Disney announced a few days ago that work on Jungle Cruise’s Walt Disney World makeover would begin while the ride was still in operation. We are now seeing our first major change to the ride at Walt Disney World, with Trader Sam completely removed from the attraction’s final scene.
Sam, the jungle’s “head” salesman, and all his related props are gone from the rock where he once stood.
Here’s what Trader Sam looked like in his iconic outfit.
Our Jungle Cruise skipper did not acknowledge his absence.
Watch a video of our cruise sans Sam below.
We assume that Trader Sam will not be returning to the Jungle Cruise, though Disney did announce that the two bars named for him will remain. The ride’s makeover is one of many initiatives promote diversity and remove culturally insensitive imagery from the parks. When completed, this new version of the Jungle Cruise will have a fresh storyline featuring characters such as Alberta Falls (granddaughter to Albert Falls). The makeover will not feature any tie-ins to the upcoming Jungle Cruise film.
There is no released timeline for the Jungle Cruise refurbishment. It seems changes will be happening gradually over the course of 2021, with the new version of the ride being completed for “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.” Keep checking WDWNT as we continue to check in on progress made to the Jungle Cruise.
