RUMOR: Universal Looking At Replacing Marvel Super Hero Island

[@matthewxbradley7102]

I really hope this is just a rumor. I love this land since it represents Marvel before Disney. During the awesome 90s animated era and all the original comic stuff

[@sky0kast0]

I certainly agree with you I would rather have a refresh than a replacement but you know maybe if rides are less popular now it doesn't mean that what you're going to make is even more popular I mean Tiana's adventure is proof of that also try you know of course that's that's a different beast entirely it didn't take up spot it just went someplace no one nothing was using but that's that's my opinion anyway

[@sky0kast0]

I tried to say Tron* and it did not reference that

[@taylorgang221000]

i agree there’s almost nothing out there like that comics shows cartoons ride etc have all been disney-fied

[@cosmicwarrior1857]

@@sky0kast0lol only the spider-man ride has an actual theme it’s not that serious. I love the spider-man ride too but it’s definitely showing its age these days. Sounds like you just hate disney.

[@Newmericaindustries]

Problem is though, there’s superhero fatigue and superheroes are past their prime.

[@ultranel13]

This is not a thing. As long the construction walls keep coming up, that contract will remain. The island still popular, it is one of the strongest island in the park by it's variety of offerings, including 4 rides, 3 meet and greet, and plenty of food and merch. Also let's not forget that the island is a direct tribute to Stan Lee, since the island is fully based on the original comic books, and has nothing to do with Hollywood or modern times Marvel. Universal is holding too much Disney power in their hands, so I doubt they will let go. Japan I understand, but Florida is a special situation. The Nintendo rumor is Poke to USF and Zelda to IOA. Besides they are about to keep the contract active when Spiderman closes next month for a refurbish. The land will stay, the only contract they will drop is the Simpsons.

[@mrbeaks]

That's what i think too. It's too valuable of a commodity. Though... and I can understand why it wasn't mentioned in the video, but I heard (definately ALSO a rumor) that Disney and Universal were in the middle of talks on a different topic, and this "phasing out marvel" thing at universal Florida was thrown in to sweeten the deal. I'm not sure if any of that is true or if the deal even closed.. but la di da. Still a rumor.

[@randomfools808]

Exactly. They wouldn't have spent all that money to redo Hulk either.

[@SonicMoon1]

Pokémon will most likely replace Springfield at USF with Zelda going to Islands of Adventure. However don’t be surprised if they actually do drop the Marvel brand at IOA since Spider Man is set to close at USJ to make way for Pokemon

[@MichelleAlexandria-EM]

Universal isn't giving up that license. It'd be stupid. Not to mention they get to stick it to their rival.

[@SOADGOD]

This rumor comes up like every 3 years. For the last 15 years

[@capthemagic]

You’re not wrong lol

[@jimthar17]

Gonna be bad news for the Hulk and Spider Man rides, which are two of the best rides out there. Loss of Spider Man and a retheme of Hulk would be terrible.

[@brennacollins6000]

Replace by Sonic The Hedgehog

[@Practically_Dripku]

Universal would have to go to sega for a sonic ride+ they can just expand epic universe for Sonic​@brennacollins6000

[@SonicMoon1]

@@brennacollins6000TBH I’d love a retheme to Sonic

[@brennacollins6000]

@@SonicMoon1 Pikmin Replace Men in Black Alien Attack

[@brennacollins6000]

​@@SonicMoon1Pokémon Replace The Simpsons and The Legend of Zelda Replace The Lost Continent

[@Unfunny_things]

i cant believe their even considering this when toon lagoon and the lost continent are RIGHT NEXT DOOR

[@brian8928]

Don’t worry this is just a article from someone not working with us

[@ChienaAvtzon]

The Lost Continent could just be used for another “Harry Potter” attraction.

[@OakForestBoys]

Toon lagoon is awesome

[@harrisd1983]

​@ChienaAvtzon i heard a while ago that they were considering doing a Zelda land there

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@@harrisd1983 - That is possible, but as of yet Universal does not have the rights to “Zelda”.

[@millabasset1710]

I don't care how great Epic Universe is, you get rid of the Hulk coaster and Spider-Man ride, people will get mad.

[@capthemagic]

I don't think this rumor is true

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

@@capthemagic It's hard to say, without inside information, the only thing we have to go on is when things go down for refurbishment. There is a license to cover those rides, but it makes a significant difference how the license was written. It could be that they get to keep what they've got as long as it remains in operation, but not replace it. Or, it could be that the license lasts for a certain number of years after which it all has to go.

[@fard458]

I feel like after the retracking there’s no way they would demolish hulk but I could see them retheming it eventually. (Though it might be old enough to demolish by the time they actually get rid of Marvel island, which would be sad)

[@Ultima64]

With the Hulk Coaster I'd imagine they would try to rework it rather than get rid of it since it was rebuilt from scratch back in 2016. An example of what this would look like would be the Decepticon Coaster at US Beijing. As for Spiderman though, I'm not sure what will happen with that one since that would probably take alot more effort to rework

[@SlackerWannaB]

They just completely re-tracked Hulk. No way is Marvel going anywhere. Re-theme Toon lagoon rides to SpongeBob = fortune and spike in attendance.

[@tylerloux5593]

The hulk retrack isn't that popular though and they could just retheme it if they wanted to

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@@tylerloux5593 - Exactly…. it is just a generic, and frankly old, roller coaster. Islands of Adventure has Hagrid’s Motorbike and the Velocicoaster, both of which are newer and far more popular.

[@SonicMoon1]

Better idea, re theme the entire area into Nickelodeon in general. (So we can get a better TMNT ride at a major park)

[@LiamGHighlights]

10 years ago lol

[@ericstratten5653]

1) IOA is a very uneven (and narrow) theme park. 2.5 rides in Potter/Jurassic and 2 rides in Marvel Island bring 30-90 minute waits. Except kiddie rides, there is really only a few rides in Toon Lagoon that are empty in some months, Kong with its jenky doors, and NO rides in Lost Continent. As you said, fix Lost Cont first 2) No sit down shows with their two existing 1000 plus seat theaters. Fix this next (at least one) 3) The Forbidden Journey ride has lost its way with only 15-30 minute waits. Heavily refurbish 4) There is no multilevel Cantina style bar that hangs over the shore of the lagoon. Who's responsible!?

[@krishnar1182]

I doubt it. There are a lot of Marvel fans who come to Universal with a focus on that area. Universal absolutely needs to refresh the area, modernize rides and so forth, but it is still very much a valuable area for them. I agree with you that it would only work if Disney paid a load of money to get Universal to drop Marvel. Moreover even if Universal did abandon Marvel Disney is so slow to react and build that we likely wouldn't see an Avengers campus or anything like that at WDW for another 10 years minimum.

[@capthemagic]

Well, you do have a point about Disney there lol. They would be Avenger's Campus sometime by 2040 lol

[@metallicnole4514]

It does pose an interesting question. Does universal keep marvel superhero island just to keep it out of disney's hands? Even though they will have a difficult time further developing/expanding the land, while continuing to pay disney licensing fees and giving them a cut of the merchandise. Or do they give up marvel in favor of an ip they have more control over and can expand without any barriers?

[@LChatmanFL]

Universal is actually able to exploit it's license. You can find this language in the miscellaneous section towards the bottom of the contract. For example, if they wanted to add an Ironman suspended coaster they could. Disney is actually, obligated to provide personnel and artwork.🎉

[@metallicnole4514]

@@LChatmanFL I believe that there is also nebulous language in the contract about attractions maintaining the quality of the brand, which I think marvel could exploit. In IOA, the 3 heavy hitting lands are harry potter, Jurassic park, and marvel. Marvel is the only land out of the 3 that has never gotten any kind of development or expansion. I think they are at a stand still. Universal is keeping disney from using marvel in orlando, but marvel is making it hard for universal to expand the land.

[@LChatmanFL]

@@metallicnole4514 When you say superhero Island is at a standstill, you may be missing a few developments. We all know that hulk underwent an entire retract & new entrance a number of years ago. Also in 2017 December, Universal launched a superhero character dining. In fact there's a cool KZbin video from 6 years ago that you can find. They've also repainted the murals in certain places. They remasterd the entire Spider-Man video collection to make it HD and replaced all the cameras with digital ones plus updated the ride mechanics. This was 2011 or 2012. And now they are planning a second refurb or refresh, not sure. Also, if you go into the gift store, you will find beautiful collector pieces and great comics. There's a lot of really cool stuff in there. Universal will not allow Disney to try and claim the area is not being maintained to a high standard. Therefore, I really do believe Universal has all the leverage. They can expand however they want (non MCU), using the license they have in perpetuity. Disney really has no leverage in my humble opinion.

[@LChatmanFL]

@@metallicnole4514 When you say superhero Island is at a standstill, you may be missing a few developments. We all know that hulk underwent an entire retract & new entrance a number of years ago. Also in 2017 December, Universal launched a superhero character dining. In fact there's a cool KZbin video from 6 years ago that you can find. They've also repainted the murals in certain places. They remasterd the entire Spider-Man video collection to make it HD and replaced all the cameras with digital ones plus updated the ride mechanics. This was 2011 or 2012. And now they are planning a second refurb or refresh, not sure. Also, if you go into the gift store, you will find beautiful collector pieces and great comics. There's a lot of really cool stuff in there. Universal will not allow Disney to try and claim the area is not being maintained to a high standard. Therefore, I really do believe Universal has all the leverage. They can expand however they want (non MCU), using the license they have in perpetuity. Disney really has no leverage in my humble opinion.

[@capthemagic]

@LChatmanFL that would be wild if Universal announced some new Iron Man attraction and Disney had to help them develop and build it lol

[@JoeysClones]

It's just a rumor..Universal Creatives goal is to pull the parks out of 90s and early 2000s. Spiderman had new animation render as Hulk had a full scale refurb due to foundations..it's not going anywhere. Hyrule, I mean However... Lost Continent might be next to go...as well Toon Lagoon..and Jurassic park brandings/extensions and refurbs

[@andrews6639]

Bring back, Back to the Future ride!!!!!!

[@capthemagic]

Would love that!

[@State-of-Sunshine]

I’m with you-I think Universal enjoys sticking it to Disney too much to hand them Marvel 🤣. Also, subjectively, the OG Spiderman needs to exist somewhere in this world at all times as tribute to 90’s cutting edge which has held its own all these years 🙌🏻

[@capthemagic]

The Spiderman Ride is one of the best theme park rides ever and I agree, still holds up

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

Disney owns Marvel, hence the Marvel stuff at Disney properties. It may not come down to Universal, especially if the renewal cost when it comes up for renewal turns out to be too high. But, then again, if Disney keeps it up, they may have to take whatever Universal is willing to pay them.

[@Courier_333]

​@@SmallSpoonBrigade universal doesn't have to renew their rights. They own the theme park rights to marvel, west of the Mississippi. And they completely own the brand name "Marvel" in American theme parks.... which is why Disney California Adventure's Marvel land is called Avengers campus

[@brennacollins6000]

@@Courier_333 Sonic The Hedgehog Replacing Marvel

[@Courier_333]

@brennacollins6000 that's one of the worst possible scenarios

[@TimothyKline-u4r]

They just invested a ton of money into the hulk and made it truly incredible. They are not redoing that land. They need to redo the comic stripland just retheme it. Keep the log from. Put better theming throughout it. Keep the rapids ride but rethem it etc

[@capthemagic]

I forgot to mention the Hulk coaster track being replaced, just another reason as to why I don't think this rumor has any legs

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

@@capthemagic That sort of thing is the most reliable indicator about the internal expectations for a ride. The only reaosn why they would do that and then tear it down is if there's some major design problems that were missed that lead to people being injured and being unable to find a cost effective repair.

[@jared119]

I couldn’t fathom this being anything other than a rumor pretty much cause of what you said. It would just give Disney a leg up in the competition. Also given the fact that they have way too much empty space in both parks that they should start utilizing, it wouldn’t make sense to replace the marvel island in the foreseeable future IF they even decide to replace it. Just my two cents

[@ChienaAvtzon]

Disney owns Marvel, and has no plans on renewing that licensing deal.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@MarshalMarrs-eu9yh - That is not happening and you know it. Universal cannot do anything with Marvel, aside from routine maintenance. Which is why that area is stuck in the 90s, and is severely outdated. It is not beneficial in the long-term to have what basically amounts to a Disney billboard within their parks. Which is why the rides were closed down in Japan.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

With WB streamlining the department that deals with theme park licensing, there is plenty of popular IPs Universal can replace an outdated Marvel land with. Superheroes are past their prime, and the comic book industry is dead. Besides “Harry Potter”, “Jurassic Park”, and the facade of Minions Land, the Universal Studios Florida parks are stuck in the 90s. Also, perhaps it is about time Universal actually creates land dedicated to Steven Spielberg’s films? He is the reason the studio is successful.

[@capthemagic]

I am curious if something new comes to the Universal Parks from WB streamlining that end of things and frankly, WB is in desperate need of money so just begging for some sort of licensing deal there it would seem

[@LuckyPierre789]

Disney and Universal have been Frenemies for years.

[@marcuswelby921]

I DO NOT see this happening! Like you said this is a RUMOR!!

[@capthemagic]

Fun rumor to discuss but I don't think this one has any legs

[@LargeMargeMiami]

Tmnt would be a great successor! switching the spider man ride to tmnt would work perfectly with the current ride system as well, imagine the turtles on New York rooftops. It would definitely work. 🐢

[@andrews6639]

Universal just sank a lot of $ into redoing The Hulk coster, and Spiderman. That would be really stupid of them and bad business for them to spend that much $ to redo/update these rides just to close them.

[@waltsapartment-105]

It’s such a bad deal for both of them in a lot of ways. Universal has several products in their parks that they are paying Disney to essentially advertise their IPs for them. Sure, it prevents Disney from having some of their IPs in their Florida parks, but it seems like Disney is fine just waiting that out. Dont forget that Universal is also paying massive licensing fees to JK Rowling and Warner Bros as well. I still think Iger made a smart long term choice to drop Rowling’s extreme demands for a property that Disney couldn’t make any films for (2004-06) and full on bought Pixar (2006) and Marvel (2009) instead. I would LOVE to see a totally revamped retro-futurism superhero and crime fighting land with universal properties. Like old school 1940s Green Hornet, Flash Gordon, the Invisible Woman, etc. But don’t update them. If they did spectacular rides in a 1940s retro aesthetic, it would be totally unique and could tie into under utilized IPs for future films.

[@WorldsWorstBoy]

It's the best part of Island Of Adventure to me.

[@Ay3shizzle]

Agreed felt like walking right into a comic book

[@kaseytennis7346]

I feel like Universal is at kind of a standstill with this land because while they can use the characters, they can't use depictions from the films, which is what most fans want to see. The true loser in this theme park war is the fans. There are so many great potential MCU attractions that could be made, but Disney nor Universal can give it to us, other than in Disneyland but they have so little space to truly do it justice.

[@Pr0jectDharma]

My entire family loves the spiderman ride at Univesal. Now that there is a massive spider verse and he is such a popular character they should just keep the IP in their park and focus on a spider-verse.

[@kristenpollock1641]

Maybe they should but not at this time - you are correct with other areas that need rebranding or updating such as toon lagoon - even though I love the rides - maybe just a rebranding and the lost continent needs something. Disney has so much going on as well with their new themed areas, I don't think this is going to happen anytime soon.

[@andymccormack5047]

As much as I like the Hulk ride, I think superhero island is really dated and either needs a full makeover with current marvel characters/rides or it needs to be replaced with something else.

[@Zachycali]

One could agree that when one side refurbishes and develops it brings new traffic to both parks. I don’t think selling the IP back is a crazy idea. Uni wants to stand on its own two legs with its own brands. Having this brand causes consumer confusion which in turn is bad for both companies.

[@capthemagic]

You're not wrong but I think if I'm Universal you just don't hand your biggest competitior an IP like Marvel to use against you in the future

[@UndeadNerdT800]

9:52 the contract does say that universal can exploit marvel. So we’ll just have to wait

[@LChatmanFL]

Yes, in the miscellaneous section.

[@capthemagic]

Ya I've often wondered how much Universal could push the limits of the contract but at this point I imagine they would devote more money to their own IP's in the parks vs Marvel but keeping it around so Disney can't utilitize it

[@remyd8767]

As a theme park fan, i really hope this happens. Super hero Island is stale. Besides Spider-Man there is nothing over there for me. Since they can't add rides, there's no point in keeping it. They should retheme that land to something more relevant. Again as a theme park fan, i would love Disney to finally be able to build a full blown marvel land with new marvel rides.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@@remyd8767 - Walt Disney World’s hypothetical “Avengers Campus” would go into EPCOT. Since that is where the “Cosmic Rewind” roller coaster is, and EPCOT is the only park where where those realistic facades would not be a complete eyesore.

[@capthemagic]

Well, the reason that Universal is likely to keep Marvel Super Hero Island for the foreseeable future is because like you said, Disney would build out a bunch of Marvel rides... if I'm Universal I'm never letting them do that

[@danielm2808]

They’d be stupid to get rid of this. I’d be stunned if they did.

[@capthemagic]

Agreed

[@brianmola711]

Should this all be true, I think the Pokémon stuff should go to Universal Studios Florida. USF needs the extra options and needs to solidify its position as the flagship Universal Orlando theme park, something it’s been lacking in for years now. I say this as a diehard Universal Studios Florida fan boy.

[@capthemagic]

Agreed and it makes the most sense for it to go there vs MSI

[@davebrown9739]

It's gotta sting though when you sell merchandise and a lot of the money is headed towards Disney's pockets

[@capthemagic]

True but I think that is a small price to pay in this situation to keep Marvel out of your biggest competitors parks

[@matchakit]

But marvel is already in all Disney parks. They have avengers campus in Disney Paris, Hong Kong has an iron man ride with more on the way, Shanghai is getting marvel in the next year or two, etc. the only set of parks without marvel are the Tokyo parks but that was due to USJ, which officially no longer has marvel. So TDL is going to get marvel soon. It’s a waiting game for Disney world now.

[@loserhl]

Keep in mind this contract was written when Marvel was near bankruptcy due to the comic book collapse of the 90s. Universal pretty much set their own terms because Marvel needed the cash to pay it's debt.

[@chillabrew_glycolinstall]

It does not make sense to let go of marvel until disney has completed their villains build out. If they allow these properties to become available to disney before they have spent all of their avaliable capital on build out, It would be extremely plausible to expect disney to build a full fledged marvel theme park in FL.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@@chillabrew_glycolinstall - If Disney was ever going to build a fifth gate, at Walt Disney World, they would have done it a decade ago. They do not need another park in Orlando. As there is still plenty of space in the existing four, especially within EPCOT and Animal Kingdom. If you ever saw pictures of Shanghai Disneyland, be glad Iger never built a fifth gate. It would be ugly and soulless. Though, you are probably correct that Universal would give up on the Marvel license in around 2030. Once Epic Universe opens, they need to invest in updating the other two parks. It would not be beneficial to have a land that they can never add another ride to, and can only do routine maintenance on. The Marvel area is pretty outdated, and is bound to just become a headache to deal with.

[@chillabrew_glycolinstall]

@@ChienaAvtzon to my understanding, disney actually is courting a 5th gate. However, I believe it's rumored to be for the littlest ones, kinda like Legoland. Universal absolutely does need to invest in its older parks, but I do not believe this is the place they will start as it strategically doesn't make sense. I imagine you were going to see simpsons addressed before marvel superhero island is as the Licensing agreement they have for that area expires in '28. Additionally , you still have parts of islands that are completely vacant like the lost continent the will probably be addressed before shutting down Spiderman and hulk.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@@chillabrew_glycolinstall - A fifth gate to compete with LEGOLand is more viable, than a fully Marvel or Villains themed park. Disney needs to start catering to children again, instead of just Disney Adults who ruined the experience for everyone. “The Simpsons” and the Lost Continent are fairly easy to deal with. Expand that cheap-o Dreamworks kiddie area, and build a proper DreamworksLand. There is so much Universal could do with those IPs, that would appeal to all ages. While, the Lost Kingdom could finally just completely be swallowed by the Wizarding World. Hogsmeade is cramped and needs more space for guests. Not to mention, it makes more sense to build that hypothetical Great Hall dining experience near Hogwarts, than to have it in the Epic Universe section.

[@whobdis77]

Pretty solid area so I don't see them messing with that. Lost continent needs work first.

[@capthemagic]

That and Toon Lagoon

[@DevilHunter-e3f]

I call BS straight up on this rumor! Super Hero Island is the only space for old school fans of Marvel to enjoy Marvel without the Disney tag attached and Universal just updated the Hulk and Spider-Man ride. Right now, Disney is running the Marvel brand into the ground and they have NO money to update or regularly maintain ANY of the rides at their theme parks because they continue to screw over and disrespect the fanbase for Marvel. Marvel is still popular with a LOT of the populace but as long as Disney holds the Marvel license and continues to let activists and corporate shills run Marvel, NO ONE will support the brand out of principle. Period. Universal knows this and it's why they've continue to let Super Hero Island stay and show how much of a money-maker it can still be when you give the fans what they want. That and its a perfect middle finger to the mouse and a statement to show that Universal Studios will be first in line when Disney will be forced to sell off the license in the future.

[@capthemagic]

I don't think this rumor is true at all

[@TheGeekzNetwork]

DC fans: DC is better! They have rides at Six Flags Marvel fans: ha! Get out of here, Marvel is better bro. they have rides at Disneylands, Walt Disney World AND… Universal Orlando. 🌎 👌🏻

[@Club-Dreamiverse]

If Universal does acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount Global and Amazon MGM Studios, it could have a portfolio of IPs to choose from.

[@thedrewster0408]

If Universal acquires Warner Bros. I wouldn’t be surprised if Universal’s “mascot” Woody Woodpecker gets merged with the Looney Tunes IP given that both the former and Bugs Bunny were not only designed by Ben Hardaway but also originally voiced by Mel Blanc. And the latter having way more brand recognition. Heck, when I was at the main gift shop at Universal Studios Japan, the shop was playing the classic Looney Tunes theme from the classic shorts. Although that might be because the theme is probably public domain in Japan.

[@Club-Dreamiverse]

@@thedrewster0408 Or at least their own franchises? Do you like the thought of Universal buying out Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount Global and Amazon MGM Studios (from Amazon)?

[@thedrewster0408]

@@Club-Dreamiverse Hell No! They would have a total duopoly on the entertainment industry along with Disney if that were to happen.

[@Club-Dreamiverse]

@@thedrewster0408 Oh.

[@thedrewster0408]

@@Club-Dreamiverse Sorry, I didn’t mean to get aggressive from speaking like that.

[@dongossman2432]

I don't see this happening. Universal has spent a shit ton of money over the last decade updating the Hulk coaster and Amazing Spider-Man ride.

[@capthemagic]

That and the fact that they would be handing Disney a potential attraction/land that would be used against them

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagicReplace by Sonic The Hedgehog

[@hmbtfdcu5539]

I have a lot of ideas for this. Replace Marvel Super Hero Island including Simpsons Land with new theme land ride ideas. Jaws Splash Ride Back To The Future Ride K.I.T.T The Nightrider Ride Beetle Juice Ride & Land Area Terminator Ride Robocop Ride Star Trek Land Area & Ride Gi Joe Ride Ghostbusters Ride Scooby-Doo Ride Transformers Land & Rides That’s all I can think up.

[@jviola04]

I’m sure they renewed their contract with marvel mainly when I talked to a worker on the licensing of toys as they sell a bunch of merchandise and statues perpetrating the Disney cast of from marvel. Also with the recent investments into the Hulk and Spider-Man upgrades I can’t see this happening anytime soon

[@capthemagic]

The contract to my understanding is in perpetuity so doesn't require any renewing by either side, when it comes to toys and such those could be separate agreements or profit share setups perhaps

[@chrisbaker1091]

I think this will eventually happen and is actively being discussed. I don’t think it makes since for universal to keep the rights and keep spending money on these attractions “just as a defensive play.” Hulk is still a pretty popular ride, so I think it’s still a viable land at this time. I agree that they will probably do something with LOST continent first, then probably toon lagoon, and finally Dr Suess is in really bad condition and needs a refresh (unless this is where Pokémon is going). THEN, Superhero Island would be on the chopping block.

[@capthemagic]

I think business wise it makes the most sense to keep Marvel in IOA just so Disney can't use it against them. I just don't see a scearnio where they would give up the rights to Disney, at least anytime soon

[@hypnobearcoup2505]

I hope not, they’re using the brand way better than Disney.

[@lornesguitarcompany6504]

The contract is ironclad, Pokemon is rumored to be going into the former Sinbad area, Toon Lagon and Seuss Landing need major renovations and DC is in every Six Flags park. Over at Studios, Men in Black is long in the tooth, and if Springfield is yanked that is going to need major money and speed to replace. Not to mention the rumors that Rock N Rollercoaster is going to make way for Fast and Furious. Marvel Island is a win/win for both companies and Universal has more to lose if they give it up. Getting rid of it should be the last thing on the agenda.

[@himynameiscorey]

I really hope they relinquish Marvel to Disney but I don’t know it’ll happen. Either way every time I pass through this land I laugh with how outdated it looks. I love 90s Marvel nonetheless, but everything must eventually change.

[@keouine]

It isn't supposed to represent the movies but the comic books. It looks fine. Remember So many of the comics characters are decades old. Maintain the facades, improve and develop the insides.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@@keouine - Universal is barred from anything other than routine maintenance. They cannot develop that land, as the IP is owned by Disney.

[@kbraven7007]

I totally agree with you, let’s have Avengers campus in Disney world

[@CoastersandPop]

One of the biggest business franchises now are Nintendo. MSHI could be converted to a Nintendo land using different concepts - spider man becomes super smash bros or Mario & Luigi, hulk could be a Zelda themed launch, however it all depends on how much Disney would pay for the rights and if they need it right now. I suspect marvel isn’t actually the biggest draw at Disney theme parks, frozen is.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

@@CoastersandPop - I think Disney’s greatest draw is that they are Disney. Not specifically “Frozen”, which is more popular in the overseas parks. However “Avengers Campus” while popular, is viewed as an eyesore and stain on the Imagineering department. Since, it lacks the whimsy of the rest of Disneyland. Even “Cosmic Rewind” is just a modern-day “Space Mountain”, and similar to “Frozen” has not boosted EPCOT’s attendance. That park is just flawed, outdated, and boring for anyone who is not a Disney Adult.

[@capthemagic]

They will likely do even more Nintendo, while also maintaining Marvel Super Hero Island just so Disney can't use the IP against them. This is the part of the rumor that makes no sense. Why would Universal just give up those theme park rights?

[@brennacollins6000]

Sonic Replacing Marvel Super Hero Island

[@Kingmationproductionz]

I can see sonic at the Universal part at some point, especially since Sega said that they wanted to put sonic and theme parks at some point a few years ago

[@kbraven7007]

That would be the perfect replacement, I would totally love to see Sonic the Hedgehog in a theme park

[@brennacollins6000]

@@kbraven7007 Pikmin Replace Men in Black Alien Attack and World Expo at Universal Studios Florida

[@heathholmes]

Why doesn't Universal tap into Star Trek and Fast & Furious to build out lands. The fact Fast & Furious wasn't a rollercoaster was a huge missed opportunity. Star Trek could rival Star Wars land if built right.

[@PaulFeinberg]

I don't think it would be wise for Universal to give up the rights.....I want them to so we can get some epic MCU incorporated Rides LOL, but it wouldn't be a wise choice from Universal

[@gregg5958]

What if this rumor is really just a remodel? A “new fantasyland” if you will. I can’t envision Universal giving these characters (and the associated merchandise revenue) up so easily.

[@capthemagic]

I don't see them doing that either

[@jorgeldejesus8465]

Disney already tried to buy the rights to use the characters in their Florida parks, but nothing happens, that's why they can use Guardians of the Galaxy in EPCOT (those characters were not part of the rights deal), Universal could do some renovation to the area, a new Xmen Mansion , a Baxter F4 building , what they can do is redo the 3D Spiderman ride , ( negotiate with Disney the Rights of Spiderman in their parks like they did in the MCU), and make it a F4 ride Vs Dr. Doom , and hold the rights , but simply ditch their Marvel characters is very unlikely, , is more feasible they do the Detective Pikachu area, the Legend of Zelda ( a cheaper option would be a Street Fighter vs Xmen area ) , but when Epic Universe opens , the Revenue $ would dictate what possible new land or IP will be added to the parks

[@capthemagic]

From my understanding Universal can't really add new attractions in their Marvel Land but just do upkeep and upgrades. But not 100% certain on that

[@mariofernandez608]

Getting rid of the spiderman and hulk rides would be a big mistake

[@RM-jo8gy]

They better not work on replacing marvel while lost continent sits devoid of attractions. That must get attention first.

[@stephenfreitas8546]

I have always thought it was a mistake to keep the Marvel characters in Island of Adventure. Universal is giving a quarter of its park to Disney.

[@capthemagic]

From Universal's perspective though, it's still better to have Super Hero Island be what it is vs letting Disney have the Marvel rights knowing those very rights would be used against them in terms of the Orlando Theme Park Market

[@brennacollins6000]

​@@capthemagicSonic The Hedgehog Based on Sonic The Hedgehog Video Games to Replace Marvel

[@Mahado]

Technically Disney can use Shang-chi, too, if they want to. Shang-chi would go well, near Mulan by Epcot area.

[@capthemagic]

I don't think Shan-Chi is a property they would bring into the parks

[@caseycieslikowski2929]

Probably tired of giving royalties to their competition.

[@shaneh3109]

They'd better not. That land is awesome

[@rainniu]

I just want Disney to be able to use Marvel characters in WDW. Super Hero Island should remain.

[@hmangaming35]

I'm praying that this rumor is FALSE. Universal acquired the Marvel contract back in the 90's because Marvel was going bankrupt due to the 90s Comic Book crash. Universal was originally negotiating with Warner Bros. to have DC Comics at Islands Of Adventure but that deal/contract negotiations failed miserably. I do NOT trust current Disney or the Disney Parks Division to create rides that are just as good as Spider-man or The Incredible Hulk Coaster. I also love the attention to detail and Easter Eggs/references that the 90s Universal Creative Team put into Marvel Super Hero Island.

[@MichelleAlexandria-EM]

It's funny how Disney can't use their own characters in the their parks. That's Karma

[@NickiMinajIsCancelled]

They won’t touch it until they replace Simpsons with Pokémon and lost continent with Zelda. It makes more sense to have a new island (Zelda) up and running in that park before closing one of the biggest lands for construction. They still need to make the existing parks as attractive as possible

[@capthemagic]

Agreed. If they do give up the Marvel rights I don't think it happens for another decade or so

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagic Sonic The Hedgehog Replacing Marvel And Pikmin Replace Men in Black Alien Attack

[@rocklee5090]

Universal will never give up those marvel rights, dumbest move ever

[@ScottKrissPittardMcAree]

I really hope not because I've never been able to afford to go here and I have always wanted too.

[@capthemagic]

They aren't going to get rid of the Marvel area any time soon.

[@ScottKrissPittardMcAree]

@@capthemagic Oh good, I want the chance to see it in person one day, it feels like the Marvel I grew up with before the MCU became what people see as Marvel. :)

[@armandohernandez7164]

Although I can see a scenario where both sides come to an agreement to share Marvel

[@capthemagic]

I would be shocked if that happened in the next decade IMO

[@michaelwaulters3982]

Make it ninja turtles

[@kbraven7007]

That would be awesome

[@capthemagic]

I would love a true Ninja Turtles ride but I think the theme park rights are tied up elsewhere

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagic Sonic The Hedgehog Replacing Marvel

[@Nygon08]

i think land wise lost cont needs fixing first seuss landing is almost as big as the other lands and considering its not popular i assume they wanna get rid of that aswell then after both those are messed with i assume they will do something with skull island because that was a flop then they probably gonna touch the cartoon are before superhero island aswell so after all those in like 20 years time maybe they will touch it

[@capthemagic]

I think a 20 year timeline on the Marvel stuff is a plausible one before Universal would change anything there

[@daryellchao8872]

Bring back back to the future with today’s technology

[@capthemagic]

Would love Back To The Future to come back!

[@randomfools808]

No. It's not happening. Universal just recently redid the track for Hulk. They refurbished Spider-Man. That ride is too popular and I believe Spielberg had a hand in the development of that again. It would be more likely for Universal to add to this area or rehaul it then sell it back to Disney. Universal would really need to be hurting for money to do that and I don't think they are.

[@capthemagic]

Agreed

[@adrianrocha6844]

It’s not being torn down Spider-Man is just going under refurbishment again that’s all you can go look it up and universal slams the replacement rumors

[@davidarrington4144]

While I do believe Universal represented Marvel before Disney… I don’t hate this, especially when you consider what Universal could put instead. US basically owns the Amusement Park rights to Dreamworks the same way Disney does Pixar. The Hulk ride could definitely be repurposed to Shrek Coaster, portraying where he invades the castle and saves Princess Fiona. Other space could be turned into an immersive ride for Madagascar (THEY NEVER SHOULD’VE GOT RID OF THE BOAT RIDE) or a Kung Fu Panda ride. Yeah, it’ll be heartbreaking to see US classics leave. But there is so much promise in some rides

[@capthemagic]

Even if Universal had a great idea for something to replace Super Hero Island, they would be handing their biggest rival one of their most popular IP's to use against them in a Disney Park. For that reason alone I'm going to assume this never happens, or at least anytime soon

[@davidarrington4144]

@@capthemagic It probably won’t, but part of me also feels like when someone who doesn’t visit Universal regularly goes on those rides, it makes them think of Disney because Disney has made Spider Man and Hulk very synonymous with them and they’ve killed it with X Men 97. Maybe, if the franchise ever grows big enough, we could see Marvel buy the theme park rights to “Invincible”… or even Power Rangers, I’m shocked there isn’t any representation for that franchise in any American amusement parks

[@JSTRonline2]

I personsally don't care for the 90s era Marvel, it just seems like a time capsule, that only people who grew up reading and watching 90s marvel stuff will appreciate. I think Disney will eventually come to the negotiating table for those rights once they're done with everything they have planned for the next 5 years. IOA needs some help in other areas that need a retheme, Toon Lagoon and Lost Continent gotta go, especially the later, something needs to replace that sooner rather than later. Hopefully once Epic Universe is up and running they can shift focus to IOA.

[@capthemagic]

I think they will be pretty aggressive in what they add to both Studios and IOA once Epic is open

[@thezemag]

No no no no no -please just be click bait. Toon Lagoon & Lost Continent have way more urgency in the need to be replaced. In my mind, the style of comic-art Marvel is not associated at all with the Disney brand.

[@SteveDave211]

Univeral isn't that stupid to give up those rights. Its too popular and getting more popular. Even Simpsons Universal dropped the ball as it could be themed and have more stuff and even in HHN they should have a Treehouse of horror Simpsons theme yet nothing. Pokémon is huge yet nobody wants a Zelda land. Marvel ain't going anywhere.

[@capthemagic]

Agreed except I do think a Zelda Land would be a big hit and I can’t go into details but some of the ideas they have for that land are pretty cool

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagic Sonic The Hedgehog Replacing Marvel Super Hero Island and Pikmin Replace Men in Black Alien Attack and Fear Factor Live

[@LarsRussell-iv2ny]

Oh this is so not true. No way Universal would give Disney Marvel.

[@capthemagic]

Agreed

[@Thundervolt888]

I don’t think universal can give marvel and all its ip the amusement park it deserves I’d hope Disney can but I also don’t have faith in them either 😂

[@welfaremking]

I do not believe this Pokémon’s gonna go to The Simpsons land universal is able to spite Disney too much with having the theme park rights in Florida to lose them.

[@bigthrillsmike3950]

I don’t see it happening at least not in the near future. Next 10 years maybe but not before then.

[@capthemagic]

Agreed

[@TimothyKline-u4r]

Avengers campus at Disneyland is terrible

[@capthemagic]

I've heard that from many people actually

[@OakForestBoys]

Toon Lagoon is an awesome land

[@capthemagic]

It has it's charm but it's prime real estate being used up by old cartoons that aren''t drawing people to the park

[@ct.v.782]

I will never except for replace

[@TimothyKline-u4r]

I'm pretty sure six flags owns the rights to DC comics and their heroes

[@capthemagic]

Pretty sure they do as well

[@armandohernandez7164]

I hope so I would love an Avengers campus in Disney World

[@USATFJUMPER]

well universal has rights to the comics while disney has the right to the cinematics. I dont think this will go away

[@tallzxdriver]

I see them getting rid of Simpsons first. Its not as valuable of a property as Marvel and the ride there is terrible.

[@keouine]

Toon Lagoon's Popeye and Bluto's would be more popular if they'd shut off the worst offending soakers spouts. I 've seen them do this in winter, Dudley Doo right though breaks down frequently and lousy repair records often seems to have preceded the disappearance of Jaws and Kongfrontation. Probably there are other factors at play. Other rides with lots of down time seems to last forever. who knows?

[@capthemagic]

Ya, Toon Lagoon as a whole just needs to be replaced IMO

[@Ay3shizzle]

I really hope this is just a rumor.

[@moonscore]

I’ve thought about how this licensing situation would end up for years. Here’s how a transfer could make sense: What if we weren’t actually looking at a monetary transaction, but a trade of IP license under even more favorable terms. Hear me out - with the FOX acquisition, Disney is swimming in IP that is positively off-brand for the mouse house, whose potential for exploitation in theme parks is impenetrable, even in their greedy, gloved hands. Alien, Predator, Planet of the Apes, and yes, even the Simpsons doesn’t make sense in a Disney park. Perhaps Disney gets romantic and offers Universal an enormous IP bouquet in order to secure their new crown jewel in Marvel. That being said, MSI is still superior to the MCU attractions Disney has produced, so I hate to see it go.

[@ChienaAvtzon]

Disney purchased FOX to keep it out of Universal’s hands.

[@brendanbloyed9440]

just focus on the lost continents... smh

[@capthemagic]

I can say details but they are working on something for that land...

[@adamflanders1092]

Disney would turn Epcot future world into Stark expo.

[@capthemagic]

That would make the most since if they got to use Marvel at Disney World

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagic Sonic The Hedgehog Replace Marvel At Universal’s Islands of Adventure

[@dominicanheat2790]

Sounds like wdwnt is just typing their pipe dream 😒

[@TimothyKline-u4r]

As I see it Simpson's land, although I would be sad can go because Disney World will not build a Simpsons land. It's not worth it to them. However, they should pay them just a little bit of money to keep their marvel heroes because if they allow Disney to do a Marvel's land it will definitely take away more attention and more money from Universal in the big picture

[@capthemagic]

I think the Simpson's when it comes to theme parks is probably on it's last leg cause I agree, I don't see Disney doing anything with The Simpsons in their parks

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagic Pokémon Replace The Simpsons and Sonic The Hedgehog Replace Marvel

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagic Pikmin Replace Men in Black Alien Attack and World Expo at Universal Studios Florida and The Legend of Zelda Replace The Lost Continent at Universal Islands of Adventure

[@SliceOfRandom]

If Universal does Pokemon in Islands of Adventure... 😨 Shite. I'd need to redo my concept art... Seriously tho, with Zelda being a front runner for the lost continent, I don't see nintendo being double-beat in the same park. That simpson's ride building size and location has "New Pokemon Snap: The Ride" Written alllll over it 😐

[@capthemagic]

Agreed

[@pacman072286]

I think the Pokemon land should be where the Simpsons land is at, that contract is over by 2027/2028 so by then they should just put it there. Universal should keep that Marvel land at all times.

[@capthemagic]

That's what they are likely doing from everything I've heard

[@kddhd9704]

I don’t see them getting rid of marvel super hero island. The fact that they got this IP was a blessing that they weren’t aware of at the time. It was sold to them for cheap since Marvel was on their financial deathbed, and not only has marvel’s popularity increased since then, more so than DC, but they also are keeping Marvel from Disney parks. And they completely redid Hulk so If we assume they will let rebuilt Hulk run its course it should last as long as its predecessor so I see them keeping marvel island until mid 2030s.

[@metallicnole4514]

Hulk could easily be rethemed to something else, like the decepticoaster in china

[@kddhd9704]

@@metallicnole4514 true, but that would be an expensive endeavor considering rebuilt hulk is probably about halfway through its lifespan. (The first hulk lasted 16 years, dueling dragons, another b&m, lasted 17)

[@roke7652]

If the rumor is true, and they replace Marvel land with Pokémon that will make a huge negative impact on that theme park. They already have one of their islands, lost continent, which is absolutely useless. They can’t afford to add Pokémon land cause that would make it 2 useless islands inside islands of adventure.

[@capthemagic]

I think Pokemon is going to replace the Simpsons area on the studios side

[@roke7652]

@@capthemagic simpsons area needs to go. Pokeman there would work. IoA needs some help! The lost continent is wasted space for over a decade especially since they shutdown Poseidon Fury. If Disney pulls the plug with universal, a DC transition would make sense. Hulk will turn into Superman. Spider man will be Batman, doom tower will be Joker, etc…

[@brennacollins6000]

@@roke7652 Marvel Retheme to Sonic The Hedgehog

[@roke7652]

@@brennacollins6000 that would suck

[@dakotamike]

Not gonna happen. Keeping Marvel out of WDW is reason enough for Universal to maintain their Marvel Island.

[@capthemagic]

Yup. I just don't see them letting go of it

[@AuthorJosephCruz]

It would be like the Kansas City Chiefs being like hey, San Fran 49ers, why don’t we just give you Patrick Mahomes

[@Jasonsmith-xs8vq]

It’s toon lagoon they need to redo not Marvel. Not many people care about that land and most just walk straight through it

[@capthemagic]

Ya, there are areas of IOA that need more help than the Marvel area

[@robertroy92]

i hope dc remplace marvel theme park

[@devinsantiago5357]

i wanna see it turn into gotham city

[@capthemagic]

Would be cool but DC rights are tied up with Six Flags

[@brennacollins6000]

@@capthemagicMarvel Retheme to Sonic The Hedgehog