Disney’s Popularity Takes a Hit Since 2020
The Walt Disney Company is facing its toughest popularity ratings since 2020, based on a recent analysis of internet search data.
Google Trends reveals the frequency of searches related to Disney’s theme parks. Most notably, more than half of its attractions show a decline in online interest this year compared to prior years.
This trend, as noted by Forbes, highlights a crucial point: while a dip in searches doesn’t always equate to fewer visitors, it does suggest a waning interest in the parks. Since 2020, the volume of searches for Disney parks has decreased significantly in some areas and only marginally in others, with a few parks even experiencing a rise in queries.
For instance, searches for Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Orlando have plummeted by 21% since 2020. Likewise, queries for “Walt Disney World” saw an additional drop of 26%.
Disneyland in Anaheim has also been affected, with a 26% decrease in search interest. Notably, Disney’s Animal Kingdom experienced the steepest fall, with searches plunging by a staggering 51%. Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which features a Star Wars attraction, reported a 43% decline in searches since 2020.
On a slightly more positive note, some parks faced only a minor decrease. Tokyo Disneyland’s popularity slipped by just 2%, while Disney’s Epcot in Florida was down by 3%. Disneyland Park in Paris saw an 8% drop, but interestingly, searches for Disneyland Paris itself saw an increase of 8%.
Conversely, a few Disney parks did see an uptick. Hong Kong Disneyland had the most significant increase, with searches up by 38%. Shanghai Disneyland enjoyed a boost of 29%, and DisneySea in Tokyo experienced a 6% rise, while Disney California Adventure Park grew by 4%.
This apparent decline in popularity corresponds with a drop in park attendance. Recent reports indicated that Walt Disney World in Orlando experienced its lowest attendance figures for September since the pandemic.
Identifying the exact reasons behind Disney’s diminishing popularity is tricky, but the company, under Josh D’Amaro’s management since 2020, has made various changes aimed at updating its brand.
There have been notable shifts in language and themes at the parks. For example, the removal of the phrase “ladies and gentlemen” was made to enhance inclusivity. Additionally, one attraction faced criticism for featuring a male performer in a dress for a children’s activity.
Moreover, Disney has invested substantial funds in reworking classic attractions like Splash Mountain and Jungle Cruise after facing allegations of racial insensitivity.
In its pursuit of inclusivity, the company has worked to promote various progressive agendas across its entertainment offerings, including its films, television shows, and theme parks.
