Fans are at loggerheads over Disney World’s big change to one of its classic attractions.
After 50 years, beloved country Bear Jamboree character Liver Lips McGrowl has been retired due to concerns that the name would be interpreted as discriminatory and derogatory. The choice marks a turning point in the attraction’s history, as it has been a mainstay at the Magic Kingdom since its debut in 1971.
Liver Lips McGrowl’s Demise
Country Bear Jamboree, known for its cute and funny animatronic bears, has changed dramatically. The attraction closed in January 2024 for renovations that resulted in the removal of Liver Lips McGrowl and other features, according to a statement posted on Inside The Magic. The term “liver lips” is outdated and offensive because it is associated with excessive alcohol consumption and subsequent liver damage. Disney’s choice to remove the character is indicative of its commitment to fostering an environment where visitors are treated with more respect.
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Introducing Romeo McGrowl.
Romeo McGrowl, a new character from Disney, replaced Liver Lips McGrowl. While the character’s appearance hasn’t changed much, the name change represents Disney’s commitment to diversity.
The updated Country Bear Jamboree strives to maintain its nostalgic appeal while meeting modern standards and ideals. This modification is part of a larger effort by Disney to identify and fix outdated or culturally offensive aspects of its attractions.
Developing inclusiveness
This isn’t the only time Disney has changed the Country Bear Jamboree. Similar efforts have been undertaken by the company in recent years, such as the re-evaluation of Jungle Tours and Splash Mountain, to remove harmful and stereotypical depictions.
These adjustments reflect Disney’s growing recognition of the need to adapt its products to meet contemporary societal norms. With this, Disney hopes to make the park more welcoming and inclusive for all guests.
Farewell to a classic from the world of Disney
Liver Lips McGrowl’s removal from Disney World’s Country Bear Jamboree after 50 years marks a significant shift in how the park addresses cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. While the decision drew mixed reactions from fans, it highlights Disney’s evolving approach to ensuring respect and being in line with modern values. The name change from Liver Lips McGrowl to Romeo McGrowl reflects a broader trend within the company to update or reimagine older features of the park that might be considered outdated or offensive by today’s standards.
The change is part of a larger movement within Disney to promote inclusivity, as seen in recent updates to other classic attractions such as Jungle Cruise and Splash Mountain. These changes demonstrate Disney’s commitment to adapting its offerings to create a more welcoming environment for all visitors while maintaining the nostalgic charm that has endeared its parks to millions of people.
For some fans, the changes may seem like a loss of tradition, but for others, they represent a necessary step towards making the park more respectful and considerate of different points of view.
As Disney continues to find a balance between preserving its legacy and keeping up with current societal expectations, it will be interesting to see how future changes play out. While some may mourn the loss of a beloved character, others will likely appreciate the company’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness, ensuring that Disney World remains a place where all guests can feel comfortable and respected.