The family of the guest who passed away after riding Stardust Racers has responded to plans for reopening the attraction, Josh D’Amaro is considered the frontrunner to become Disney CEO after Bob Iger, and Universal Orlando Resort has updated several safety and accessibility guidelines fore the newly-reopened Stardust Racers — all this and more in today’s daily recap for Saturday, October 4, 2025.
Daily Recap (10/4/25)
Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World Resort Hotels
- Since our last construction update, new light fixtures are being tested behind the check-in desks at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, while another elevator has been blocked by some curtains.
- The Art of Disney on Demand kiosk at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World has two new modern art pieces available for purchase.
New Merchandise
- A collection of sweet strawberry-themed character plush and bag charms has arrived in Disney Springs.
- Disney Wishables Shimmer Series plush toys featuring characters from the film Coco are now available at Disney World.
Other Walt Disney World News
- Tangy and refreshing, DOLE Whip has soft-served its way into the hearts of many Disney Parks fans. This tantalizing treat is so popular that fans even clamor for merchandise and snap up seasonal specialties like they’re going out of style. But what is a DOLE Whip, and how does it have such a prolific fan base?
Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Park
- A new construction permit has been filed for the address of Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at Disneyland Resort, hinting at some potential upcoming changes.
- Construction work taking place at the Disneyland Hotel is causing some issues with how guests enter the lobby. An alternate side door is now being used as the main entrance.
- Updates to the Disneyland Resort entertainment calendar have revealed the scheduled times for select holiday offerings, some which are different this year compared to 2024.
Disney California Adventure
- Rex is now meeting guests in his Partysaurus Rex getup at Disneyland Resort, so the party can really get started!
New Merchandise
- Mickey Mouse Club is celebrating its 70th anniversary, and Disneyland Resort has several new items available for purchase.
Disney Store Merchandise
- Ornaments, figurines, and a Loungefly mini backpack are among The Nightmare Before Christmas items available from Hallmark this holiday season.
The Walt Disney Company
- A new report from Bloomberg has noted that Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro continues to be the frontrunner in the search for a successor to Disney CEO Bob Iger.
Universal Orlando Resort
Epic Universe
- Attorney Ben Crump, who is representing the family of the man who passed away shortly after riding Stardust Racers at Epic Universe, has issued a new statement about plans to reopen the attraction.
- Stardust Racers at Epic Universe has been seen testing at full speed with Team Members on board ahead of the attraction’s planned reopening.
- Following a closure of over two weeks, Stardust Racers at Epic Universe has officially reopened to guests.
- Effective beginning on October 4, Universal has added a new Guide for Safety and Accessibility for Epic Universe, Universal Studios Florida, and Islands of Adventure, which includes some updated requirements for attractions such as Stardust Racers.
- Home of merchandise from all the different portals, Sensorium Emporium is one of the first major merchandise locations guests will encounter upon their arrival at Epic Universe. Check out our complete list of all the available items, including pictures and prices.
New Merchandise
- Hounds, raise your glass to this new color-changing souvenir pilsner from The Burning Blade Tavern in Epic Universe!
WDW News Today
Stardust Racers Reopening After Investigation
That’s it for today; we hope you enjoyed this Daily Recap. Thanks for stopping by, and we’ll see you tomorrow!