Disney World enthusiasts are expressing their sorrow after a cherished fixture, the iconic archway at Hollywood Studios, was unexpectedly dismantled overnight, marking the end of an era spanning more than 35 years.

The prominent archway, which has been a staple of the park since its debut as MGM Studios in 1989, has witnessed numerous transformations over the decades. Even when the park was rebranded as Hollywood Studios in 2008, the archway remained a steadfast symbol.

However, visitors arriving at the theme park on Saturday morning were met with surprise and disappointment as they discovered the archway had vanished without a trace during the night.

Photos of the vacant space, once occupied by the towering arch, were shared by the X account Bioreconstruct, sparking an outpouring of emotions among Disney World’s devoted fans. Many took to social media to express their shock and sadness, with some lamenting the change as the ‘end of an era.’

One user poignantly remarked, “Truly the end of an era. With the loss of the archway, yet another piece of the Studios aspect of the park is no more.”

‘Truly the end of an era. With the loss of the archway, yet another piece of the Studios aspect of the park is no more,’ wrote one user.

‘This type of decision is making Disney’s Hollywood Studios more unrecognizable. Disrespectful,’ scathed another.

‘Rip to one of the few remaining pieces left of MGM Studios,’ someone else added.

The Hollywood Studios’ archway has been towering over the park since it first opened as MGM Studios in 1989, but now it has been demolished

In recent months, Disney has been continuously slammed by many of its longtime fans for doing away with numerous beloved attractions. Magic Kingdom at Disney World is seen 

‘What the heck is Disney even doing? First the Liberty Belle, now this?’ asked a different fan.

‘That’s like inhumane,’ read a fifth comment, while a sixth said, ‘I’m depressed.’

In recent months, Disney has been continuously slammed by many of its longtime fans for doing away with numerous beloved attractions and areas to make way for new ones. 

The latest change seems to be part of the upcoming new experience, called The Magic of Disney Animation, which will be replacing the Star Wars: Launch Bay in Hollywood Studios.

In a press release, Disney described it as ‘a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences’ and vowed that it will ‘bring the wonder of animation to life like never before.’ 

Disney noted that the building will be topped with a giant Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat – just like the real Roy E. Disney Animation Building in California.

‘Our story in this newly reimagined space begins as the animators have temporarily stepped away… but the building is still buzzing with activity as the characters have come to life and they’re ready to play,’ reads a description.

‘Inside, you will interact with and explore silly takes on the iconic Disney Animation headquarters, including the many different studio departments. 

When the theme park opened on Saturday, guests were shocked to find that the massive statue had disappeared without a trace during the night. The spot where is used to be is seen

The change seems to be part of the upcoming new experience, called The Magic of Disney Animation, which will be replacing the Star Wars: Launch Bay (seen) in Hollywood Studios 

‘Only this time, some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.’

There will be ‘playful and interactive moments around every corner’ and portraits will ‘come to life before your eyes.’ 

‘You’ll even pencil in some time to learn how to draw your very own character sketch,’ Disney added.

Younger guests will be able to play in the Drawn to Wonderland playground that will be ‘filled with an oversized flower garden with musical instruments, a Mad Tea Party playset and a Tulgey Wood exploration area, all inspired by the original Alice in Wonderland concept art.’

Disney noted that that the building will be topped with a giant Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat – just like the real Roy E Disney Animation Building in California. A mockup for the building is seen

The ‘entire courtyard’ surrounding the building is set to be ‘reimagined’ to look like the real Walt Disney Studios, ‘taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank’

In a press release, Disney described it as ‘a place where kids and kids at heart can laugh, draw, dream, and explore animated new experiences.’ The poster for it is seen above

In addition to the ‘whimsical indoor play area’ there will be tons of chances to meet characters, Disney promised.

The ‘entire courtyard’ surrounding the building is set to be ‘reimagined’ to look like the real Walt Disney Studios, ‘taking inspiration from several buildings found in Burbank.’ 

It will open in 2026. To make way for it, Animation Courtyard, Star Wars: Launch Bay, and Disney Jr Play and Dance! closed on September 25.

The new The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure show will stay open during this time, and over at the soundstage nearby expect a ‘fresh’ Disney Jr show.