A Magical Look Back: Disneyland Celebrates 70 Years on ABC 20/20 September 21st
Get ready to celebrate seven decades of magic as Disneyland turns 70! A new television special, “The Happiest Story on Earth: 70 Years of Disneyland,“ will air on Sunday, September 21, at 8 p.m. EDT on ABC, with streaming available the next day on Hulu and Disney+.
Announced by ABC News Studios, the special promises to reveal the stories and secrets behind Walt Disney’s original dream. From the earliest days of the park to what’s next for the resort, this two-hour event is designed for both the most devoted fans and those simply curious about the “Happiest Place on Earth.”
A Walk Down Memory Lane with Disney’s Biggest Fans
The special features reflections from some of Hollywood’s biggest names and most avid Disney fans, including Neil Patrick Harris, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jon Favreau, Patrick Warburton, and Tiffany Haddish. Viewers will also get an exclusive message from Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, who share what the park means to them and their family.
You’ll also hear from people who helped bring the magic to life, including former Disney Imagineer Bob Gurr, who was there on opening day working alongside Walt Disney himself. Actress Julie Andrews shares memories of visiting the park with Walt, while actor Josh Gad reflects on his dream come true when he got to be a skipper on the Jungle Cruise.
Behind the Magic: From Rides to the Future
The special takes viewers behind the scenes of Disneyland’s most iconic attractions, from the Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean to the Haunted Mansion. Get a rare peek inside the control room for “World of Color,” a place usually only accessible to cast members. You’ll see how these spectacular shows are brought to life with mind-bending technology.
Looking to the future, the show offers a sneak peek at upcoming attractions at Disney California Adventure Park, including a new expansion for Avengers Campus, a Coco-themed ride, and a new Avatar destination. You’ll also get a look at the groundbreaking new audio-animatronics figure of Walt Disney himself, created for the upcoming “Walt Disney – A Magical Life“ attraction.
Bob Iger, The Walt Disney Company’s CEO, also weighs in on what’s next for the Disneyland Resort as it continues to innovate and inspire new generations.
Don’t miss “The Happiest Story on Earth: 70 Years of Disneyland” on Sunday, September 21, on ABC, and the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
A Magical Look Back: Disneyland Celebrates 70 Years on ABC 20/20 September 21st
