Behind the Scenes with the Icons of Disney: My D23 Day Two Experience

Double the magic, double the fun. D23 is an event that deserves to be attended all three days and as we are on our way to day two, we have more surprises to unveil. 

Here is a look at some fun panels we were able to attend.

Abbott Elementary: Class in Session!

My second day at D23 kicked off with the highly anticipated “Abbott Elementary: Class in Session!” panel, and it was nothing short of spectacular. As a die-hard fan of the show, I was thrilled to get an exclusive first look at an unreleased episode from the upcoming season. Let me just say—this is exactly what fans have been waiting for.

During the panel, Tyler James Williams addressed the audience’s excitement and anxiety about his character Gregory’s relationship with Janine. “I think people have to understand, I live in his skin as I feel it too,” he shared, resonating deeply with the audience’s anticipation.

The rest of the cast also reflected on the joy and challenges of portraying teachers. The Emmy-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph opened up about how the young actors who play her students see her as a real-life teacher. “When I look at these kids that come into my classroom every year and their little faces believing that I’m their teacher. Oh my God, it’s just the best,” she said, with genuine affection in her voice. She continued, “And they write me when the show is over, they’ll keep in touch, they’ll tell me what they did during the summer.”

Ralph, who comes from a family of educators, added, “I’ve been raised by teachers, surrounded by teachers, but I’m getting the best of a fake teacher’s life.” Her words perfectly captured the heartwarming connection between the show’s cast and the students they portray.

Quinta Brunson, the show’s creator and star, teased that fans have been vocal about their desires for more episodes—and Abbott Elementary is ready to deliver. With production on season 4 starting soon, the show’s co-executive producer Brian Rubenstein promised more holiday episodes, while executive producer Randall Einhorn hinted at more scenes showing the teachers’ lives outside the classroom. This panel was a true treat for fans, offering a sneak peek into what’s next for Abbott Elementary.

Stay Tuned: You’re Watching Disney Channel

After the Abbott Elementary panel, I headed over to the “Stay Tuned: You’re Watching Disney Channel” panel on the Walt Disney Archives Stage. This nostalgic trip down memory lane was a delightful experience for any Disney Channel fan. The panel featured both OG and new stars from some of the most iconic series and movies that have captured the hearts of generations.

One of the standout moments was when Dara Reneé, star of Descendants: Rise of Red and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, shared a heartfelt moment with her mentor and new co-star Monique Coleman. ”

Being able to be a part of something where I feel you and I see you as someone who I look to, but now I am relating in such a way… I know that High School Musical—those shoes could never be filled, period,” Dara said, clearly moved by the opportunity to work alongside Monique. “I am so glad to learn and to see it through you, Ms. Monique Coleman.”

The panel was filled with laughter, fun, and unforgettable moments, as the stars reminisced about their time on the Disney Channel and shared stories that highlighted the magic of those formative years.

Animation Greats + Bob’s Burgers, Futurama, and The Simpsons Presented by Hulu Animayhem

The “Animation Greats + Bob’s Burgers, Futurama, and The Simpsons Presented by Hulu Animayhem” panel at D23 was a true highlight, bringing together four of the most influential creators in animation: Matt Groening, Seth MacFarlane, Mike Judge, and Loren Bouchard. The panel was a perfect blend of entertainment and insight, appealing to both longtime fans and aspiring animators.

One of the coolest moments was the live table read by the voice talent from Bob’s Burgers, paired with an animator drawing the scenes in real time. It was a rare and fascinating glimpse into the process behind the show, making it a standout moment of the event.

The Q&A sessions that followed were equally engaging. Fans had the chance to ask these animation legends about their creative processes, the evolution of their shows, and what it’s like to voice iconic characters. The responses were filled with humor, wisdom, and some behind-the-scenes stories that had the audience laughing and applauding throughout. It was clear that this panel was a must-see for anyone who loves animation or dreams of creating their own.

As I walked out of the final panel, reflecting on the day, I couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the creative minds and talented individuals who make magic on screen. Day two at D23 was an unforgettable experience, filled with exclusive sneak peeks, heartfelt moments, and interactions with some of the biggest names in the industry. Each panel offered something unique, from the laughs and nostalgia of Disney Channel classics to the deep dives into beloved animated series. It’s days like these that remind me why I fell in love with storytelling in the first place, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the expo has in store.