The actress announces a new Cruella-themed ride for the upcoming Villains Land at Magic Kingdom
Category: Arts & Culture
Glenn Close made a surprise appearance at Disney’s D23 Expo on August 15, 2026, reprising her iconic role as Cruella de Vil during the Disney Experiences showcase. The event, held at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, was part of the announcements for the highly anticipated Villains Land at Magic Kingdom.
Close, who first portrayed the character in the 1996 live-action adaptation of *101 Dalmatians*, delighted fans with her full Cruella costume. She was joined on stage by fellow performers Neil Patrick Harris and Tig Notaro, who was her sidekicks during the presentation. As she turned to face the audience, she was met with roaring cheers and applause, underscoring her lasting impact as one of Disney's most memorable villains.
During her appearance, Close playfully suggested that, much like Maleficent, who has her own ride, she should also have one. "Let’s go and leave these two to work on the opening of my ride," she quipped, leaving the stage to enthusiastic applause. This humorous remark entertained the audience and hinted at the new attraction that is set to be a part of the Villains Land expansion.
The new Cruella ride is the second major attraction announced for Villains Land, following the earlier reveal of a coaster themed around Maleficent. Specific details about the ride's storyline, system, or opening date have yet to be disclosed by Disney, but the excitement among fans is already building.
Villains Land, which aims to celebrate Disney's most notorious antagonists, is expected to feature a range of attractions, dining options, shopping experiences, and a uniquely ominous atmosphere unlike anything currently found at the park. This ambitious expansion is planned to transform an area beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, creating a new destination for guests seeking thrilling encounters with their favorite villains.
Glenn Close's portrayal of Cruella de Vil has become iconic since her first appearance in the 1996 film. She reprised the role in the 2000 sequel, *102 Dalmatians*, solidifying her place in Disney history. The character has since been reimagined in various forms, most recently by Emma Stone in the 2021 film *Cruella*, which explored the origins of the character.
The D23 Expo, known as the ultimate Disney fan event, serves as a platform for the company to share exciting news about upcoming projects and attractions. This year's showcase featured a variety of announcements, but Close's surprise return as Cruella de Vil stood out as a highlight for many attendees. Her presence brings nostalgia and reinforces the character's enduring popularity.
As part of Disney's broader strategy to expand its theme parks, the introduction of Villains Land aligns with the company's focus on enhancing guest experiences through immersive attractions. The decision to include a Cruella-themed ride reflects the character's lasting appeal and the desire to attract fans of all ages.
As development progresses, Disney is expected to reveal more details about the Villains Land expansion, including the timeline for the new Cruella ride. Fans are eager to learn how the attraction will incorporate elements from the original films and how it will fit into the broader narrative of the land.
Disney has historically leveraged nostalgia and beloved characters to draw guests to its parks, and the inclusion of Cruella de Vil is a strategic move to engage both longtime fans and new visitors. The anticipation surrounding the new attractions is likely to generate buzz as construction begins and updates are shared through official channels.
With the announcement of Villains Land and the new Cruella ride, Disney continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating innovative and engaging experiences for guests. As the project moves forward, fans can expect a blend of classic Disney storytelling with cutting-edge ride technology.
The excitement surrounding the new attractions at Magic Kingdom is expected to grow as more information is released in the coming months. Disney has not yet provided a specific opening date for Villains Land, but the prospect of new experiences based on iconic characters like Cruella de Vil is sure to keep fans engaged and eager for updates.