Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Hollywood Studios briefly appeared renamed as Smugglers Run — A New Mission on Disney’s systems before the name was quickly reverted. But here’s the actual news: a major update is confirmed for May 22, 2026, bringing a new storyline featuring Mando and Grogu to the attraction. The rename was premature — the experience overhaul is not.
What Happened with the Name Change?
Disney’s systems briefly listed the attraction under a new name — Smugglers Run — A New Mission — before it was pulled back to the original title. This kind of premature digital update happens occasionally when backend changes go live before official announcements are ready. The revert suggests the new name may still be coming, tied to the May 22 update — or Disney may keep the original name and simply update the storyline.
The Mandalorian Update: What’s Changing
The confirmed May 22, 2026 update brings a Mandalorian and Grogu storyline to the attraction. This is a meaningful shift from the current Hondo Ohnaka-led mission. The Mandalorian series has become one of the most popular Star Wars properties in Disney+’s catalog, and integrating Din Djarin and Grogu into the Falcon gives the ride a narrative hook that resonates with audiences who may be less connected to the original trilogy-era references.
The May update for the attraction aligns with the release of the new Mando and Grogu theatrical production.
Does the Ride System Change?
No specific details have been confirmed about changes to the physical ride system. The update appears focused on the story, pre-show, and in-cabin experience rather than the ride mechanics. The three-role system — pilot, gunner, and engineer — is expected to remain. The mission itself is where the Mando/Grogu narrative will be integrated.
Why This Update Makes Sense
Smugglers Run has consistently been one of Hollywood Studios’ lower-rated attractions in terms of guest satisfaction, partly because the outcome feels less epic than the galaxy around you suggests it should be. This is especially true for guests in the Gunner or Engineer roles. A fresh Mandalorian storyline with one of Star Wars’ most beloved current characters gives the ride a narrative energy boost without requiring a full physical overhaul. May 22, 2026 is your target date.
If Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run has been a skip for you in the past, the May 2026 Mandalorian update is worth reconsidering. Mando and Grogu bring an emotional core to the mission that the original version lacked. Add it back to your Hollywood Studios plan for a summer 2026 visit and see if the new storyline changes the experience.
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I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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