Where did all the time go? With so many panels and events to explore at D23, we are going to highlight the final events that took us by storm.
Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman
The final day of D23 began with a heartfelt tribute that resonated deeply with every Disney fan in attendance. “Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman” was more than just a nod to the legendary composer—it was a moving homage to a man whose music has been the soundtrack to countless Disney memories. The event was filled with performances and surprise appearances by those who knew Sherman best, creating an atmosphere that was both nostalgic and celebratory.
Disney CEO Bob Iger opened the presentation with personal memories of Sherman, recalling how even in his later years, Sherman continued to create magic, including a new verse for the beloved “It’s a Small World.” Iger’s words set the tone for the event, reminding everyone of Sherman’s enduring legacy.
Actor and Disney aficionado John Stamos followed, sharing his deep admiration for Sherman and urging fans to keep the melodies alive. The stage then welcomed a series of Disney legends, including Floyd Norman, Tony Baxter, and Kevin Feige, each sharing stories that highlighted Sherman’s genius and the joy he brought to those around him. Feige’s story about Sherman’s contribution to “Iron Man 2” was particularly touching, showcasing Sherman’s versatility and his ability to weave magic into even the most unexpected places.
Throughout the tribute, the audience was treated to live performances of Sherman’s most iconic songs, including a lively rendition of “I Wan’na Be like You” from “The Jungle Book,” performed by Darren Criss and Stamos. The event culminated in a sing-along of “Let’s Go Fly a Kite,” with everyone on stage joining in, creating a moment that felt both joyous and bittersweet.
As the last notes filled the hall, it was clear that Richard M. Sherman’s music would continue to soar, much like the kites he so famously wrote about. This celebration was not just for Sherman—it was for everyone whose life has been touched by his incredible work.
Donald Duck’s 90th Quacktacular
Donald Duck’s 90th Quacktacular was a true celebration of the beloved character’s legacy, bringing together fans for a nostalgic journey through the history of Disney’s favorite duck. Attendees were treated to a special screening of a newly restored short called “Donald’s Day Off” alongside the premiere of a brand new short, “DIY Duck.” What made this event even more special was the presence of Tony Anselmo, who has been the voice of Donald Duck since Clarence Nash, the original voice, passed away. Anselmo shared heartfelt stories about his mentor, Nash, and expressed how deeply he values being part of Disney’s rich history. The audience was also moved by a special voice message from Nash’s family, bringing a personal touch to the celebration. It was a fitting tribute to Donald Duck’s enduring charm and his place in the hearts of Disney fans.
Disney Character Voices: Inside the Studio
The “Disney Character Voices: Inside the Studio” panel was an unforgettable journey into the magic of voice acting that brings beloved Disney characters to life. Held at the Premiere Stage, this behind-the-scenes experience offered fans a rare opportunity to witness live recording sessions with some of their favorite Disney voices. The panel featured an impressive lineup of voice actors, including Bret Iwan (Mickey Mouse), Kaitlyn Robrock (Minnie Mouse), Disney Legend Bill Farmer (Goofy), and Dera Wilson (Daisy Duck), who shared insights into their craft and the emotions they channel to embody these iconic characters.
One of the highlights of the event was when two lucky attendees were chosen from the crowd to step into the shoes of Bo Peep and Rex from Toy Story, giving them a taste of what it’s like to voice a Disney character. The panelists demonstrated how they bring their characters to life, not just with their voices but also with their expressions, gestures, and the deep connection they feel with the roles they play. It was a truly interactive and enlightening experience that left fans with a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind Disney’s timeless characters.
Photo Credits: D23
Disney Honors 14 New Disney Legends in Heartfelt Ceremony to Close Out Historic D23 Event
As D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event drew to a close, the Honda Center became the setting for a deeply moving evening that celebrated the extraordinary contributions of Disney’s newest Legends. This year’s ceremony, a fitting finale to a remarkable weekend, honored 14 individuals whose work has left an indelible mark on Disney’s storied legacy.
The 2024 Disney Legends are Colleen Atwood, Angela Bassett, Martha Blanding, James L. Brooks, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Steve Ditko, Harrison Ford, Mark Henn, Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, Joe Rohde, John Williams. Each brought their unique magic to the world of entertainment. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the evening was a blend of heartfelt tributes, surprise guest appearances, and powerful performances that paid tribute to their lasting impact because we know that Ryan is a hosting sensation.
Disney CEO Bob Iger opened the ceremony with a touching acknowledgment of the Disney Legends Award’s significance. He spoke about the honor as a symbol of Disney’s gratitude and the special place these individuals hold in the company’s history. The night was marked by emotional moments, from poignant video tributes to live performances that celebrated the honorees’ remarkable careers.
Harrison Ford, celebrated for his legendary roles, was honored with a tribute video that featured reflections from friends and collaborators. You could feel the love throughout the arena for Harrison as a person and we were all there to witness his gratefulness. Jamie Lee Curtis, recognized for her diverse and groundbreaking roles, was celebrated by close friends Jodie Foster and Lindsay Lohan. Jaime is celebrated for who she is and she is not just an actor but a friend, mentor, mother, and just a great person overall. Kelly Ripa was warmly honored by her former co-host Ryan Seacrest, highlighting her exceptional career and enduring impact. Her sense of self brought all of our emotions to gravitate to her in that joyous moment.
Martha Blanding’s contributions to Disneyland were celebrated with a heartfelt performance of “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by The Dapper Dans and the Disneyland Band. James L. Brooks was honored with an animated tribute from “The Simpsons” characters, while Colleen Atwood received praise from director Rob Marshall for her unparalleled costume design. She went to high school in Watts, Compton, and has come a long way since then. She is now being honored to the highest degree by Disney, a company that truly saw her value since the day she became the first full-time Black tour guide at Disneyland. Martha’s commitment to crafting unforgettable experiences was evident from the start, earning her the opportunity to host VIP guests such as Diana Ross and Elton John. Her trailblazing journey saw her rise to become the first Black woman in merchandise management at Disneyland, where she eventually took on the role of Senior Manager of Merchandise Special Events. Although Martha retired in 2022, her legacy endures as she became the first Black Disney Parks employee to receive the prestigious Disney Legend honor.
Frank Oz was then honored by Pixar’s Pete Docter for his extraordinary ability to bring cherished characters to life, reminding us all of the magic behind his work. Miley Cyrus was celebrated in a special moment when Lainey Wilson delivered a rousing performance of “Best of Both Worlds,” connecting us to the unforgettable tunes that defined a generation. She was just a thirteen-year-old girl who believed she truly was Hannah Montana and it took her to a successful career then on.
Steve Ditko’s posthumous award was a poignant tribute presented by Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, recognizing Ditko’s foundational impact on the Marvel Universe.
Mark Henn, a cornerstone of Disney Animation, was celebrated by fellow Disney Legends who paid tribute to his remarkable career with genuine admiration and respect.
Joe Rohde’s visionary contributions to Disney’s theme parks were highlighted by an exhilarating performance by the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe, echoing the vibrant spirit he brought to the parks.
James Cameron’s groundbreaking achievements were honored by Zoë Saldaña, and a moving video message from Kate Winslet reflected on Cameron’s unparalleled innovation and storytelling prowess.
Angela Bassett received well-deserved recognition for her powerful performances, with Ryan Coogler and Dora Milaje from “Black Panther” celebrating her profound impact and remarkable talent.
The evening’s finale was a deeply moving tribute to John Williams, featuring a breathtaking performance of his iconic scores by the Pacific Symphony Orchestra. Harrison Ford and Kathleen Kennedy delivered touching remarks, celebrating Williams’ unmatched contributions to film music.
As we concluded a truly magical D23 weekend, the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony served as a beautiful testament to the extraordinary impact these individuals have made. For those who missed it, the ceremony will be available for streaming exclusively on Disney+ starting Monday, August 12, at 2 p.m. PT/5 p.m. ET.
