For more than a century, The Walt Disney Company has continued to expand the ways in which audiences interact with its stories. At this year’s South by Southwest® (SXSW®) conference in Austin, Texas, Disney Consumer Products (DCP) showcased exactly how that legacy is expanding — powered by cultural insight, emotional storytelling, and innovative collaborations that meet fans wherever they are.

On March 13, Tasia Filippatos, President of Disney Consumer Products, took to the SXSW stage to detail how the business has grown into a commercial powerhouse, extending Disney’s iconic characters far beyond screens and theme parks into everyday categories such as sports, beauty, fashion, jewelry, and home décor.

Amplifying a Legacy of Magic

Filippatos opened her talk, “Shaping Brand Relevance for a New Generation,” with a simple statement: each person’s experience with Disney is deeply personal. Whether it’s a memory of a family trip to Disneyland, trick-or-treating dressed as a beloved Disney character, or singing a favorite song on repeat, Disney stories don’t just entertain; they stay with us. And while many fans know Disney for its films and theme parks, DCP is the engine that brings those stories to life in the hands of consumers around the world.

But, Filippatos cautioned, “legacy alone isn’t a strategy for the future.” Disney’s challenge, and opportunity, is to remain meaningful to each new generation. To sustain that emotional connection, DCP is evolving how fans experience Disney stories by meeting them where they are, embracing new platforms and touchpoints that make Disney part of daily life.

Inside the World of Disney Consumer Products

Disney’s consumer products business anchors a $62 billion global retail ecosystem, inclusive of the world’s largest licensing operation. Spanning more than 100 product categories across 180 countries, DCP brings storytelling to life from mass retailers like Walmart to luxury brands such as Gucci, and from games to publishing. At every level, the work is guided by a single purpose: to “create happiness every day.”

Evolving With a New Generation of Fans

With younger generations shaping global trends faster than ever, DCP is adapting to meet the expectations of digital‑native audiences. Filippatos invited Ron Faris, DCP’s Head of Global Marketing, to unpack how fandom drives cultural relevance. His insight: youth don’t just consume culture; they create it, remix it, and scale it.

From games like Roblox and Fortnite to video platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts, today’s fans interact with Disney stories on their own terms, and Disney’s approach is evolving accordingly.

As Faris explained, the Disney playbook is built on three core ingredients: story, product, and experience, with story as the foundation. “Story is the most important. That’s the lore,” he said, noting that Disney continually shapes and remixes its stories to drive energy and emotion across different segments of consumers. With trading cards and vintage thrifting emerging as two of the biggest youth trends today, DCP leans into high-heat drops and collectible formats like blind boxes, which deepen emotional engagement. Together, this approach allows DCP to create culturally relevant moments that resonate with new audiences.

Games as a Gateway into Disney Stories

With nine game franchises surpassing $1 billion, Disney games aren’t simple adaptations of box office hits. Instead, they’re full-fledged storytelling universes. Filippatos also welcomed Sean Shoptaw, EVP of Games & Digital Entertainment, to discuss how gaming has become one of the most powerful entry points into Disney storytelling.

“Today’s consumers expect to have a voice,” said Filippatos. “And they’re looking for community and shared experiences on these platforms.”

Shoptaw highlighted the company’s partnership with Epic Games, showcasing the enormous potential ahead as the boundaries between games, content, and interactive worlds continue to blur.

Emotion at the Heart of Creativity

Emotion drives everything at Disney and that includes consumer products. To explore this idea, Marcus Rosie, Head of Global Creative, joined Filippatos onstage to talk about how DCP designs products and experiences starting with the question: “What do we want people to feel?”

Pointing to examples ranging from Selfridges’ enchanting and immersive holiday takeover in London to a globally celebrated Disney’s The Lion King collaboration with Balmain, shot on location in Africa and the award-winning Bath & Body Works Disney Princess and Villains fragrance collections, Rosie stressed how emotion transforms products into cultural moments. “Once we define the emotional destination – whether it’s wonder, nostalgia, humor or joy – everything else becomes a design choice,” he said. “Emotion is what turns a moment into a memory.”

Unexpected Collaborations, Made Authentically Disney

The session also spotlighted collaborations that spark curiosity and cultural conversation.

Bobby Kim, DCP’s Global Creative Director, shared how Disney chooses collaborators whose stories align with the company’s DNA, leading to partnerships that feel surprising, yet unmistakably Disney.

“Collaborations are not just a way to share someone else’s story,” said Kim, “but to shine a light on the nuances and facets of your own brand that you might not have seen otherwise. What you say about the collaborator really says more about yourself.”

The Disney x Formula 1® “Fuel the Magic” collaboration was an unexpected pairing that unlocked engagement with a massive global fanbase of 860 million people and made Mickey Mouse an instant star in the F1 paddock. The kick-off spot last May sparked the highest engagement F1 has ever seen around any of its partnership announcements.

From the SXSW stage, Filippatos announced the next step in the “Fuel the Magic” campaign — a partnership with F1 Academy, supporting the next generation of female racers while celebrating Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck.

A Blueprint for Staying Relevant

To close the session, Filippatos highlighted one more example that captures the spirit of Disney’s evolving cultural relevance: the 2024 Coperni runway show at Disneyland Paris, which closed out Paris Fashion Week in front of some of the world’s leading tastemakers.

Ultimately, each example discussed reinforced the central idea at the heart of Filippatos’ message, which is relevance is built through creativity, authenticity, and emotional connection. When brands build meaningful connections with their audiences, the magic naturally follows.

Thomas Mazloum Named Chairman, Disney Experiences

Disney Experiences announced today a series of leadership appointments, underscoring the strength and versatility of its leadership team. “We’re in an unprecedented period of growth for Disney Experiences,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences and incoming Chief Executive Officer of the Walt Disney Company. “This team will propel the world-class experiences Disney is known for to more guests across the globe.”

Thomas Mazloum succeeds Josh D’Amaro as Chairman, Disney Experiences, leading a diverse portfolio of global businesses including Disney’s theme parks, cruise ships, resort hotels, expeditions and adventures, consumer products, and Walt Disney Imagineering, the creative engine behind Disney’s experiences portfolio.

Mazloum brings deep operational knowledge of Disney Experiences, a strong record of international leadership, and a long-standing commitment to Disney’s cast members and creative culture. With the guest experience at the center of everything, he will lead the business into its next chapter as it continues to grow and evolve globally.

Before joining Disney, Mazloum built a strong foundation in European luxury hospitality, gaining extensive experience across high‑end hotels in food & beverage, guest services, and hotel operations. He later served as Chief Operating Officer of Crystal Cruise Line, where he was known for driving service excellence, transforming organizational cultures, and successfully launching new travel ventures.

As part of his Disney career, Mazloum held senior leadership roles at Walt Disney World Resort before being named President, Disney Signature Experiences. In that role, he developed a long‑term strategic growth plan that included doubling the size of the Disney Cruise Line fleet. With the recent launch of Disney Adventure in Singapore — the cruise line’s eighth ship and its first homeported in Asia — the business expanded into new growth markets and reached the next generation of fans.

Most recently, as President, Disneyland Resort, Mazloum oversaw two theme parks, three hotels, and the Downtown Disney District during the Resort’s 70th anniversary celebration.

“Thomas Mazloum is an exceptional leader with a genuine appreciation for our cast members and a proven track record of delivering growth,” said D’Amaro. “His focus on service excellence, broad international leadership, and strong connection to the creativity that brings our stories to life make him the right leader to guide Disney Experiences into its next chapter.”

Disney Experiences also announced the following changes to its leadership team, with all roles reporting to Mazloum:

• Jill Estorino — President, Disneyland Resort
• Tasia Filippatos — President, Disney Parks International
• Lisa Baldzicki — President, Disney Consumer Products

Jill Estorino has been named President, Disneyland Resort, where she will continue to elevate the guest and cast experience at the company’s original, iconic destination.

Over her 35-year career, Estorino held numerous leadership roles, including Executive Vice President of Global Marketing and Sales for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, where she played a key role in the grand opening of Shanghai Disney Resort. Most recently, as President of Disney Parks International, Estorino oversaw the operations, expansion and development of Disney’s international parks and resorts, including Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disney Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort with the Oriental Land Company. Estorino successfully expanded Disney’s global footprint at sites around the world, reaching new consumers and fans from around the world. Since her appointment, Disney’s international parks have seen strong performance and growth.

In her new role as Disneyland Resort President, Estorino brings a global perspective shaped by decades of leadership across Disney’s diverse portfolio of experiences. As a strong business and marketing strategist, she focuses on brand stewardship, exceptional guest experiences, and a deeply connected cast culture. Estorino will guide the resort through its next phase of growth while continuing to foster the culture and community that has defined Disneyland.

Tasia Filippatos is appointed President, Disney Parks International, overseeing the growth and evolution of Disney’s parks outside the United States.

Most recently, Filippatos served as President of Disney Consumer Products, guiding the business through a period of transformation fueled by innovation-led growth. Her leadership included a global portfolio spanning products, Parks merchandise, retail, publishing and games while translating iconic storytelling into scaled consumer experiences through premier brand partnerships worldwide.

In her new role as President of Disney Parks International, Filippatos brings a proven track record of leading complex global businesses at scale across diverse international markets. A visionary leader at the forefront of creativity and innovation, she will oversee the operations, expansion, and development of Disney’s international parks — including Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland, Tokyo Disney Resort in partnership with Oriental Land Company, and our newest park coming to Abu Dhabi in partnership with Miral.

Lisa Baldzicki is promoted to President, Disney Consumer Products, where she will continue to build on the great momentum and evolution of our global consumer products business.

Baldzicki was most recently head of Parks Product Development & Retail for Disney Consumer Products, where she defined the vision and business strategy for retail product and integrated experiences across Disney’s domestic parks. She brought a consumer-led merchandising perspective to the role, shaping strategies that drive how guests engage with products and brands before, during, and after purchase.

In her new role as President, Disney Consumer Products, she will lead the continued evolution of the global retail division of The Walt Disney Company. The division includes the world’s largest licensing business with a presence across more than 100 product categories and a global reach spanning over 180 countries.

“As we look ahead, I have tremendous confidence in Thomas and in the leaders stepping into these roles — Jill, Tasia, and Lisa — along with the incredible leadership team across Disney Experiences,” said D’Amaro. “Together, they will continue to build on our momentum around the world, delivering the service, creativity and one-of-a-kind experiences that define Disney.”

Transitions will get under way in the next few weeks, with all roles effective March 18, 2026.

New brand campaign, products, publishing titles and content will spotlight Pooh and his legacy

Disney is commemorating 100 years of Winnie the Pooh by honoring the gentle humor, timeless wisdom, and boundless imagination that have made the ‘hunny’-loving bear beloved for generations. This centennial milestone marks the 1926 publication of A.A. Milne’s original Winnie‑the‑Pooh book and will be celebrated throughout 2026 with new product collaborations, storytelling moments, and publishing releases inspired by Pooh’s century-long legacy.

A Legacy Rooted in Storytelling and Animation

Pooh’s relationship with Disney began nearly 60 years ago, when Walt Disney introduced the Hundred Acre Wood to audiences through animation. Since those early featurettes, generations of Disney animators have shaped Pooh’s on‑screen personality with warmth, simplicity, and storybook-inspired artistry. Disney Legend Mark Henn served as supervising animator for Pooh in the 2011 Walt Disney Animation Studios feature Winnie the Pooh, helping further define the gentle charm that continues to resonate with fans.  

“Animating Winnie the Pooh has been one of the greatest joys of my career. His warmth, curiosity, and subtle expressions allow animators to explore some of the most heartfelt storytelling in the Disney tradition,” said Mark Henn, Disney Legend and animator.

This animation legacy remains central to Pooh’s identity, reinforcing his place as one of Disney’s most heartfelt and enduring characters. 

The Walt Disney Archives Celebrates Pooh’s Century of Stories

As part of the centennial, the Walt Disney Archives is highlighting its extensive Winnie the Pooh collection, which preserves artwork, documents, animation materials, consumer products, and one-of-a-kind artifacts chronicling Pooh’s evolution since the 1960s. 

Among the collection are early 1960s plush toys created by Gund, one of the longest‑running Pooh licensees. Gund’s plush characters, treasured by generations of fans, remain a significant part of the archival product story. Its legacy continues today, as Gund still brings new Pooh items to market, building on decades of craftsmanship and emotional connection for fans of all ages. Some of Gund’s latest Winnie the Pooh-inspired items include the Oh So Sunggly Winnie the Pooh plush, the Peek-a-Boo Winnie the Pooh Animated Plush, and their Disney Winnie the Pooh Collection.

From publication artwork to vintage merchandise and production ephemera, the Archives offers a unique window into the creativity that has defined Pooh’s journey.

“This collection gives fans a rare opportunity to see some materials that would shape Winnie the Pooh’s on‑screen and consumer‑products legacy, from early merchandise to early studio production documentation that reflects the craft behind his charm,” said Kevin M. Kern, Sr. Manager, Research, Walt Disney Archives.

The Archives’ ongoing work ensures future generations can continue to explore the artistry that has helped define Pooh’s journey.

A New Brand Campaign Brings Fans into the Hundred Acre Wood

To celebrate Pooh’s 100th anniversary, Disney is launching a new global brand campaign inviting fans to revisit Pooh’s gentle wisdom and lighthearted worldview. The campaign brings audiences into the Hundred Acre Wood through new content, experiential events, creator-led storytelling, and reimagined “Pooh‑isms” — inspired by the gentle, reflective sayings and simple truths Pooh is known for — that spotlight Pooh’s timeless wisdom through a modern lens.

At the heart of the campaign is a new brand spot — available now on Disney’s YouTube channel — offering a warm, heartfelt tribute to the ways Pooh encourages fans to slow down, imagine, and savor life’s simple joys. 

Celebrating Pooh Through New Global Product Collaborations

All year, Disney is working with global leading brands to introduce new collections inspired by Pooh and his friends. Early launches include apparel, accessories, collectibles, home goods, and lifestyle products available at major retailers worldwide, with additional items rolling out throughout the year.

“Winnie the Pooh’s 100th anniversary gives us an incredible opportunity to celebrate the products that have shaped his legacy,” said Amanda Dhalluin, VP Global Brand Commercialization, Disney Consumer Products. “From classic storybook‑inspired collections to modern lifestyle lines, every item we create is designed to connect fans with Pooh Bear in a way that feels personal and joyfully nostalgic.”

Early Launch Highlights  

• Carter’s debuted baby apparel inspired by Winnie the Pooh and friends, bringing the cozy Hundred Acre Wood charm to little fans. 

• Disney Store launched several collections inspired by Winnie the Pooh, including mini and large versions of the Winnie the Pooh and Pals Disney Store Est. 1987 Canvas Tote.

• Funko expanded their popular Pop Nooks line with new Winnie the Pooh collectibles celebrating some of his most iconic moments from across the Hundred Acre Wood, with charming figures like Pop! Nooks Winnie the Pooh in Honey Tree, Pop! Pooh with Balloon, and Pop! Sleeping Winnie the Pooh 

• GAP introduced new baby apparel featuring timeless Pooh designs for seamless outfit pairing. 

• Old Navy rolled out playful adult female, kids, toddler, and baby apparel inspired by Winnie the Pooh and friends. 

• Primark dropped a 100th anniversary collection that channels the wonder of the Hundred Acre Wood and leans into cozy nostalgia. 

• Vera Bradley launched iconic bags and accessories adorned with whimsical Hundred Acre Wood patterns, giving fans an early way to join the centennial celebration.

New Drops Spanning More Categories This Month 

• Newly available, two LEGO Disney Winnie the Pooh sets celebrate the centennial: a detailed brick‑built Pooh with a honey pot with movable features, and the Piglet’s Birthday Fun set featuring a posable Piglet and a birthday cake that opens to reveal Pooh’s house and the Hundred Acre Wood. 

• The new Happy Haul line from Just Play, which debuted at New York Toy Fair and launches this month, brings Winnie the Pooh to life with the blind‑box Hunny Crew figures and Hunny Hugs Capsule Plush, inviting fans to unbox surprises and build their own collections. 

• Additional highlights this month include a robust assortment of baby apparel from Kyte Baby, new adult apparel and accessories from Cakeworthy, tech accessories from PopSockets, and statement bags from Loungefly. Yogi Tea joins the celebration as well with a comforting honey chamomile tea inspired by Pooh’s love of slowing down and savoring simple pleasures. 

• Beauty essentials, including new Winnie the Pooh collections from Wet Brush, Wet n Wild, and Mad Beauty, will follow these top product drops, bringing Pooh‑inspired charm to personal‑care routines around the world.  

Products Still to Come  

The celebration will continue throughout the year with additional Winnie the Pooh–inspired launches across retail and lifestyle categories worldwide. Upcoming releases include a new kids’ footwear collection from adidas this June, infused with whimsical design touches and everyday comfort, a new addition to the popular Disney Darlings line from JAKKS Pacific, as well as special collections from Squishmallows, Steiff, Little Words Project, and Pandora. 

New Publishing Launches Explore Pooh’s Themes of Kindness and Wonder

This year’s publishing lineup invites readers to connect with Pooh through books celebrating friendship, creativity, keepsakes, and reflective moments.

Upcoming titles include: 

• Winnie the Pooh: Wonders of the Hundred-Acre Wood Treasury from Random House Children’s Books 

• Disney: Winnie the Pooh: The Hundred-Acre Wood Cookbook from Insight Editions 

• The Winnie the Pooh Book: A Centenary Celebration from DK

And this fall, Disney will honor the anniversary of A.A. Milne’s original publication with the release of Winnie the Pooh: 100 Mindful Moments from Penguin Random House, arriving September 22. This newest addition to the Pooh literary tradition invites readers to explore the art of living simply, joyfully, and thoughtfully through Pooh’s perspective while finding balance in the everyday.

Inviting Fans Everywhere to “Live the Hunny Life”

The campaign will continue to roll out with regional experiential activations from April to May across LA, Japan, Singapore, London, Paris, and Poland, supporting new product collections from LEGO, Just Play and Funko, alongside new publishing titles.

As Disney celebrates 100 years of Winnie the Pooh, fans everywhere are invited to rediscover the timeless charm, imagination, and gentle wisdom that have defined Pooh for a century. Through storytelling, animation, publishing, and new product offerings, the Hundred Acre Wood will continue to inspire meaningful moments around the world in 2026, and beyond

Discover additional product news and centennial collections on the Disney Parks Blog. 

WEBTOON launches Mickey & Friends x Formula 1® comic series ahead of Australian Grand Prix 2026

Disney Store, Gentle Monster, a Trackside Range and More Global Licensees Deliver New Drops for 2026 Race Season

Ahead of the 2026 Formula 1® race season, Disney and Formula 1® are announcing the continuation of their multi-year “Fuel the Magic” collaboration, blending storytelling, racing culture and immersive fan experiences at Grand Prix weekends worldwide. Building on the momentum from the Las Vegas Grand Prix in November 2025, including Disney’s Mickey Mouse’s takeover of the Fountains of Bellagio, Disney and Formula 1® will kick-off this race seasons’ “Fuel the Magic” campaign with a racing-inspired content series at the Australian Grand Prix and then shift into high-gear at the Chinese Grand Prix, with more races planned throughout the 2026 race season. The campaign aims to bring fans original WEBTOON content, new branded products, and industry-leading entertainment designed to reflect the energy of each host city and the personalities of Disney’s Mickey & Friends.

“Formula 1 and Disney sparked a cultural moment felt worldwide—and it was only the beginning. This year is about turning that moment into a season‑long story,” said Tasia Filippatos, President of Disney Consumer Products. “A new digital chapter with WEBTOON gives fans a reason to stay connected between race weekends, brought to life through product and standout moments that feel authentic to each stop on the calendar.”

“The continuation of our ‘Fuel the Magic’ campaign with Disney is far greater than just a sports partnership, but one that leverages both Formula 1 and Disney’s power of immersive cultural storytelling and engaging entertainment,” said Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer of Formula 1. From unique product launches to fan experiences, digital content and WEBTOON integration, we’re offering even more unique ways that new and existing audiences can engage with our sport and experience race events like no other.”

WEBTOON Debuts Original Racing-Inspired Series, Starting at the Australian Grand Prix

Disney and WEBTOON have teamed up to create ‘Mickey X Formula 1® Racing to the Top!’ an original vertical comics series which will run exclusively on WEBTOON’s global platforms throughout the 2026 Formula 1® race season. The series will launch on March 6 during the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, with new episodes dropping tied to each race weekend throughout the season. Designed for a new

generation of fans, the series will introduce new characters, themes, and scenarios that blend the creativity and imagination of Mickey & Friends with the excitement and drama of Formula 1.

In this original series inspired by the high-octane thrills and teamwork of elite racing, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy come together to help support a racing team in crisis, demonstrating the power of friendship and collaboration to overcome adversity.

“Fuel the Magic” Products Expand to Select Formula 1 Races, Starting at the Chinese Grand Prix Races

Starting at the Chinese Grand Prix from 13-15 March, select Formula 1® races throughout the season will feature “Fuel the Magic” fanzone retail pop-ups with new branded merchandise inspired by the host city. Race-specific pieces and a core collection from Disney and Formula 1® will be available at the F1® Hub and Grand Prix Plaza, as well as online at F1.com and the Amazon F1 store (U.S. only).

Select race weekends will also include special Disney entertainment, creating memorable experiences, including seeing Disney’s Mickey & Friends sporting their Formula 1® fandom in a stylish new way.

First Look at Gentle Monster Assortment

Gentle Monster will introduce the 2026 Circuit Collection, a global eyewear collaboration with Disney and Formula 1® that reimagines the structural language of Formula 1 cars through a bold, fashion-forward lens. Featuring eight styles made with lightweight, durable materials, the collection includes three exclusive designs inspired by Disney’s Mickey & Friends and Formula 1®, blending racing performance with everyday wearability. The launch will also include pop-up experiences in Seoul and Shanghai, where a monumental Disney’s Mickey Mouse sculpture stands alongside an Formula 1® car, bringing the energy of “Fuel the Magic” to life.

More Product Collaborations to Launch Across Fashion, Accessories, and Collectibles

Following the debut of the first Disney x Formula 1® collection in Las Vegas last year, Disney Store will launch additional releases, starting with a Mickey Mouse plush in a Formula 1 uniform, available exclusively in Australia just in time for the Australian Grand Prix, with a global roll-out planned later this year. New collaborations will also launch with Gentle Monster and Uniqlo, alongside an expanded Disney x Formula 1 core collection available online. The assortment will span apparel, accessories, collectibles, and plush, each reflecting the intersection of racing culture and Mickey & Friends. Stay tuned for product reveals on Disney Style.

Stay Tuned for More on Social

The “Fuel the Magic” campaign reflects the shared vision of Disney and Formula 1® to unite racing, entertainment, and fashion through a fan-first approach that celebrates the sport’s cultural energy. This industry-leading collaboration delivers original content and digital experiences to connect fans around

the world to the excitement of Grand Prix weekends. For the latest updates, follow @mickeymouse and @f1 on social media and join the conversation using #FuelTheMagic.

This month, Disney shines as the visionary behind a collaboration bringing together fashion, artistry, and play. Teaming up with legendary doll-makers Mattel and boundary-pushing Parisian designers Viktor&Rolf, Disney unveils a first-of-its-kind couture collector doll: Cinderella, the beloved Disney fairytale character, reimagined into a stunning couture collectible.

With the Viktor&Rolf x Disney Collector Cinderella Doll, three creative powerhouses collide — each driven by a passion for reinvention and bold storytelling. Disney, whose stories have inspired audiences for generations, orchestrates this cross-industry collaboration, ensuring that every detail feels classic, surprising, and full of heart.

“Our bold collaborations with leading brands continue to push the boundaries of Disney’s storytelling in fresh, culturally relevant ways,” Paul Gitter, EVP of Global Brand Commercialization, Disney Consumer Products, said. “This unique partnership with Viktor&Rolf and Mattel fuses contemporary fashion, art, and nostalgia to create an elevated, one-of-a-kind collectible — reimagining the essence of Disney Princesses through a modern, fashion-forward lens.”

Three Brands, One Vision: Reimagining Cinderella for Today’s Collector

Debuting at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs during Paris Fashion Week, this striking collectible is far more than a traditional doll — it’s a step forward in design, rooted in the surreal elegance of Viktor&Rolf’s Spring/Summer 2019 Haute Couture “Fashion Statements” collection. The result is an evocative reimagining of a Cinderella doll: sculptural, fashion-driven, and accessorized for the twenty-first century with Viktor&Rolf’s signature theatricality, Mattel’s craftsmanship, and Disney’s inimitable storytelling magic.

This elevated vision marks the finale of Cinderella’s 75th anniversary celebrations, blending nostalgia with a daring, modern perspective. Glass slippers are paired with a smartphone frozen at 11:59 p.m., casting Cinderella as a fearless, fashion-forward muse who writes her own story.

“We have a longstanding fascination with dolls,” Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren, said “Already as children, dolls functioned as ersatz runway fashion models that allowed us to dream and project our fashion fantasies into the world. A lot of our interest in dolls is connected with our childlike attraction to the mystery and glamour of fashion itself. This dreamy sense of wonder has never quite left us.”

Disney Princess: Beyond the Toy Aisle

As consumer tastes evolve, so does Disney’s Princess brand. Princess thrives beyond the toy aisle in beauty, fine jewelry, luxury fashion, and collectible art – inviting an ever-wider audience and reinforcing Disney’s place at the cultural forefront. These creative expansions reflect a strategy: turning beloved stories into dynamic, premium experiences that extend beyond theatrical releases and reach new generations of fans.

The debut of this couture Cinderella doll builds on a wave of recent successes: Moana 2’s $1B global box office, a Bath & Body Works collaboration that generated overwhelming consumer excitement and engagement in-store and on social, and an upcoming yearlong Pandora collaboration highlighted by lab-grown diamonds. Each collaboration demonstrates how Disney storytelling can inspire art, drive cultural moments, and shape premium market trends, smoothing seasonality and deepening Princess’s cultural resonance far beyond the screen.

The Inspiration Behind the Collaboration

This collector doll is a testament to Disney’s leadership as a creative bridge — uniting Viktor&Rolf’s aspirational design, Mattel’s category expertise, and Disney’s time-tested narratives. The tri-lab approach fuels a modern Princess vision: bold, imaginative, and authentic.

This launch not only celebrates Cinderella’s legacy but also invites collectors of all ages to experience Disney Princess storytelling through a new lens.

Limited quantities are available for pre-sale through MattelCreations.com and Viktor&Rolf’s website starting January 20, 2026, with shipments beginning in early spring.

Fans and collectors can also go behind the scenes with Disney Princess: Create Your World – Mattel and Viktor & Rolf, a thirty-minute documentary premiering March 24 on Hulu and ABC Owned Television Stations’ digital platforms. This documentary offers a rare glimpse inside the creative process that brought this iconic collaboration to life.

Where to Experience the Collaboration

Debut: January 21, 2026, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, during Paris Fashion Week

Pre-sale: MattelCreations.com and Viktor-rolf.com, January 20, 2026

Documentary: Disney Princess: Create Your World – Mattel and Viktor & Rolf streaming March 24, 2026

Through this collaboration, Disney reaffirms its place at the heart of creativity — making dreams tangible, collectible, and truly unforgettable.

From theme‑park-scale storytelling realms developed with Haddy to playful miniature universes crafted with the LEGO Group, Disney showcases innovation at every scale.

For a century, The Walt Disney Company has built a business model around one idea: turning imagined worlds into real experiences across every part of the company. From early Mickey Mouse merchandise to the debut of Disneyland in 1955, the company has continuously pushed storytelling beyond the screen.

At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Disney reaffirmed its leadership in immersive innovation, showcasing how storied brands like the LEGO Group and emerging collaborators like Haddy help fuel its creative ecosystem, highlighting how Disney creates worlds at every scale, from the epic to the delightfully small.

LEGO® Smart Play: Star Wars Comes Alive

Fans discover Disney in countless ways, and for many, that journey begins with toys, books, apparel — products that offer a first doorway into Disney’s worlds.

The LEGO Group, Lucasfilm and Disney Consumer Products have a decades-long relationship that’s delivered the adventure of the Star Wars galaxy to fans over 25 years. So, when the LEGO Group unveiled its most significant innovation since the minifigure at CES last week — LEGO SMART PLAY — it only made sense for Star Wars to be the inaugural partner launching this incredible innovation in play.

“Our teams work hand-in-hand with best-in-class licensees to bring technology and innovation to products that continue our storytelling in new and unexpected ways,” said Paul Gitter, Executive Vice President of Global Brand Commercialization at Disney Consumer Products. “This milestone in our long-time collaboration with the LEGO Group adds a new dimension to this legacy, continuing to help fans express their creativity and imagination by extending the Star Wars story through play.”

Julia Goldin, Chief Product & Marketing Officer at the LEGO Group, echoed that sentiment, saying, “With LEGO Smart Play, legendary stories and characters of the Star Wars galaxy will come to life like never before.”

The LEGO Group’s new SMART system boasts more than 20 patented world-firsts in its technology. The system includes SMART bricks, SMART tags and SMART minifigures allowing fans to build Star Wars creations that interact and respond to their actions in real-time. The product line also features sensors, wireless charging, and audio integration, representing a distinctive breakthrough in blending physical and digital play. On March 1, LEGO Star Wars SMART PLAY will debut with three all-in-one sets inspired by the original trilogy of films.

With the combination of the LEGO Group’s new innovative system and Lucasfilm’s rich storytelling, fans will have the tools they need to unlock endless creativity and tell their own Star Wars stories at home like never before.

Accelerating Innovation with Haddy

Also at CES, Disney spotlighted its growing relationship with Haddy, an AI-driven 3D printing pioneer and member of the Disney Accelerator class of 2025. Haddy’s MicroFactory enables theme-park-scale fabrication, helping Imagineers iterate faster and bring ideas to life more efficiently.

“In the last three years, Haddy has been on a steady march to create the platform, the MicroFactory, which can print the world,” John B. Rogers, Haddy Founder & CEO, explained. “We have now arrived.”

Case in point: Walt Disney Imagineering recently worked with Haddy to 3D print a new outrigger canoe for the Jungle Cruise at Disneyland park, marking the first time a prop was permanently 3D printed for a Disney park attraction. Using a photo of the original 1960s boat, the team ensured authenticity while leveraging advanced fabrication techniques.

Bonnie Rosen, General Manager of Disney Accelerator, emphasized the impact, noting how, “Haddy’s innovative fabrication approach gives Disney creators a faster, more flexible method for building imaginative new worlds from the ground up.”

Haddy’s Microfactory is harboring the power of technology to enhance and empower human creativity to create new worlds, with the outrigger canoe being the first test case for potential future uses throughout Disney’s live experiences.

“Haddy’s 3D printing factory pairs advanced manufacturing methods with bespoke human-powered design, helping us build, reconfigure, and reuse materials so that ideas can be refined and brought to life again and again,” Rosen added.

This collaboration illustrates how Disney leverages robotics, advanced materials, and additive manufacturing to redefine immersive experiences.

The Disney Story Engine In Motion

From LEGO Smart Play to Haddy’s fabrication breakthroughs, Disney is uniting storytelling and technology to deliver world‑building experiences at every scale — from miniature interactive play to full‑size immersive environments.

Across the company, this creative momentum moves seamlessly from one team to the next.

Disney Consumer Products invites fans to build their own worlds at home, the Disney Accelerator supports emerging innovators, Walt Disney Imagineering brings imaginative and technical expertise to new frontiers, and iconic franchises like Star Wars help anchor it all.

Together, these collaborations show how Disney meets fans wherever they are — in parks, in products, and in the stories they create themselves — ensuring that the magic of world‑building keeps growing, evolving, and inspiring the next generation.

With A Most Magical Christmas, Disney Consumer Products EMEA and Selfridges reimagined classic Disney storytelling for today’s audiences — spanning show-stopping windows, exclusive product collaborations, and innovative experiential moments across the UK.

We spoke with Claire Terry, SVP, Disney Consumer Products EMEA, about the creative vision behind the campaign, the power of Disney’s brand heritage, and what’s next for consumer products in the region.

How did A Most Magical Christmas with Selfridges come together? Why was Selfridges the perfect brand to help reimagine classic Disney storytelling? 

At Disney Consumer Products EMEA we are continually looking to raise the bar, and Selfridges is one of the most iconic department stores in the world. It is renowned for being a global fashion destination beloved by Gen Z, so it was an ideal collaborator.

We began exploring the opportunity in 2023, originally with the concept of bringing Disney storytelling through a takeover of the store windows, that evolved into the 360-campaign we have now, A Most Magical Christmas — one of the most ambitious and aspirational campaigns we have ever done.

It features an 11-metre Disney castle façade at Selfridges’ Oxford Street flagship to 30 windows inspired by Disney classics across the UK, bespoke Disney iterations of the iconic shopping bags, and more than 80 brand collaborations across multiple categories. It was driven by Disney Consumer Products and brought together teams across the entire enterprise, including Disney Theatrical Group and Disney Parks, Walt Disney Imagineering, Studios, and Disney+.

This partnership also builds on a rich heritage as Disney and Selfridges have collaborated in the past — dating back to the 1950s through the 1970s, when beloved characters including Disney’s Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, Mickey Mouse, and Donald Duck appeared at the store and even on the façade.

What makes the holiday collaboration with Selfridges unique, and how does it reflect Disney’s approach to creating magical experiences for consumers during the holiday season? 

Millions of people visit Selfridges every year, and this holiday season A Most Magical Christmas is the iconic retailer’s first collaborative Christmas campaign and the largest façade its Oxford Street flagship has hosted in over 50 years.

The Disney magic starts outside with a dazzling and quite literally traffic-stopping light and music show, then flows through a number of dazzling windows, each telling a classic Disney story with incredible craftsmanship, including an interactive Tinker Bell display powered by Walt Disney Imagineering.

Inside, guests discover Disney on every floor, with over 80 brand collaborations and exclusive plush inspired by Selfridges’ iconic yellow. In addition, we had a pop-up Disney Store, which has been a huge hit with fans, including selling product usually uniquely found at Parks.

There have even been special moments from Disney Theatrical Group like Genie from Aladdin making a surprise appearance, a Disney Classics afternoon tea, and curated film screenings.

It’s a fully immersive experience that brings Disney storytelling to life for fans of all ages and has driven incredible footfall and sales to the store.

How does Disney balance innovation with maintaining its iconic brand identity when developing new products and collaborations? Can you share any examples of how this approach has resonated with consumers in EMEA? 

At Disney Consumer Products EMEA, we’re at the cornerstone of Disney storytelling and reimagining what that means for today’s consumer and how we stay relevant for the next 100 years. Our product collaborations keep the brand integrity while surprising and delighting fans — as well as reaching new audiences — with fashion-forward, culturally relevant product moments.

We ensure Disney’s magic resonates across a breadth of lifestyle touchpoints that connect with all generations by collaborating with leading designers across fashion, home, beauty, food & beverage, and more.

We worked with designers such as Harry Lambert, Ahluwalia and Cole Buxton, giving each the freedom to create collections that felt personal and authentic to their brand. This creative approach unlocked products across 20+ Disney franchises, engaging Gen Z consumers who tell us that they value individuality and self-expression.

Why do leading retailers and brands consistently seek collaborations with Disney? What elements of Disney’s storytelling and brand heritage make these partnerships so compelling? 

Disney’s brand heritage and emotional connection with consumers is a unique strength. At a time when people crave comfort, escapism, and familiarity, our storytelling offers exactly that, whilst remaining relevant across generations. A Most Magical Christmas, inspired by the iconic Disney adage, ‘you’re never too old to be young,’ is a perfect example as it taps into nostalgia and iconic characters, but brings them to life in fresh, innovative ways that resonate with today’s audiences. The balance of timeless magic, emotional connection and modern creativity is what makes Disney such a compelling partner that attracts families and fans of all generations.

How is Disney Consumer Products crafting an innovative strategy to meet consumer trends where they are across EMEA? 

Experiential retail is a key way through which we balance innovation with heritage. Consumers today expect more than transaction, seeking immersive experiences that deepen their connection with a brand. With Selfridges, we delivered this on a scale that only Disney can do, by blending cutting-edge technology, theatrical performances, and curated retail moments all whilst staying true to our storytelling roots. From an interactive window featuring Tinker Bell to exclusive product collaborations inspired by classic Disney characters, the campaign honours Disney’s legacy whilst introducing fresh and unexpected ways to engage fans and shoppers alike.

We’ve been blown away by the response and level of engagement we’ve seen through organic social content, engagement, footfall and sales across the region and beyond. The power of Disney is clear throughout this campaign; the combined strength of our ecosystem creates a truly authentic emotional connection with all consumers and the industry. A Most Magical Christmas is truly an example of us activating locally but influencing globally.

What does the future hold for Disney Consumer Products in EMEA over the next few years? 

A Most Magical Christmas has shown what is within the art of the possible. We set out to do something extraordinary, and I am so proud of what our teams have achieved. It sets the bar for how we can connect with consumers across multiple touchpoints, from the largest façade to the smallest pin. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, I’m excited about our partnership with Formula 1, and how we can bring together Mickey & Friends with this phenomenally successful sport and create more products and experiences that meet our target audiences where they are.

Beyond that, we have so much more in the pipeline that will show Disney in new and unexpected ways. We have real momentum as a business and are planning even more opportunities to create happiness every day.

Disney and Formula 1’s “Fuel the Magic” Campaign will Deliver Unforgettable Fan Experiences, Exclusive Content and Elevated Products

Disney and Formula 1® announced today their highly anticipated collaboration will kick off at the Las Vegas Grand Prix this November. As revealed in May, this exciting global relationship will “fuel the magic” for fans by blending world-class sports with Disney’s iconic storytelling and an exclusive Formula 1 merchandise line.

A Spectacular Kickoff at the Las Vegas Grand Prix

As racing super fans, Disney’s Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto will make memorable appearances at the heart of the high-speed action.

• For the first time ever, maestro Mickey Mouse will take the stage in front of the Fountains of Bellagio for a one-of-a-kind performance from Disney Live Entertainment. The Mickey & Friends-inspired moment will captivate fans with an immersive show featuring enchanting music and thrilling pyrotechnics.
• To kick off race day festivities — and in celebration of 70 years of happiness — the Disneyland Band will bring its timeless magic to the grid with a special performance of the national anthem.
• Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will also bring Disney magic to a special community day aimed at inspiring local kids in Las Vegas.
• Ahead of the qualifying race, Formula 1 has invited Mickey & Friends to join a special pitlane walk and is offering select main grandstand ticket holders the chance to see the teams at work. For more information, please visit f1lasvegasgp.com.

“The Disney brand represents the power of storytelling, creativity and connection—values that resonate deeply with fans and partners alike worldwide,” said Tasia Filippatos, President of Disney Consumer Products. “We are thrilled to be uniting sports, pop culture and entertainment in a way that delivers an unforgettable experience for both Mickey and Friends and F1 fans globally.”

“Our collaboration with Disney builds on a shared passion for storytelling, innovation and creating memorable moments,” said Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer of Formula 1 and President and CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc. “As we look ahead to the global Disney’s Mickey & Friends and Formula 1® launch in 2026, the Fuel the Magic program will bring two iconic brands together to give fans of all ages a race weekend filled with creativity, entertainment and a touch of magic.”

The Disney and Formula 1 Collection Debuts in November

In early November, the Disney x Formula 1 merchandise line will debut, seamlessly blending the fun of Mickey & Friends with the sleek and sporty style of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The elevated capsule collection will be available to shop on-site beginning Nov. 8 at the F1® Las Vegas Hub Presented by American Express inside the Venetian Resort Las Vegas, with select items available on DisneyStore.com in North America. Fans should stay tuned for the collection reveal and details coming soon.

A New Chapter in Entertainment and Sports

Whether attending the Las Vegas Grand Prix in person or tuning in remotely, fans will experience the thrill of Formula 1 through Disney’s signature creativity, innovation and magic. From exclusive behind-the-scenes content to imaginative storytelling, this collaboration will introduce digital experiences designed to connect fans around the world to the excitement of race weekends.

On race day, Nov. 22, 2025, fans in the United States can join the celebration by watching on ESPN or the ESPN App — bringing the Las Vegas Grand Prix straight to their screens. Fans across the globe can watch the Las Vegas Grand Prix via their local official F1 broadcaster.

More High-Speed Magic to Come

The “Fuel the Magic” campaign will continue through the 2026 and 2027 Formula 1 seasons, designed to ignite fans’ passion both trackside and at home.

For more information about Disney and Formula 1’s collaboration, follow @mickeymouse and @f1 on social media and track the conversation with #FuelTheMagic across all the social platforms.

This week, Disney Publishing celebrated the 20th anniversary of Percy Jackson and the Olympians — an epic young adult saga that follows the adventures of Percy, a young demigod in the present day who discovers he is the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.

The franchise that has been both a critical and commercial success since its debut. The first book in the series, The Lightning Thief, was named a Best Book for Young Adults by the American Library Association in 2006. It launched a seven-book saga that has remained on The New York Times bestseller list for over 780 weeks and inspired two follow-up series.

The franchise has also expanded beyond the page. A hit musical adaptation premiered on Broadway in 2019, and the Disney+ series Percy Jackson and the Olympians has earned eight Children’s and Family Emmy® Awards. The show returns for its second season on December 10.

Rick Riordan — author of the book series and co-creator and executive producer of the Disney+ adaptation — recently sat down to discuss the franchise’s enduring appeal across generations, his long-standing partnership with Disney Publishing, and what’s next for fans in both print and on screen.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians has become a multi-platform franchise over the past two decades. It spans seven core novels, feature films, a Broadway musical, and a Disney+ series. What do you think has driven the enduring appeal and adaptability of the story across formats and generations?

I think at its core, it’s because Greek mythology is so universal and digs into so many themes that are inherently human: love, family, anger, revenge, loyalty. What do these things mean? The Greek myths are all about that and being able to explore that in the 21st century with modern day demigods is an idea that is much bigger than me and has really lit the imagination of all the readers out there.

You’ve maintained a long-standing relationship with Disney Publishing, not just from Percy Jackson. What makes Disney such an appealing partner for you?

It’s been really great because over the years with Disney Hyperion as my partner for most of that time, I’ve had all the advantages of a small boutique publishing house with lots of personal attention and lots of great relationships, with the muscle of the Disney Corporation. So it’s kind of been a “best of both worlds” situation.

For parents who want to encourage their children to get into reading, why are your books — and the books that are published alongside you by Disney — a great place to start?

I’m glad that they do work for many kids, and I hope that’s because of my experience in the past as a teacher, that I spent a lot of time in the classroom telling stories, teaching mythology, and trying to make the old stuff relevant to new generations, hopefully with a little sense of humor in there. So that’s my hope and that’s, I think, why they work for kids.

Can you talk more about your next book being published by Disney, The Court of the Dead?

It’s coauthored with Marc Oshiro, and is a follow up on the book we did called The Sun and the Star. It is The Court of the Dead, and it’s about Nico di Angelo, who is a character from Percy Jackson’s world, but is such a fan favorite as the son of Hades and sort of this goth figure, and the readers have loved that he now has his own books going. And it’s been really fun to explore his point of view because it’s so different from Percy’s.

Season 2 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians is coming to Disney+ in December. What are you most looking forward to fans experiencing?

I am so excited that it’s finally coming out and that we can share it with people because I’ve been reading the scripts and looking at dailies and looking at cuts for so long that it seems incredible we’re finally almost here. The thing I’m looking forward to most is some of the artwork that you’re going to see, bringing the Sea of Monsters as a setting alive. Scylla and Charybdis — the monsters — the ironclad ship that they sail into the sea. Incredible stuff, very cinematic.

Today, Good Morning America revealed a wave of new products inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ highly anticipated theatrical sequel, Moana 2, before it sails into theaters on November 27, 2024.

Adding to the lineup of global products announced previously, the national morning show exclusively shared a first look at new pieces from DisneyStore.com, available to shop starting today, as well as a sneak peek of new items from Posh Peanut, coming to the brand’s site on November 14. The segment also featured previously announced products such as the Moana Fashion Doll and Moana’s Adventure Canoe playset from Mattel, Maui’s Magical Fishhook from Jakks Pacific, Moana’s Adventure Canoe building toy set from the LEGO Group, Disney Moana Doll by American Girl, Moana 2 Passion Fruit Sour Gummy Stars by Better Sour and Moana 2 Pure Coconut Water by 100 Coconuts.

“Moana’s journey in this new adventure is bigger, bolder and filled with new characters and surprises,” Meagan Sanders, vice president franchise development, Disney Consumer Products, said. “Our latest collection of global products from world-renowned licensees not only bring the immersive storytelling of Moana 2 to life, but also connect consumers of all ages to the beloved settings and characters we loved from these films.”

New Products Making a Splash Today

• Launching today on DisneyStore.com, the Moana 2 collection includes new adult and youth apparel, accessories, and dolls. This morning, Good Morning America revealed two new youth apparel items, including the Moana 2 Spirit Jersey and Zip Hoodie for Girls.

• Posh Peanut will debut new apparel styles for both kids and adults, with the brand’s iconic matching sets coming in multiple patterns. Standouts on Good Morning America included the Moana-inspired twirl dress, as well as multiple mini backpack designs.

• Fans were also able to get a glimpse of the new Moana’s Adventure Canoe from the LEGO Group. News of the set was shared in late September, and Good Morning America was the first to share a look at the fully built set, which will be available for pre-sale later this November.

• Also making its broadcast debut was the new Moana doll by American Girl. Available for pre-sale starting October 29, the doll is already a hit with fans as the newest addition to the expanding American Girl Disney Princess doll line up.

Recently Released Products Already Making Waves

• These exciting collaborations join the growing list of Moana 2-inspired products that began making waves this September, including new dolls, playsets, roleplay, and collectibles from global licensees Mattel, Jakks Pacific, Disguise, and Funko as well as publishing titles from Chronicle Books and Random House, home décor from Jay Franco, and food and beverage offerings from Better Sour and 100 Coconuts.

Additional Products on the Horizon

• Other products launching this year include a new Moana 2-inspired mini backpack from Loungefly, which is available for pre-order now, as well as a new mini-plush capsule collection from Just Play, tech accessories from PopSockets, jewelry from RockLove, and apparel from BoxLunch, Hot Topic, Cakeworthy and Monica + Andy.

• Fans can expect even more Moana 2 merchandise to continue rolling out with exciting new collaborations making a splash in 2025. Get ready to set sail for an all-new voyage as Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana 2 premieres in theaters November 27.

The Walt Disney Company has a rich legacy of stories and characters that fans of all ages can enjoy. Disney Consumer Products (DCP) harnesses that legacy to deliver collaborations with dynamic, modern brands that are making an impact on the consumer landscape and leading the charge within fashion, beauty, and lifestyle.

“Only Disney can create collaborations that connect with audiences worldwide, showcasing the power of our brand, characters, and storytelling,” Tasia Filippatos, president of DCP, explained. “These inspire artists globally and lead to innovative partnerships that offer something unexpected for Disney fans, as well as reaching new audiences and touching hearts everywhere.”

Here’s how Disney is leveraging its world-class intellectual property to create innovative and high impact collections with fashion brands such as Pleasing, Coperni, Gap, and others.

Culture-Driving Collaborations

The Disney x Coperni Spring Summer ’25 collection was unveiled in spectacular style at Disneyland Paris on Tuesday night, with a runway fashion show at Sleeping Beauty Castle that closed out Paris Fashion Week.

The French fashion house, known for its innovative, techno-chic designs, revealed an apparel and accessory collection inspired by Disney Princesses, Disney Villains, and Mickey Mouse, that was livestreamed for audiences around the world. The collection will debut at retailers globally this spring.

Coperni co-founders Arnaud Vaillant (CEO) and Creative Director Sébastien Meyer shared, “We grew up with Disney as an important part of our childhood. For many French children, particularly those from the provinces, the first family visit to the big city Paris meant a trip to Disneyland. Disney’s fairytales and characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Ariel from The Little Mermaid, Snow White, Cinderella, and Maleficent were our guides through the complex landscape of human emotions — friendship, love, fear, courage, transformation.”

Disney also launched its first collaboration with Harry Styles’ Pleasing brand, in celebration of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ animated classic Fantasia.

The products, which were inspired by the original art and music of the film, span apparel, accessories, and beauty. Pleasing’s designers were given access to Disney Animation archives to fuel the imagination and collaboration.

To mark the launch, an original animation merging product, characters, and music was created, along with pop-up retail experiences at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World and Houston Galleria, plus events at Disney Stores in London and New York. The collection is available on Pleasing.com, DisneyStore.com, and DisneyStore.co.uk starting October 4.

These two high-profile launches follow the stunning summer reveal of Disney and Balmain’s collaboration celebrating 30 years of The Lion King, and the upcoming theatrical release of Mufasa: The Lion King. This extensive collection for men and women was designed by Balmain creative director Olivier Rousteing, who found the project especially personal as he was deeply moved by The Lion King as a child.

“Working on this collaboration was a dream come true,” Rousteing shared. “I was only 9 years old when The Lion King was first released, but still today, almost three decades later, I only need to close my eyes to replay that incredible mix of music, images, and emotions. The lessons that I absorbed, as I sat, absolutely transfixed by what was happening on the giant screen in front of me, have remained with me for my entire life.”

Campaigns as Creative as the Products

Each collaboration is brought to market with campaigns that uniquely match the creativity and artistry of the product lines. The beauty of the Disney x Balmain: The Lion King collection was captured through a short film shot in the stunning landscapes of South Africa by director Femi Oladigbolu.

The stunning fashion range was given its first public outing at a Lion King in concert event at London’s Royal Albert Hall, where ABC captured a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the collection and short film for an upcoming On the Red Carpet Storytellers Spotlight.

When fashion brand Kith marked Marvel’s 85th anniversary with its extensive Super Villains collection of apparel, accessories, footwear, and collectibles, it also created a featuring Kith founder Ronnie Fieg that was hugely popular with fans. The range reimagined iconic Marvel villains through the Kith lens and drove unprecedented demand.

Disney is also expanding its partnership with Gap, moving into new, limited-edition collaborations that elevate classic Gap products with fashion-forward designs featuring Disney characters.

The first release is a Mickey & Friends collegiate collection inspired by ’90s style. To create buzz and reach young consumers, Disney brought Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse — as well as the complete range — to the University of Alabama vs. University of Georgia game that aired September 28 on ABC.

To kick off the ESPN College GameDay collaboration, DCP put together a “Get Ready with Mickey & Friends” immersive creator pop-up that featured the Gap x Disney collection, glamour sessions with professional makeup artists, and accessorizing with custom Stoney Clover Lane, Kendra Scott, and Little Words Project pieces.

This first activation of its kind built hype for the big game, resulted in extensive social and broadcast coverage, and delivered Disney Parks’ No. 1 story and content engagement of the week.