Podcasts about universal orlando resort

It is finally that time of year! We reveal our hype list for houses, zones, and shows for Halloween Horror Nights 35 at Universal Studios Florida. Sinners and Stranger Things may be the headliner IP's but will they comes anywhere close to the top of our hype lists? Want to be on the show? Leave us a voicemail! (407) 906-4134 Follow HHN 365 on social media: Instagram HHN365 Twitter @HHN365 TikTok: @HHN365pod Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/jUD9nZav2U Merch: HHN365.com Featured audio is courtesy of White Bat Audio

Next weekend is the grand opening of Universal Orlando Resort’s annual scary event – Halloween Horror Nights. For the 35th anniversary, we have so many amazing things to get excited for. From incredible IPs like Sinners, Hellraiser, and Stranger Things, to returning icons Jack the Clown and Dr. Oddfellow. This year has incredible entertainment as well from a high-octane stage performance and lagoon show to the Dead Coconut Club and Club Horror. Today, we are giving you all of the details, how to make the most of the event, and our biggest tips and tricks if you’ve never been. Will you be there for opening weekend? Enjoy! This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations. For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney and Universal Vacations, visit https://www.fantasticalvacations.com We would love you to join us on Patreon! Thanks so much for supporting the show. We also have Addicted to the Mouse Merchandise! You can check it out at https://addictedtothemerch.com Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Sunday for the podcast. Join us every Sunday and Wednesday evening as we take you to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, on Disney Cruise Line, Universal Studios and everywhere in between! We can be found at www.addictedtothemouse.com and be reached at danandleslie@addictedtothemouse.com Please also connect with us here: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/addictedtothemouse Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@AddictedtotheMouse Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AddictedtotheMouse/ Instagram – https://instagram.com/addictedtothemouse/ The post Halloween Horror Nights 35: The Ultimate Universal Orlando Survival Guide for 2026 appeared first on Addicted to the Mouse.

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey trace the unlikely journey of Stranger Things from the Duffer Brothers' rejected pitch to one of Netflix's defining franchises - and a recurring Halloween Horror Nights favorite. They revisit how Universal translated Hawkins and the Upside Down into elaborate haunted houses, why the creative partnership worked so well, and how those early attractions helped prove that fans wanted to physically step inside Netflix's worlds. Then Jim and Eric bring the story up to the present with Netflix House in Philadelphia and the latest Stranger Things experience headed to Halloween Horror Nights 35. FEATURE • How Matt and Ross Duffer turned their original Montauk concept into Stranger Things after a string of network rejections. • Why the show's mix of Stephen King, Steven Spielberg, John Carpenter, 1980s nostalgia, and breakout young performers became a cultural phenomenon. • How Stranger Things first came to Halloween Horror Nights in 2018, with the Duffer Brothers giving Universal extensive creative access. • The painstaking work behind recreating Hawkins, the Byers house, the Upside Down, and the Demogorgon for Universal Orlando and Hollywood. • Why the 2019 and 2023 Stranger Things houses evolved differently on each coast rather than becoming simple clones. • Jim and Eric's visit to Netflix House at King of Prussia and its immersive Stranger Things experience. • How Netflix expanded Stranger Things into touring experiences, live theater, permanent attractions, and other extensions beyond the streaming series. • What Halloween Horror Nights 35 could represent as one of the final major theme park celebrations of Hawkins and its characters. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com• Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey | Instagram: @erichersey | strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews• YouTube: @jimhillmedia• TikTok: @jimhillmedia• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Planning a Universal Orlando Resort vacation? The travel professionals at BeOurGuestVacations.com offer personalized concierge service to help with resort stays, theme park tickets, and special extras for your Universal adventure. Be sure to mention that the Epic Universal Podcast sent you.If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Murdy hosted his annual Halloween Horror Nights panel at Midsummer Scream and it finalized the HHN 2026 lineup. Art the Clown will be taking over the Terror Tram, long rumored originals are confirmed, and the shock of the night comes as Murdy reveals that Nikki from Obsession will be featured at the event. In Orlando, construction for HHN 35 is coming very close to completion and we've been treated to a ton of the food and beverage items that will be available this year. Want to be on the show? Leave us a voicemail! (407) 906-4134 Follow HHN 365 on social media: Instagram HHN365 Twitter @HHN365 TikTok: @HHN365pod Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/jUD9nZav2U Merch: HHN365.com Featured audio is courtesy of White Bat Audio

We're heading outside the Disney bubble for a full Universal Orlando trip report! On this episode, we're recapping our recent stay and everything we experienced across Universal's Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, including 18 attractions, plenty of snacks, some seriously wet water rides, and one of the biggest questions we had going into the trip: just how valuable is Universal Express Pass? We worked our way through nine attractions at each park, from The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and Jurassic World VelociCoaster to Revenge of the Mummy, E.T. Adventure, MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack, and Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts. Along the way, we tracked the posted standby wait for every attraction and compared it with how long we actually waited using Express. And the results were pretty eye-opening. We also talk about our stay at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, transportation, park entry, and some of the food and snacks we tried along the way, including Butterbeer, a Honeydukes pumpkin pastry, and the wonderfully strange Pizza Dog. Then we wrap everything up by looking at the actual cost of Unlimited Express during our visit and answering if would we pay for it separately? Does staying at a Signature Universal resort where Express is included completely change the value equation? And beyond simply saving time, did Express make the entire Universal experience better?

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the latest Universal news before tracing the surprisingly humble origins of Universal Studios Hollywood's Prop Plaza. They cover Art the Clown taking over the Terror Tram, new Halloween Horror Nights experiences, Fast & Furious coaster construction on both coasts, and Universal Hollywood's efforts to address neighborhood noise concerns. Then Jim tells the story of MCA executive Albert Dorskind, the struggling Universal commissary, and how a simple tourist lunch stop helped set the stage for the modern Studio Tour. NEWS • Art the Clown from the Terrifier films takes over the Terror Tram at Universal Studios Hollywood for Halloween Horror Nights 2026. • Nikki from Obsession is set to roam Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood as a surprise character encounter. • Universal Hollywood introduces daytime Unmasking the Horror lights-on tours through select Halloween Horror Nights houses. • Additional sound barriers are being installed near Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift as Universal responds to neighborhood noise concerns. • Track installation is now complete on the new Fast & Furious coaster under construction at Universal Studios Florida. FEATURE • How MCA executive Albert Dorskind transformed Universal's money-losing studio commissary by inviting Hollywood sightseeing buses onto the lot. • Why tourist demand convinced Universal that visitors wanted more than lunch - they wanted to see how movies and television were made. • How the success of the original 1964 Universal Studio Tour led to the creation of Prop Plaza as a midway stop for food, restrooms, props, and entertainment. • From giant Land of the Giants props and a coin-operated Model T to early stunt performers and the A-Team van, Prop Plaza became an early blueprint for interactive Universal attractions. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey | Instagram: @erichersey | strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Planning a Universal vacation? The travel professionals at BeOurGuestVacations.com can work with you one-on-one to build a trip around the hotel, tickets, and extras that matter most to you. Whether you are headed to Universal Orlando Resort, Epic Universe, or Universal Studios Hollywood, mention that the Epic Universal Podcast sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey catch up on the latest Universal news, from Halloween Horror Nights announcements in Hollywood to some changes underway at Universal Studios Florida. They also discuss whether Universal could ever follow Disney into the cruise business and look back at a WaterWorld performer whose run spanned three decades. Then Jim traces the surprising history of Hard Rock Cafe and explains how a restaurant built before Universal Studios Florida even opened grew into a major part of the Universal Orlando Resort. NEWS • Killer Klowns from Outer Space returns to Halloween Horror Nights with a new house at Universal Studios Hollywood. • The Purge: Dangerous Waters is returning to the WaterWorld arena as a nighttime stunt spectacular. • Longtime WaterWorld performer Greg Dolph receives a sendoff after 30 years playing the Deacon at Universal Studios Hollywood. • Universal Studios Florida's entrance arch gets a fresh coat of paint as work continues around the park entrance. • Jim and Eric consider whether Universal could someday test the waters of the cruise industry. FEATURE • The upcoming closure of Miami's longtime Hard Rock Cafe sends Jim back to the chain's unlikely beginnings in London. • Learn how Hard Rock arrived at Universal Studios Florida two months before the theme park itself opened in 1990. • Jim explains how the original guitar-shaped restaurant became an unexpected observation post for curious Walt Disney World executives. • From CityWalk and the Coliseum of Rock to the Hard Rock Hotel, discover how the brand became deeply connected to Universal Orlando - and what eventually happened to that original restaurant. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey | Instagram: @erichersey | strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Planning your next Universal Orlando Resort adventure? Let the experts at Be Our Guest Vacations take care of the details. Their travel professionals provide personalized concierge service and can help with your resort stay, theme park tickets, and special extras from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic Park to Epic Universe. Be sure to mention that the Epic Universal Podcast sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The announcements have not stopped coming! Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness, Downtown Clowntown ft. Art the Clown and Killer Klowns From Outer Space, Fortnitemares, and Dead Deader Deadest are all on the agenda today. We have also received nearly the slate of merch coming to Halloween Horror Nights this year. And construction seemingly never stops in both Orlando and Hollywood. HHN 35 and HHN 2026 are soooooo close. Want to be on the show? Leave us a voicemail! (407) 906-4134 Follow HHN 365 on social media: Instagram HHN365 Twitter @HHN365 TikTok: @HHN365pod Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/jUD9nZav2U Merch: HHN365.com Featured audio is courtesy of White Bat Audio

his week on Dis After Dark, I'm joined by one of the nicest blokes in the theme park community, Ryan, co-host of the brilliant Theme Park Trader podcast.Ryan steps into the hot seat to tackle ten questions designed to unlock his favourite Orlando memories, biggest opinions, and toughest choices. What follows is a bloody good chat full of nostalgia, laughs, plenty of beer talk, and a genuine love for everything that makes Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort so special.From first trips and favourite places to controversial food opinions, extinct attractions and dream purchases, we cover it all. As always, the questions are just the beginning—the real fun comes from the stories, memories and inevitable tangents that follow.1. The Orlando Origin StoryLet's start with your official stats: Cast your mind back to that very first trip—do you remember where you stayed, and how many times have you been back since to crush that initial visit?2. The Core Memory TriggerWhat is the very first specific sensory detail—a smell, a sound, or a view—that instantly makes you think, "I'm finally back in Orlando"?3. The Hill to Die OnWhat is your most controversial, hill-to-die-on theme park food or drink opinion? (And yes... we'll absolutely judge you if it involves Turkey Legs.)4. Permanent ResidencyIf Disney or Universal allowed you to live in any ride, land or resort permanently, rent-free, where would you move?5. The Time Machine ButtonYou get one chance to bring back any extinct Orlando attraction for one final ride. What are you choosing?6. The Shameless Guilty PleasureWhat's the attraction or show that everyone else seems to skip, but you refuse to miss on every single trip?7. The Merch ConfessionalWhat's the most ridiculous, oversized or overpriced piece of theme park merchandise you've ever bought... and where is it now?8. The First-Timer TrapIf you could introduce someone to just one land or area in Orlando to completely blow their mind, where would you take them first?9. The $500 Flash ChallengeYou're handed a $500 gift card that must be spent in the next hour inside the parks or at Disney Springs/CityWalk. What are you buying?10. The Perfect NightcapAfter the perfect park day, are you squeezing into the hub for fireworks, riding Hagrid's after dark, or relaxing with a quiet drink in a resort lounge?And, of course, we finish with our rapid-fire Either/Or round, where Ryan has to make ten impossible Orlando choices with absolutely no sitting on the fence!If you love Orlando, great conversations between friends, and hearing why certain moments, places and even beers become part of our holiday traditions, you're going to love this episode.Grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy!The 10 questions

Universal Studios is launching two Ozzy Osbourne-inspired haunted houses designed to take guests on a 'Crazy Train' trip through his life and career. The two new developments are coming to Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, and will cover the decades of his life and his creative output. Entertainment correspondent Steve Newall explained further. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Len Testa and Jim Hill examine a revealing new Disney survey asking whether guests trust DisneyWorld.com, whether the site acts in their best interest, and whether it should be considered the definitive source for vacation planning. They also discuss Disney's questions about Epic Universe, softer attendance and dining demand, and the growing complexity of planning a theme park vacation. Then Jim continues the history of Imagineering's Living Characters Initiative by tracing the path from Mickey's Toon Elevator and Fashion Chat with Cruella de Vil to Stitch's Photophone, the interactive Disneyland experiment that helped pave the way for Turtle Talk with Crush. NEWS • Disney surveys guests about whether they trust DisneyWorld.com to provide transparent, accurate, and helpful vacation information. • New survey questions explore whether Disney's website should be considered the source of truth over independent planning sites. • Disney asks Epic Universe visitors whether Universal added days to their vacations or pulled attendance away from Walt Disney World. • Comcast reports continued strength at Epic Universe alongside softer performance across the broader Universal Orlando Resort. • Slower table-service dining demand raises questions about Lightning Lane habits, pricing, GLP-1 medications, and Disney's future restaurant strategy. FEATURE • Imagineering searches for the right Disney character to lead a real-time interactive experience. • Mickey Mouse proves too polite, while Cruella de Vil proves too intimidating for younger guests. • Stitch's Photophone opens inside Disneyland's Innoventions shortly after the release of Lilo & Stitch. • Cast members use cameras, voice performance, pre-animated movements, and personalized jokes to bring Stitch to life. • The attraction's limited capacity helps Imagineering rethink the format and develop the larger-scale experience that became Turtle Talk with Crush. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social - Instagram: @len.testa - touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Plan your next Disney vacation with BeOurGuestVacations.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa and Jim Hill examine a revealing new Disney survey asking whether guests trust DisneyWorld.com, whether the site acts in their best interest, and whether it should be considered the definitive source for vacation planning. They also discuss Disney's questions about Epic Universe, softer attendance and dining demand, and the growing complexity of planning a theme park vacation. Then Jim continues the history of Imagineering's Living Characters Initiative by tracing the path from Mickey's Toon Elevator and Fashion Chat with Cruella de Vil to Stitch's Photophone, the interactive Disneyland experiment that helped pave the way for Turtle Talk with Crush. NEWS • Disney surveys guests about whether they trust DisneyWorld.com to provide transparent, accurate, and helpful vacation information. • New survey questions explore whether Disney's website should be considered the source of truth over independent planning sites. • Disney asks Epic Universe visitors whether Universal added days to their vacations or pulled attendance away from Walt Disney World. • Comcast reports continued strength at Epic Universe alongside softer performance across the broader Universal Orlando Resort. • Slower table-service dining demand raises questions about Lightning Lane habits, pricing, GLP-1 medications, and Disney's future restaurant strategy. FEATURE • Imagineering searches for the right Disney character to lead a real-time interactive experience. • Mickey Mouse proves too polite, while Cruella de Vil proves too intimidating for younger guests. • Stitch's Photophone opens inside Disneyland's Innoventions shortly after the release of Lilo & Stitch. • Cast members use cameras, voice performance, pre-animated movements, and personalized jokes to bring Stitch to life. • The attraction's limited capacity helps Imagineering rethink the format and develop the larger-scale experience that became Turtle Talk with Crush. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social - Instagram: @len.testa - touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Plan your next Disney vacation with BeOurGuestVacations.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Desc: God of War Laufey has a release date. Plus, Tomb Raider: Catalyst is indeed delayed to 2028, as many had suspected. Kim has all that and more in your Daily Fix! Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

Thinking about going to Halloween Horror Nights 35 at Universal Orlando Resort? Simon and Phill break down every HHN35 Fear Pass, including the Rush of Fear Pass, Frequent Fear Pass, Frequent Fear Plus Pass, Ultimate Frequent Fear Pass, Express Pass and the R.I.P. Tour. We also share our best first-time visitor tips, money-saving advice, and everything you need to know before visiting HHN35.   Whether you're a first-time guest or an HHN veteran, this guide will help you choose the right pass and get the most out of your Halloween Horror Nights experience.  

Microsoft has announced Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC, allowing you to play classic console games on PC and handhelds such as the Xbox Ally X for the first time. Plus, Marvel studio boss Kevin Feige says they have mapped out movie plans up to 2042, hinting at a "streamlined, simplified" universe post-Avengers: Secret Wars. Kim has all that and more in your Daily Fix!Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

In today's Daily Fix:A lawsuit aims to force Nintendo to share its tariff refunds to customers who bought a Switch 2. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled some of President Trump's tariffs illegal, which means the extra fees Nintendo paid to ship the Switch 2 and other hardware to the U.S. could be returned. But Nintendo isn't required to pass those refunds on to customers. In other news, the highly-anticipated The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt — Songs of the Past DLC will get its debut next month during gamescom Opening Night Live. And we're heading back to How to Train Your Dragon's Isle of Berk with the Ride Guys to soar through Hiccup's Wing Gliders – all at Universal Orlando Resort. Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

In today's Daily Fix:Director Christopher Nolan's latest blockbuster is sailing past box office expectations with a $264 million dollar global opening weekend. This exceeds Nolan's previous record-holder, The Dark Knight Rises, which earned $249 million on opening weekend in 2012. The Odyssey cost nearly $400 million to produce and market, but it might not have to go on a odyssey of its own to recoup that money. In other news, Ryan Reynolds has ideas for Deadpool 4, and believes he's done doing solo Deadpool movies. After Deadpool & Wolverine made over $1 billion in theaters worldwide, Reynolds and Disney probably want to team him up with as many heroes as possible. And finally, we're riding Mine Cart Madness inside Super Nintendo World with The Ride Guys at Universal Epic Universe at Universal Orlando Resort.Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey cover the latest Universal Orlando Resort news before digging into a surprisingly rich piece of Universal Studios Hollywood history: He-Man and the Masters of the Universe briefly taking over the upper lot during the 1985 holiday season. They start with Fourth of July offerings at Epic Universe, Universal Studios Florida, CityWalk, and Bar 17 Bistro, then look at Illumination's box-office track record, Epic Universe guest surveys, and how Universal is comparing itself against Disney. The featured story traces He-Man's Conan-inspired roots, Mattel's toy-driven rise, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade connection, and why Masters of the Universe has never quite found a permanent theme park home. NEWS • Universal Orlando's Fourth of July plans included patriotic stilt walkers, fireworks at Epic Universe, lagoon entertainment at Universal Studios Florida, and family-friendly festivities at CityWalk. • Jim highlights Bar 17 Bistro at Aventura Hotel as one of the best rooftop spots for seeing fireworks across Central Florida. • Minions and Monsters opens the discussion of Illumination's reliable box-office machine and the studio's next wave of films, including Sing 3, The Secret Life of Pets 3, and Not Alone. • Eric shares new Epic Universe survey questions about park hours, nighttime entertainment, guest satisfaction, and whether visitors leave for other Orlando-area options. • Jim and Eric discuss why How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk has become a new themed entertainment benchmark, and how Disney's upcoming Villains Land may be compared against it. FEATURE • The feature begins with old photos of He-Man, Skeletor, Orko, She-Ra, and other Masters of the Universe characters appearing at Universal Studios Hollywood. • Jim and Eric trace the sword-and-sorcery path from Robert E. Howard's Conan stories to Universal's Conan the Barbarian films and the long-running Adventures of Conan stage show. • Eric explains how Mattel's abandoned Conan toy plans helped lead to He-Man, Castle Grayskull, and the Masters of the Universe toy line. • The episode revisits the Filmation cartoon, the toy-and-TV boom of the 1980s, and the way He-Man became a playground staple for a generation. • Jim and Eric connect the 1985 Universal Studios Hollywood He-Man meet-and-greet to the Masters of the Universe Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade float. • The conversation looks back at Gary Goddard's 1987 Masters of the Universe movie, starring Dolph Lundgren and Frank Langella, and why it struggled despite the franchise's popularity. • Eric explains why He-Man is unlikely to become a major Universal attraction, even as Masters of the Universe merchandise appears in Universal parks. • The discussion closes with Mattel Adventure Park's proposed He-Man vs. Skeletor laser tag experience and what a future Castle Grayskull attraction might look like. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey, Instagram: @erichersey, Website: strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Thanks to UnlockedMagic.com, where Epic Universal Podcast listeners can save on theme park tickets for Universal Orlando Resort and Walt Disney World. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Halloween Horror Nights announcements have been coming rapidly and in this episode we will discuss the reveal of Hellraiser as a house for HHN 35 in Orlando and HHN 2026 in Hollywood. And also the slightly unexpected return of Nightmare Fuel. Along with that construction in Orlando has started to bear themed set pieces and more trusses than we can count. Want to be on the show? Leave us a voicemail! (407) 906-4134 Follow HHN 365 on social media: Instagram HHN365 Twitter @HHN365 TikTok: @HHN365pod Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/jUD9nZav2U Merch: HHN365.com Featured audio is courtesy of White Bat Audio

On this episode of **Remy's Roundtable: The Florida Theme Park Podcast**, Remy and Mike kick things off by talking about investments—but not the kind you might expect. Remy asks Mike what he's currently investing in before revealing that his biggest investment right now is finding a new car. Will Remy finally be driving home in a new ride? He promises to keep everyone updated and reveal the answer on next week's episode.The fun continues with another round of **Guess This Disney Character**. This time, Remy made the game even easier for Mike, hoping for a perfect score. Despite the simpler clues, Mike still managed to finish with a **B grade**, leading to plenty of laughs and friendly competition between the two hosts.During the **Latest Theme Park Updates**, the hosts discuss Universal Orlando Resort's announcement of **Universal Nights**, an all-new, limited-capacity after-hours event coming to **Epic Universe** this October. The special event will take place on **October 3 and October 17, 2026**, from **9:00 p.m. to midnight**, with early event admission beginning at **7:00 p.m.** Tickets start at **$180**, and Remy and Mike share their thoughts on what guests can expect and whether the event is worth the price.For this week's **Ride of the Week**, Remy takes Mike on a nostalgic trip back to the Magic Kingdom of the 1970s to revisit the beloved **Mickey Mouse Revue**. The hosts explore the attraction's history, why it became a fan favorite, and how its former theater is now home to the popular **Mickey's PhilharMagic**, giving listeners a glimpse into a forgotten chapter of Disney history.To wrap up the episode, it's time for **Mike's Munchies**, where Mike heads over to **Kona Café** at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort for a delicious island-inspired meal. His total comes to **$90**, but thanks to Remy's Annual Pass discount, the bill drops to just **$80**—making the meal even sweeter.Whether you enjoy Disney history, the latest theme park news, great food, or plenty of laughs between friends, this episode has something for everyone. Sit back, relax, and enjoy another fun-filled adventure with Remy and Mike on **Remy's Roundtable: The Florida Theme Park Podcast**!

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In this episode of the Halloween Horror Events Podcast, Simon and Phill are talking about the latest HHN35 haunted house announcements for Universal Orlando Resort!   Two MEGA IP HOUSES have now been revealed — STRANGER THINGS 5 and HELLRAISER! Universal has officially confirmed both for Halloween Horror Nights 2026.  Universal Orlando Resort  But that's not all…

Today, we are heading over to Universal Orlando Resort for the ultimate in bougieness. We are talking all about our recent experience taking a Private VIP Tour at Universal’s two original parks here in Orlando: Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. We’re also talking about all of the ways you can have a VIP experience and what each entails, from private to non-private options. If you’ve ever been curious about how to see and do the most things possible in the shortest amount of time, this is it. Enjoy! This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations. For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney and Universal Vacations, visit https://www.fantasticalvacations.com We would love you to join us on Patreon! Thanks so much for supporting the show. We also have Addicted to the Mouse Merchandise! You can check it out at https://addictedtothemerch.com Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Sunday for the podcast. Join us every Sunday and Wednesday evening as we take you to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, on Disney Cruise Line, Universal Studios and everywhere in between! We can be found at www.addictedtothemouse.com and be reached at danandleslie@addictedtothemouse.com Please also connect with us here: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/addictedtothemouse Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@AddictedtotheMouse Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AddictedtotheMouse/ Instagram – https://instagram.com/addictedtothemouse/ The post Universal Orlando VIP Tours: Is the Ultimate Upgrade Worth It? appeared first on Addicted to the Mouse.

Originals week has returned and just like that, we know every original haunted house coming to HHN 35 in Orlando. H.R. Bloodengutz Presents: A Halloween Fright-Tacular, Madlands: Caged Cannibal, Cybergoria, and INVASION: Alien Abduction will join Jack and Oddfellow: Chaos & Control to make up the original lineup at Halloween Horror Nights in 2026. Want to be on the show? Leave us a voicemail! (407) 906-4134 Follow HHN 365 on social media: Instagram HHN365 Twitter @HHN365 TikTok: @HHN365pod Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/jUD9nZav2U Merch: HHN365.com Featured audio is courtesy of White Bat Audio

After months of speculation, the Steam Machine is finally here, starting at $1049 for the 512GB version. Plus, God of War Laufey, featuring Kratos' wife Faye as its protagonist, may have come as a surprise to some. But not to its star, Deborah Ann Woll, who first heard about the project almost a decade ago. Daemon has all that and more on your Daily Fix!Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

GTA 6 is coming! Rockstar has confirmed that pre-orders go live on June 25, which means we're just a week away from finally getting some meaningful answers on what to expect when the most anticipated video game of all time arrives this November.Once pre-orders open, we can expect to get answers for some of the biggest questions from not just fans, but the entire video game industry. With GTA 6, Rockstar has perhaps the biggest entertainment launch ever on its hands. This is a huge moment for the industry. What Rockstar and parent company Take-Two do in November could be a reset moment for video games, and setting up rival publishers to follow suit.Here are seven burning questions for the pre-order reveal.Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

## Remy's Roundtable: Epic's New Fireworks Show, Grand Fiesta Tour & Mama Della RistoranteOn this exciting episode of **Remy's Roundtable: The Florida Theme Park Podcast**, Remy is joined by Mike and Nicole for another fun-filled discussion covering the latest happenings from the world of Florida theme parks. The trio kicks things off with a brand-new round of **Would You Rather**, this time focusing on some of the most beloved dark ride attractions from Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld. From classic family adventures to immersive storytelling experiences, the crew debates which attractions they would choose and which ones they would leave behind. Expect plenty of laughs, surprising answers, and a few controversial picks along the way.During **The Latest Theme Park Updates**, the Roundtable dives into the exciting news coming out of **Epic Universe**. Universal's newest theme park is preparing to debut its very first nighttime fireworks spectacular, **Universal Celestial Goodnight**, beginning July 7th. The crew discusses what this new entertainment offering could mean for guests visiting the park, how it may enhance the nighttime atmosphere, and why this marks another major milestone for Universal Orlando's newest destination. Could this become a must-see nighttime experience for theme park fans? Remy, Mike, and Nicole share their thoughts.Next up is this week's **Ride of the Week**, where the spotlight shines on one of EPCOT's hidden gems, **Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros**. Join the crew as they take a closer look at Donald Duck's musical journey through Mexico alongside José Carioca and Panchito Pistoles. They discuss the attraction's history, favorite scenes, memorable moments, and why this classic dark ride continues to be a fan favorite inside the Mexico Pavilion. Whether you're a longtime fan of The Three Caballeros or someone who simply enjoys a relaxing boat ride through EPCOT, this segment is sure to bring back some magical memories.To wrap up the episode, Mike takes the Roundtable crew on a culinary adventure to **Mama Della's Ristorante** at Universal Orlando Resort. The team discusses their dining experience, the restaurant's authentic Italian atmosphere, delicious menu offerings, and the unique entertainment that makes Mama Della's a favorite among Universal guests. From hearty pasta dishes to classic Italian desserts, the crew shares what stood out during their visit and whether this dining location deserves a spot on your next Universal vacation itinerary.So grab your favorite snack, sit back, and join Remy, Mike, and Nicole for an episode packed with theme park debates, exciting news, a ride-through of a Disney classic, and a delicious stop for some Italian cuisine. Who's hungry and ready for another fun adventure around the Roundtable? Tune in and find out!

If you own a digital copy of Grand Theft Auto V on Xbox One or any kind of copy on PS4, you'll be entitled to a free upgrade to the current-gen versions of the game starting tomorrow, June 18. Plus, GTA Online is getting its next big update in just a few weeks. Daemon has all that and more on your Daily Fix.Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

Amid reports of potential studio closures and mass layoffs, Microsoft has announced the Xbox Game Pass June Wave 2 lineup of games. It has yet to comment, however, on this week's rumors that the likes of Hellblade developer Ninja Theory, Psychonauts developer Double Fine, and South of Midnight developer Compulsion may be shut down. Daemon has all this and more in your Daily Fix!Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

Head of Xbox Game Studios Craig Duncan and chief of staff Louise O'Connor are leaving Xbox after decades at the firm. Plus, Microsoft is reportedly planning to shut down South of Midnight and We Happy Few developer Compulsion Games. Daemon has all that and more on your Daily Fix.Presented by Universal Orlando Resort, and its newest theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

This week, we break away from our normal format because Tom was not prepared — but it's his birthday month, so cut him some slack.Tom and Jon “kick” things off with a look at the FIFA® World Cup 2026 Experience at LEGOLAND Florida, then head over to Universal Orlando Resort where FIFA has taken over CityWalk and the Universal Mega Movie Parade has returned for the summer.Tom also shares details from his day-of-recording visit to SeaWorld Orlando with Elena and some of her family, including the usual mix of plans, surprises, and theme park reality setting in.Then Jon gives us his review of his dining experience at Biergarten Restaurant in EPCOT's Germany Pavilion before we wrap things up with something new: May theme park stats tracked by Tom's soon-to-be-released ThrillLedger app.It's FIFA, food, family, stats, and a host who definitely had a plan… until he didn't.In this episode:Why Episode 268 breaks from the usual formatLEGOLAND Florida's FIFA® World Cup 2026 ExperienceUniversal CityWalk's FIFA World Cup Watch PartyThe return of Universal Mega Movie ParadeTom's SeaWorld Orlando visit with Elena and familyJon's Biergarten Restaurant dining experience at EPCOTMay theme park stats from Tom and JonA preview of how ThrillLedger tracks park visits, attractions, and moreSo until the next podcast, vlog or livestream, keep making memories.

Is there a movie that you've been waiting to see in the theaters? What do you have broken right now? It has been 10 years since the Pulse Tragedy and we talk about what has change and how we will never forget! We hook people up who have never been to Universal Orlando Resort! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is there a movie that you've been waiting to see in the theaters? What do you have broken right now? It has been 10 years since the Pulse Tragedy and we talk about what has change and how we will never forget! We hook people up who have never been to Universal Orlando Resort! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Simpsons has sprung up as a rumor and it is directly from the series' showrunner. We discuss what this could look like if it ends up at the event. Halloween Horror Nights construction is moving right along in Hollywood for HHN 2026 and has become visible in-park in Orlando for HHN 35. This is also a bittersweet episode as Jonathan will be making his final appearance before stepping away from 365. Want to be on the show? Leave us a voicemail! (407) 906-4134 Follow HHN 365 on social media: Instagram HHN365 Twitter @HHN365 TikTok: @HHN365pod Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/jUD9nZav2U Merch: HHN365.com Featured audio is courtesy of White Bat Audio

If you've ever thought Universal Orlando Resort was just for thrill rides or older kids, this episode might completely change your perspective.In this episode of The Travel Tidbits Podcast, Jamie is joined by Pineapple Escapes travel advisor Samantha Harris to break down everything you need to know about planning a Universal Orlando vacation—and why it's becoming one of the most requested destinations for families and couples alike.We're diving into what makes Universal stand out, including a look at all three parks, the incredibly immersive Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and why Volcano Bay is not your typical water park. We also explore the seasonal events that keep guests coming back year after year—from Halloween Horror Nights to the holidays and Mardi Gras.Plus, Samantha shares her best planning tips, including how to choose the right resort, when to travel, and how to make the most of your time in the parks. And if you've ever wondered whether working with a travel advisor really makes a difference, we cover that too.Whether you're a first-time visitor or considering a return trip, this episode will help you decide if Universal Orlando is the right fit for your next vacation—and how to do it right.Ready to start planning? Reach out to Pineapple Escapes Travel at info@pineappleescapes.comand let our team help you create a seamless, stress-free vacation.Because remember… travel makes life sweeter.

Gears of War: E-Day kicked off the Xbox Games Showcase 2026 with a first look at gameplay, a release date of October 6, 2026, and confirmation that it will be an Xbox console exclusive. Plus, Persona 6 is real, and coming to Xbox Game Pass when it does arrive.Presented by Universal Orlando Resort

In Episode 267 of the Vacationeers Theme Parks & More Podcast, Tom is joined by Jon to talk through a busy week of theme park updates, food reviews, and in-park testing.We start with some “old breaking news,” including Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure no longer being included with Universal Express beginning July 1, plus the news that Bad Bunny will voice a pizza character named Pizza with Sunglasses in Toy Story 5.Then we head into Universal Orlando Resort's opening weekend of Summer at Universal. We discuss the overall event atmosphere, the noticeable lack of a parade, and some of the featured summer food offerings. We also review a newer menu item that is not tied to the summer event but absolutely got our attention: the S'mores Cookie at Cafe 4 in Islands of Adventure.Food discussed in this episode:S'mores Cookie at Cafe 4 in Islands of Adventure — $6.29We're Gonna Need a Bigger Boat Platter at Richter's Burger Co. in Universal Studios Florida — $22.99Irene's Creamsicle Cheesecake Calzone at Minion Cafe in Universal Studios Florida — $11.99Finally, we talk about our Magic Kingdom visit on Wednesday, May 13, when the park closed early at 5:30 PM for a private event. Early close days are often rumored to have lighter crowds, so we rope-dropped the park to see if attraction wait times were actually lower.Magic Kingdom ride timing discussed:Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — delayedHaunted Mansion — Posted 13 minutes / Actual 2 minutesJungle Cruise — Posted 5 minutes / Actual 1 minutePirates of the Caribbean — Posted 5 minutes / Actual 1 minuteTiana's Bayou Adventure — Posted 5 minutes / Actual 1 minuteSeven Dwarfs Mine Train — Posted 25 minutes / Actual 24 minutesBuzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin — Posted 25 minutesSpace Mountain — Posted 5 minutes / Actual 13 minutesListen to Vacationeers Theme Parks & More Podcast:https://vacationeerspodcast.com/vacationeers-theme-parks-more-podcast/Merch:https://vacationeerspodcast.com/merch/Follow Tom:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vacationeer_tomTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vacationeers_podcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/VacationeersPodcastX / Twitter: https://twitter.com/vacationeertomSo until the next vlog, podcast or livestream, keep making memories.

In this episode of the DIS Unlimited Universal Show, Hannah and Ryno are chatting about their recent time at Universal Studios Florida where they went to check out some of the Jaws summer fun happening in the San Francisco area of the park, do a dining review at Richter's Burger Co., experience the new Spielberg Summer Blockbusters featuring Disclosure Day, and take in the return of the nighttime show, CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular. Have you had a chance to check out any of the seasonal happenings at Universal Orlando Resort yet?Links:UO Fan WebsiteGet a FREE No-Obligation Quote on a Universal vacation from Dreams Unlimited Travel today!Important DIS links and more information!Support us and get exclusive content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we're breaking down EVERYTHING announced so far for Halloween Horror Nights 35 at Universal Orlando Resort — including the return of legendary icons Jack the Clown & Dr. Oddfellow, earlier Scream Early access, Premium Scream Night, new haunted houses, scare zones, and major changes happening in and around Universal Orlando. If you're a Universal fan or planning a trip this fall, this is your complete Universal Orlando news roundup you don't want to miss!

Hannah and Ryno are dining at one of the most celebrated restaurants at a Universal Orlando Resort theme park, Mythos Restaurant located inside Universal Islands of Adventure. Hannah has never been, so it was a must-do dining review for these UO fans before the restaurant closes in 2027, as the The Lost Continent will be closing in phases to make way for a new themed area of the park. Hear what they have to say about this theme park staple sining location and if it held up to its reputation.Links:UO Fan WebsiteGet a FREE No-Obligation Quote on a Universal vacation from Dreams Unlimited Travel today!Important DIS links and more information!Support us and get exclusive content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We have quite a a lot to discuss this week as we were not only gifted our first IP house announcement for Halloween Horror Nights, but we also saw the release of the full range of HHN 2026 tickets for Hollywood, and also had Horror Night Nightmares release v4 of their spec maps for both coasts. Hop on board the Sinners train and prepare for HHN 35 in Orlando and HHN 2026 in Hollywood. Want to be on the show? Leave us a voicemail! (407) 906-4134 Follow HHN 365 on social media: Instagram HHN365 Twitter @HHN365 TikTok: @HHN365pod Join our Discord Server: https://discord.gg/jUD9nZav2U Merch: HHN365.com Featured audio is courtesy of White Bat Audio

This morning Jed is hitting the 'toad' and giving you a chance to win FIVE pairs of Universal Orlando Resort tickets! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode we are continuing our Would You Rather series with a Universal edition! Stay tuned to see us battle out which Butter Beer option takes the crown! This is episode 278 of STM.

The show toured the parks yesterday with their favorite guide Deanna!

How many t-shirts is Jay bringing on the trip to Universal Orlando Resort?

On today's Disney podcast, we are talking all things Disney and Universal news. From Level 99 opening at Disney Springs this summer to one of the most popular Universal restaurants closing, we're catching up on everything from Disney World to Universal Orlando Resort. Enjoy! This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations. For free concierge vacation planning, specializing in Disney and Universal Vacations, visit https://www.fantasticalvacations.com We would love you to join us on Patreon! Thanks so much for supporting the show. We also have Addicted to the Mouse Merchandise! You can check it out at https://addictedtothemerch.com Thanks so much for listening! If you like what you hear, please subscribe and catch us every Sunday for the podcast. Join us every Sunday and Wednesday evening as we take you to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, on Disney Cruise Line, Universal Studios and everywhere in between! We can be found at www.addictedtothemouse.com and be reached at danandleslie@addictedtothemouse.com Please also connect with us here: Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/addictedtothemouse Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@AddictedtotheMouse Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AddictedtotheMouse/ Instagram – https://instagram.com/addictedtothemouse/ The post 2027 Adventures by Disney Release | Universal & Disney News appeared first on Addicted to the Mouse.

Universal Orlando Resort announces a summer packed with some movie-themed events and new details on Universal Halloween Horror Nights 2026, including theme, a house announcement, and ticket details. All that and more in this episode of the DIS Unlimited Universal Show!Links:UO Fan WebsiteGet a FREE No-Obligation Quote on a Universal vacation from Dreams Unlimited Travel today!Important DIS links and more information!Support us and get exclusive content on Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is it really happening? Will an open hub come to Epic Universe, or are they just preparing for Virtual Line at the worlds of the park ahead of expanding park capacity to include annual passes? Alicia and Ian discuss their theories, as well as what ride expansion may be next after Potter, recent news, and more! Related Links Recent Video Update: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hh02LCUaZno Orlando Business Journal Story: https://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/news/2026/04/07/universal-orlando-land-epic-city-walk-development.html Thumbnail Photo by: @Florida_Coasters_1 Alicia Social Links: https://alicia.socialSubscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThemeParkStopSupport on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThemeParkStop