Disney is, without a doubt, the biggest animated franchise in the world, with its productions dating back to the 1920s when animation was still in the early stages.
It has come a long way since and released several outstanding films that fans adore. However, recently, a rumor began spreading across social media platforms that Disney is retiring. Is that true?
No. Disney is not retiring but is celebrating its 100th anniversary by releasing a short titled “Once Upon a Studio,” which brings back almost every major character who appeared in its films for a group photo. The Walt Disney Company was established in 1923.
Why Is “Disney Retiring” Trending on Social Media?
The Walt Disney Company, which created numerous classics such as Pinocchio, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and Aladdin, was established on October 16, 1923, by the Disney brothers (Walt and Roy).
This October 16th marks its 100th anniversary, so due to this special occasion, Disney has released an eight-minute short video titled “Once Upon a Studio” on Disney+.
This short video opens with the headquarters of Roy E. Disney Animation Building, where the employees leave the building, and the last two remaining quotes, “If only these walls could talk.”
Following this, every central character so far appeared in Disney films, including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Genie, Elsa, and many others, come to life, waking up everyone that was featured inside the company through wall frame pictures.
Once everyone is gathered outside the company, they try to take a picture that highlights the 100th anniversary of the franchise. However, Goofy, who is taking the picture, falls from the ladder and breaks the camera.
Disappointed, everyone tries to leave the scene, but Alan Dale plays When You Wish Upon a Star while Fix-It Felix from Wreck-It Ralph repairs the camera, making their dream come true.
So, we can understand from the initial quote, which prompts the viewers to infer the conversation is some sort of farewell, but in reality, it is a nostalgic one-liner that emphasizes the history of Disney.
Eventually, fans misinterpreted what Disney was conveying and began posting how Disney would retire following its next production. It is to be noted that Disney holds a hundred-year legacy, which is impossible to erase.
Usually, studios retire when they can’t get hold of projects or go bankrupt, but in the case of Disney, it is inconceivable, so fans can rest assured that Disney is not retiring and will probably never.
How Are Disney Fans Reacting to the Rumors?
Following the short video shared by Disney, many people took to platforms such as TikTok and X and began spreading the word that Disney would be retiring.
While a few may have been sarcastic remarks to gain attention, a few people have genuinely believed that Disney is going out of business.
TikTok users posted videos like “POV: She recently found out that Disney is retiring and can’t hold her tears for an hour.” Meanwhile, people began tweeting nonstop to confirm whether it was true.
Here are some notable reactions from the fans that you may find amusing since they are all embracing the fake news:
So, what do you think about the rumor concerning Disney? Did you believe it when you heard it the first time?