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Hollywood Studios Relocates Darth Vader Meet-and-Greet: Are Fans Excited?

Sign for "Star Tours" at an amusement park entrance, featuring a "Disney FastPass+ Entrance" on the left with a clock, and "Stand-By Entrance" space on the right for wait time, surrounded by trees.
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is giving Star Wars fans a new way to interact with the Dark Side. Starting tomorrow, September 25, guests will be able to meet Darth Vader at a new location near the Star Tours queue, providing opportunities for photos, autographs, and a memorable encounter with the legendary villain.

A dark, armored figure in a cape stands in a smoky, dimly lit corridor facing a person in a white uniform whose back is to the camera.

Credit: Lucasfilm

Relocation Following Closures

The change comes after the permanent closure of Star Wars: Launch Bay and the Animation Courtyard, which previously hosted Star Wars-themed meet-and-greets. With those areas no longer accessible, Disney has moved Vader to the Star Tours queue, keeping him in a central Star Wars-themed area of the park and ensuring that guests can continue to enjoy an immersive interaction with one of the galaxy’s most iconic figures.

Darth Vader’s presence near the Star Tours queue is designed to complement the attraction’s storyline, allowing guests to encounter the Sith Lord before boarding the ride. The character will be appearing daily starting September 25, though Disney has not specified how long this location will remain active. Lines are expected to form quickly, given Vader’s popularity among park visitors.

A New Experience for Fans

The relocation highlights Disney’s ongoing commitment to keeping Star Wars characters accessible amid the evolving layout of Hollywood Studios. By integrating the meet-and-greet with Star Tours, guests experience a seamless blend of attraction excitement and character interaction, enhancing the overall immersion of the park’s Star Wars offerings.

A nighttime view of a Star Wars-themed attraction at Walt Disney World features a large, illuminated AT-AT walker among trees. A brightly lit "Star Tours" sign is visible on a building to the left. The scene is enhanced with colorful lighting effects, showcasing the magic of Disney attractions.

Credit: Disney

Fans planning to visit are encouraged to check the official Disney website or app for the most up-to-date information on character appearances and scheduling. Meeting Darth Vader in this new location promises to be a highlight for fans, combining the thrill of an iconic ride with the unforgettable presence of a cinematic villain.

This move reflects Disney’s broader strategy to adapt its Star Wars areas while maintaining the memorable experiences and accessibility that fans have come to expect at Hollywood Studios.

About Eva Merrill

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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