland Speedway.
Chicagoland Speedway is the first race of the Chase for the NASCAR
Sprint Cup this September – the first of ten ‘playoff’ style NASCAR
Sprint Cup Series races in pursuit of the 2012 championship. The Dollar
General 300 powered by Coca-Cola NASCAR Nationwide Series will kick off
the weekend on Saturday, Sept. 15 with the GEICO 400 Chase for the
NASCAR Sprint Cup concluding the weekend on Sunday, Sept. 16.
For tickets to the GEICO® 400, the start of the Chase for the NASCAR
Sprint Cup, or the Dollar General® 300 powered by Coca-Cola®, visit www.ChicagolandSpeedway.com or call 1-888-629-RACE (7223).
For more information on Chicagoland Speedway stay connected on Twitter and Facebook or by visiting www.ChicagolandSpeedway.com.
For more information on the Cars franchise, please visit www.disneyconsumerproducts.com/press/us.
News & Press Releases
New Updates and Exclusive Content from Jim Hill Media: Disney, Universal, and More
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Boy oh boy, do I have some exciting news to share with all of you.
If you’ve been following our journey at Jim Hill Media, you know we’re all about peeling back the curtain to reveal behind the scenes insights, news, and history that surround the world of entertainment and theme parks.
And today, I’ve got a treasure trove of updates to share. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get into it.
A New Chapter on Patreon
As many of you know, we recently made the big leap over to Patreon, and let me tell you, it’s been quite a rollercoaster ride. This move was driven by your requests for more exclusive content (and the easy to use RSS feed and app is a BIG bonus).
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for your unwavering support. Your enthusiasm and engagement have been the driving force behind our passion for delivering the best of Disney and Universal content.
Moving to Patreon has opened new avenues for us to connect more deeply with our listeners, offering exciting perks and benefits that allow us to tailor our content more closely to your interests and preferences. It’s been an incredible journey of crafting special content, such as the launch of our video podcast series, [Disney Unpacked].
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[Disney Unpacked] – A Video Podcast Series Like No Other
Imagine sitting down for a chat with a Disney Imagineer who’s helped shape your Disney experiences for over three decades. That’s what we’re bringing to the table with [Disney Unpacked]. Alongside the legendary Jim Shull and my partner in crime Len Testa, we explore Disney’s storytelling, sharing how beloved rides and attractions were created, through the eyes of an Imagineer like Jim Shull who personally contributed to these projects.
It’s a rare opportunity to host a video show with Jim Shull, a Disney Imagineer who’s worked on projects like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Toontown for over 33 years. If you’re curious about Jim and his work, check out our “Meet Jim Shull” video.
But that’s not all – as a patron, you’ll gain access to even more exclusive content. Our “Carry On” podcast, where Jim Shull and I explore stories that didn’t quite make it into the main episodes, offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative process behind [Disney Unpacked]. Plus, our regular Q&A sessions give you the chance to get answers to all your burning questions about the show.
Beyond the Podcast: Photos and Artifacts from an Imagineers Personal Collection
And if that wasn’t exciting enough, let me introduce you to our brand-new monthly video show, “Picture This.” Hosted by yours truly alongside Jim Shull and moderated by Lauren Hersey, “Picture This” offers a behind-the-scenes look at Jim Shull’s personal collection of over 60,000 photos and artifacts from his 33-year career at Disney. From rare behind-the-scenes shots to exclusive glimpses of Disney history, this show is a must-watch for any serious Disney fan.
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The History of the Pixar Place Hotel
Recently, it was announced that Disneyland’s Paradise Pier hotel would be reopening as the Pixar Place Hotel.
Curious about the backstory behind this decision? Join Jim Shull and me as we delve into the history of the Pixar Place hotel. Explore its fascinating origins and gain insights into the inspirations drawn from Jim’s leadership on the Toy Story Hotel project at Shanghai Disney.
This YouTube documentary-style video offers a look into the creative process behind one of Disney’s iconic hotel projects.
Debut of “I Want That Too” Video Podcast
Introducing our newest podcast addition, “I Want That Too,” where Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the fascinating world of Disney products. From toys and collectibles to apparel and home goods, we’re here to unpack it all.
But we’re not just about the merchandise – join us as we explore the rich history and untold stories behind your favorite Disney goodies. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your Disney journey, there’s something for everyone on “I Want That Too.”
This show drops bi-weekly as a Podcast and a Video over on the Jim Hill Media YouTube Channel.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts today.
Welcoming Universal Fans with “Epic Universal” Podcast
And for all you Universal enthusiasts (or Universal Curious) out there, we’ve got you covered too! Introducing “Epic Universal,” a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Eric Hersey and yours truly.
Join us as we dive into the latest news, interviews, and trip planning tips from the Universal universe. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about what’s happening at Universal Studios, we invite you to join the conversation and stay updated with “Epic Universal.”
A Look Ahead: The Future of Jim Hill Media
Phew! It’s been an exhilarating few months at Jim Hill Media, with our Patreon move and new show launches, all dedicated to bringing you top-notch theme park news, insights, and history. Your support and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind our efforts, and we’re incredibly thankful for it.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the future, with more content and partnerships on the horizon. Whether you’re into Disney, Universal, Marvel, or Merch, we invite you to stay engaged and subscribe for more updates.
A huge thank you for being part of our journey.
News & Press Releases
Disney Will Bring D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event to Anaheim, California in August 2024
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Expanded Disney Fan Experience Will Feature New and Exciting Events Across Multiple Locations, Including a D23 Takeover of the Happiest Place On Earth, Evening Entertainment at the Honda Center, D23 Day at Angel Stadium, and Much More
Fan Favorites Including Exhibits, Panels, Shows, and Shopping Will Dazzle Disney Enthusiasts at the Anaheim Convention Center
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is a one-of-a-kind fan experience like never before with spectacular shows, new venues, and multiple days of entertainment that will bring together the best of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more!
Highlightswill include:
- Sunday, August 4: D23 Day at Angel Stadium, where D23 fans are invited to attend the Los Angeles Angels vs. New York Mets game.
- Thursday, August 8: D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort.
- Friday, August 9 – Sunday, August 11: Shopping, exhibits, panels, and presentations will take place at the Anaheim Convention Center during the day, with the fun extending into the evening at the Honda Center, the bigger home to marquee shows.
Tickets for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will go on sale in Spring 2024, with ticketing options to be announced later for access to the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center. Admission for D23 Day at Angel Stadium and the D23 kickoff celebration at Disneyland Resort will be available as separate ticketed events. Additional details for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will be announced in early 2024.
You can get updates by staying connected to D23 via social media (@DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X), D23.com, and our weekly D23 FanFare email (sign up for free as a D23 General Member at JoinD23.com).
About D23
The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his first studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s nearly 100-year history. It gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic year-round through its quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three; the latest news and stories on D23.com; member-exclusive offers and discounts; the popular D23 Inside Disney podcast; and special experiences for D23 Members throughout the year.
Fans can join D23 at Gold Membership ($99.99/year), Gold Duo Membership ($129.99/year), and General Membership (complimentary) levels at D23.com. To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow DisneyD23 on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube.
News & Press Releases
Star Wars Spoof: Space Robots in Outer Space Ep X: Battle for the Halcyon: The Last Starcruiser
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Sure, Star Wars is cool and all. But let’s not forget about that other multi-part sci-fi cinematic spectacular, “Space Robots in Outer Space.” In fact, Hank Lonely (Hollywood’s ultimate hyphenate — actor / producer / director / writer / guy who makes sure the Porto Potties are kept squeaky-clean) just announced that there’ll soon be a 10th installment of this … Well, not exactly beloved. How about we say “admired from afar” instead? … series coming to a theater near you. In fact, here’s the highly anticipated teaser trailer for that project. Which is supposed to be titled “Space Robots in Outer Space X — Battle for the Halycon: The Last Starcruiser.”
Okay. Now the real story … In honor of Star Wars Day (i.e., May 4th. As in “May the Fourth Be With You”), Len Testa and I are sharing something that we produced with the help of all the nice folks who joined us last month aboard the Halycon.
We turned the Galactic Starcruiser as well as Black Spire Outpost into the backdrop for an affectionate send-up of all things Stars Wars. We hope that you (more importantly, the legal team at Lucasfilm) take this faux trailer in the spirit with which it was intended. Special thanks to Aaron Adams for so skillfully stitching all of this footage together. Also thanks to the team at Storybook Destinations, Touring Plans and the talented cast & crew aboard the “Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser” for making this “Disney Dish” fan event so memorable.
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