Disney’s Jungle Cruise Getting Makeover to Remove Racist Stereotypes

The Jungle Cruise is getting a makeover at Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, finally removing the racist and outdated stereotypical imagery at one of the oldest and most beloved attractions at the parks.

The changes “reflect our commitment to creating unparalleled experiences that reflect, not only the best in storytelling but also the values and rich diversity of our world,” Disney Executive Chairman Robert Iger said in a tweet.

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The ride, which opened at Disneyland in 1955, depicts a river cruise in Africa, where visitors encounter tigers, elephants, hippos and snakes while avoiding waterfalls as they’re subjected to a barrage of corny jokes. At issue is a stretch during which passengers happen upon a group of natives depicted as savages, dressed in tribal garments, wielding spears and described by the skipper as “headhunters.” {snip}

In the redesigned attraction, riders will instead cruise past a sunken old boat taken over by chimps and other new scenes. A memorable bit where an angry rhino chases a group of men up a tree will remain, but the audio-animatronic figures will be more diverse.

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