We may have our first real clue about when the new Carousel of Progress opens. Bryan Cranston, who voices John, the father, in the updated Magic Kingdom attraction, says he thinks the Carousel of Progress will reopen in May 2027.
Disney has only said the attraction will return in late spring 2027. A May opening would fit right inside that window, but Disney hasn’t confirmed a specific date. Here’s what Cranston said, what’s new in the show, and how to plan around it.
Quick Summary
- Bryan Cranston said he thinks the new Carousel of Progress opens in May 2027
- Disney has officially said only “late spring 2027”
- Cranston voices John, the father, and Jamie Lee Curtis voices Sarah, the mother
- Debi Derryberry returns to the show, now as Grandmother
- Carousel of Progress closed on July 5, 2026, for the biggest update in its history
- The new show includes an Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney and four new acts
What Bryan Cranston Said
During a recent visit to La Cava del Tequila at EPCOT, Cranston chatted with guests about his role in the updated show. When asked when it would open, he said, “I think in May next year for sure.”
When pressed on whether he meant this coming May, he answered, “This coming May. I think so.”
That’s not an official announcement, and Cranston isn’t the one setting the schedule. But it’s the most specific timing we’ve heard from anyone connected to the project.
His Agents Recommended a Pass
Cranston also shared a fun story about how he landed the role. His agents brought him the offer but suggested he turn it down, telling him there was “a thing that Disney is doing, Carousel of Progress,” and that they’d probably recommend a pass.
His reaction? He couldn’t believe it, and his answer was simple: he was in.
He also confirmed that Jamie Lee Curtis is voicing the mother, Sarah. Disney announced both actors during the “Horizons: A Carousel of Progress” showcase at D23 earlier this year.
A Fan Since 1964
Cranston’s connection to the attraction goes back decades. He said he first saw Carousel of Progress at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, then again at Disneyland, and later at Walt Disney World.
He described the show as sweet, with a nostalgic feel that gives the audience a nice break. He also mentioned he might visit Walt Disney World to see the new show during his days off from a stage play he’s working on.
What’s New in the Updated Carousel of Progress
Carousel of Progress closed on July 5, 2026, for the biggest update in its history. The new show includes:
- A new opening scene with an Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney
- Act 1: Summer 1969, the Apollo moon landing
- Act 2: Halloween night, 1985
- Act 3: New Year’s Eve, 1999
- Act 4: A vision of the future
Along with Cranston and Curtis, Debi Derryberry returns to the show as Grandmother. She previously voiced Patricia, the daughter. You can read more about her return in our story on how the original Carousel of Progress voice returns, from daughter to grandmother.
Why the Carousel of Progress Reopening Date Matters
If you’re planning a Magic Kingdom trip for spring 2027, the timing is a big deal. Carousel of Progress is a Tomorrowland classic, and the new version with a Walt Disney figure is likely to draw big crowds when it opens.
Here’s how we’d think about it:
- Trips in March or April 2027: Don’t count on the new show being open.
- Trips in May 2027: You might catch it, but there’s no guarantee. Watch for Disney to announce an official date.
- Trips in June 2027 or later: Your chances are much better, since that’s well within the “late spring” window.
Expect long waits in the first few weeks. Carousel of Progress has usually been an easy walk-on, but a brand-new show with a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics figure could change that, at least for a while.
Tips for Planning Around the Reopening
- Wait for an official date before booking a trip just for this.
- Check soft openings. Disney sometimes previews attractions for Cast Members or guests before the official opening.
- Plan an early visit. If you’re there in the first few weeks, head to Tomorrowland early or late in the day.
- Pair it with Tomorrowland favorites. Carousel of Progress is a seated, indoor show, so it’s a nice break between rides like Space Mountain and the PeopleMover.
The Bottom Line
Bryan Cranston thinks the Carousel of Progress reopening will happen in May 2027, which fits Disney’s official “late spring 2027” window. It’s a strong hint, but not a confirmed date.
The updated show features Cranston as John, Jamie Lee Curtis as Sarah, Debi Derryberry as Grandmother, a new Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics figure, and four new acts. Until Disney announces an opening date, treat May 2027 as a good possibility rather than a sure thing.
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
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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