D23 Merch, Park Surprises, and the Return of Atari (Ep. 112)

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey are packing their bags for Anaheim and previewing what Disney fans can expect from D23 Day and the 2026 D23 Ultimate Fan Event. They dig into Disneyland exclusives, anniversary merchandise, rare character appearances, and some unexpected collectibles hitting the show floor. Along the way, Jim explains the history behind the Disneylandia name, Lauren investigates Disney's growing interest in repurposing park materials, and both try to make sense of Atari's surprising return to the Disney gaming conversation.

HIGHLIGHTS

• D23 Day at Disneyland brings exclusive merchandise, commemorative ears, a character cavalcade, and rare appearances by Merlin and the Blue Fairy.

• The Disneylandia collection revives a name with roots in one of Walt Disney's earliest pre-Disneyland concepts.

• Hunchback of Notre Dame and Alice in Wonderland anniversary merchandise join a packed lineup of D23 collectibles.

• Atari arrives at D23 with new Toy Story releases, retro Disney games, and an exclusive convention pin.

• Harveys turns retired Soarin' Over California seat belts into collectible bags as Jim and Lauren explore Disney's history of repurposing park materials.

HOSTS

• Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com

• Lauren Hersey - X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 | Instagram: @lauren_hersey_

FOLLOW

• Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews