Disney Cancels Character After 50 Years

Disney World’s “Country Bear Jamboree” first opened in 1971 and was designed by Walt Disney shortly before his death in 1966, making it one of the park’s original attractions.

The attraction features animatronic bears that perform Disney songs in country styles. One such bear, Liver Lips McGrowl, will no longer be sharing the stage with the other members due to the controversy surrounding his name.

The term “liver lips” is considered derogatory and is associated with excessive alcohol consumption to the point of liver damage. The term is also considered a racial slur used against Black Americans.

In an effort to make the attraction more inclusive for all park guests, Disney decided to fully ax the character. Guests who visit “Country Bear Jamboree” will now be introduced to the new band member, Romeo McGrowl, who dons a blue jumpsuit and has luscious blonde hair.

“Country Bear Jamboree” is not the only park attraction that has gotten an update from Disney. Just recently, Disneyland and Disney World’s ‘Splash Mountain,’ based on the 1946 movie Song of the South, had a complete overhaul.

Previously based on a movie where the former slave, Uncle Remus, recounts African folk tales, the new ride revolves around the 2009 film The Princess and the Frog.

While most welcome the progressive steps Disney is taking, some groups of devoted fans have taken personal offense to the changes. When “Splash Mountain” finally closed for its overhaul, a petition to reverse the decision received over 100,000 signatures.

Guests also began creating makeshift memorials outside of the entrance as well as scooping water from the ride into jars to take home.

It’s unclear why so many hold such a deep attachment to these problematic attractions; maybe nostalgia, maybe stubbornness. Making a space feel safe and inclusive for all is a goal we should not be so up in arms about. Though there is valid criticism in saying this is all just a big PR move by Disney, is that really so bad?

Disney will soon also be overhauling the “Jungle Cruise” due to its depiction of Indigenous people with its animatronic “savages.” At Disney World, the ride will officially close on August 26, and hopes to reopen, sans racist animatronics, sometime in September. No big thematic changes are expected for the ride, just some scene updates and maintenance.

For those interested in exactly what future rides Disney is planning to renovate, a refurbishment calendar is posted on their website. While change can be hard for some, we welcome Disney’s efforts to make their parks more inclusive and hope that those upset dedicated fans will start feeling the same way soon.

For Florida readers with annual Disney World passes, we hope you go check out the new “Country Bear Jamboree” show and tell us what you think about its newest member, Romeo McGrowl.