Disney CEO: Masks Likely Required for Disney World Guests
New Disney CEO Bob Chapek just gave a wide-ranging interview to CNBC following Shanghai Disneyland’s successful reopening day. Topics covered included the future of Walt Disney World and Disneyland, as well as the film slate, Disney+ and more. In this post, we’ll recap some of what was discussed and what clues Chapek gave about the Walt Disney Company’s roadmap for the next few months.
We’ll start with Shanghai Disneyland, the reopening of which was the likely impetus for the interview. Last night, we watched this 85-minute live stream of this Shanghai Disneyland’s opening plus a number of Instagram stories from people who know who live in China. By appearances, things went well. Attendance appeared modest, wait times were short, and guests were (mostly) complying with requirements of social distancing and wearing masks.
Watching Shanghai Disneyland’s reopening was probably the most excited and happy we’ve been in weeks. Even though we have “complicated” feelings about going back, it was nice to see. The entire world is going through a tough time right now, and it felt like a glimmer of hope during that. Having even one Disney park in the world open sends a symbol of returning to normalcy–people going back to enjoying fun and frivolous things…
Not to bring this crashing back to reality too quickly, but it’s worth emphasizing that Shanghai Disneyland is dramatically different from Walt Disney World and Disneyland for a number of reasons. Testing, tracing, and the prophylactic measures taken in China all differ from the United States. As do new cases–Shanghai was never the epicenter of the pandemic, and the city has had no new cases since March 3.
It also helps that the majority owner of Shanghai Disneyland is a state-controlled company, meaning the park has both the blessing and liability shield afforded by the government. There are myriad other cultural, demographic, and logistic differences between Shanghai Disneyland and Walt Disney World. All of which is to say that we don’t want to draw too strong of conclusions from that park’s reopening, even if the lessons there will undoubtedly be applied to the domestic parks.
During his CNBC interview, Disney CEO Bob Chapek spoke about the reopening of Shanghai Disneyland. He described the local market there as “short book,” meaning that most guests plan visits and buy park tickets with little notice, as opposed to booking vacation packages months in advance (like at Walt Disney World).
Chapek indicated that Disney is significantly constraining attendance, and that nearly all advance reservations have been booked. “We’re pretty much booked out for the rest of the week. We have a few tickets available on a few days, but essentially, everything is gone.”
This claim is dubious–as of this morning, every day after today (going by China Standard Time) for the rest of the month had both full and half-day tickets available. Despite initial widespread reporting that reopening day tickets sold out in minutes, more availability was released and tickets were available through the weekend.
In any case, Chapek reported receiving countless emails from guests eager for the parks to reopen (that’s undoubtedly true). Chapek noted that for many people, Disney represents “some semblance of normalcy.” He further stated that Disney wants to reopen as soon as possible around the world, but is moving cautiously, responsibly, and slowly.
Chapek pointed to the reduced capacity reopening in Shanghai Disneyland as a small step towards reopening other parks, a “stair-step” towards prudently ramping up to normal operations.
The plan at Shanghai Disneyland is to go slow and steady, increasing capacity numbers by 5,000 guests per week in compliance with government health and safety guidelines.
Chapek praised guest compliance with the new safety measures, before being asked a couple of questions about the timeline for reopening Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disney Resort.
(Nothing really substantive was said about either. We know from recent social media photos that HKDL is preparing the parks with similar infrastructure to what was installed in Shanghai two weeks before that park reopened. Japan just extended its state of emergency, so Tokyo Disney Resort is unlikely to reopen anytime in the next month.)
When asked specifically about Walt Disney World reopening in July, Chapek indicated that he wouldn’t comment on any specific dates. (In case you missed it over the weekend, Walt Disney World Delayed Bookings Another Month, suggesting that July 1, 2020 is now the earliest reopening date for the Florida resorts.)
Instead, Chapek said in large part it will depend upon guidance from the state and local governments, plus healthcare experts and hospitals in the area where Disney operates, plus their capacities.
Chapek did strike an optimistic tone when discussing the reopening of Disney Springs, which he compared favorably to Disneytown at Shanghai Disney Resort. He noted that Disney dipped its toes in the water with Disneytown, and will be doing the same with Disney Springs.
He indicated that the soft opening of Disneytown went incredibly well in terms of guest cooperation, and hopes that this has paved the way for a “great rebirth” of Disney Parks. Chapek also stressed guest behavior and compliance, intimating that subsequent progress will likely hinge on how well guests do with the new rules imposed at Disney Springs.
When asked about health safety protocol and potential impediments to reopening Walt Disney World and Disneyland, Chapek spoke of cultural norms and environment.
He also broached the topic of face masks, which have already proven to be a lightning rod for controversy among some Disney fans.
Regarding face masks, Chapek said: “one of the things we’re likely going to require is masks for both the Cast and for the guests. And I think the masks for the guest will be something that culturally is different. In Asia, as you know, it’s fairly commonplace for folks to walk around in public with masks on.
That is not the case in the United States. So that will be something that will be a little trying for some of the guests, particularly in the hot, humid summers that we tend to have.”
From there, the interview bounced to the topic of Disney’s upcoming Mulan release, which Chapek confirmed will go forward with its July 24, 2020 release date. He believes there’s sufficient pent-up demand for the release, and it will be sufficiently safe for film-goers to return to theaters.
There was also talk about releasing more on Disney+ (or not), the stoppage of film production in California (including the upcoming season of the Mandalorian), live sports on ESPN, the Chapek-Iger relationship, and more.
You can watch Chapek’s full CNBC interview for yourself:
Overall, it’s interesting to hear directly from Disney’s CEO as to what’s on the horizon, and what the internal thinking is right now within the Walt Disney Company. While a lot obviously remains unknown (and is still subject to change) this is the second straight time we’ve found Chapek’s words encouraging (the first being the recent earnings call).
Chapek once again reinforced Disney’s resilience, and pointed to the (many) bright spots for long-term success even as many of Disney’s business units are hit especially hard right now. We’re not exactly “Chapek cheerleaders,” but we are certainly rooting for the company’s ongoing success. He’s demonstrated more poise and eloquence in the last couple weeks than we’ve heard in any previous interview, which bodes well. Some leaders are forged in crisis…maybe that’s exactly what’s happening here?
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YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you think of this news? Think this bodes well for the reopening of Walt Disney World’s parks & resorts within the next few months? Are you excited to see that Shanghai Disneyland has reopened, even if you won’t be visiting anytime in the near future (or ever)? Any questions? Keep comments respectful, apolitical, and on topic. Anything not following these requirements will be removed.
My family and I visit Disney World fairly regularly. I respect the fact if you want to wear one but ,If wearing masks are mandatory then that’s a deal breaker for us.
I’m not a big advocate for wearing masks in public, but if that’s what it takes for me to enjoy my Disney Parks, then it’s a step I’m more than willing to take.
Let me ask you this – do you wear a seat belt? Are you allowed into a store without a shirt or shoes on? Of course not. These are things that have become normal. Until we have a vaccine, we have to be cautious, not only for ourselves but for our fellow humans. If that means wearing a mask, then I’m wearing a mask. We have to wear seat belts, and that only affects the person wearing or not wearing it.
Is it sometimes a pain? Sure. But I would do that for my fellow humans. That’s the bottom line.
And that’s a considerate, compassionate, sensible point of view. Thank you for doing your part to protect others.
Thank you. I can understand if someone makes the personal choice to stay home from Disney because masks are uncomfortable in the heat. But to do it out of some sort of petulant defiance, wow.
Will the characters be required to wear masks? We booked several character meals for November and I’m worried they might not happen.
Spending $$$$$ and wearing the mask, how does a person get to experience the fun of it.
We are canceling our trip and will not reschedule as long there are mask. The lines at 6 ft for one ride the line will be so long and wrapped into another line.
Before leaving an emotionally-charged comment about masks (in either direction), I’d encourage you to watch that live stream from Shanghai Disneyland. Yes, it’s long–but it’s also relaxing and a nice vicarious escape.
More importantly, you’ll see in practice what this actually looks like. Guests removing masks for photo ops, lots of empty space, etc. There is obviously going to be a steep learning curve and adjustment period for so much of what will become *temporary* practices, and some people (a LOT of people) will understandably want to delay trips. However, it’s worth seeing how this will actually work before imagining the worst case scenario and becoming upset by that.
In reality, Shanghai Disneyland is undoubtedly *more* extreme than anything that’ll happen at Walt Disney World or Disneyland.
(Also, a friendly reminder to keep the comments civil and respectful. Threads will be deleted (in their entirety) if they go off the rails. Arguing back and forth accomplishes literally nothing. If you can’t make your point succinctly in a comment or two, move along. You’re not going to change any minds just by constantly reiterating the same points over and over again.)
That was my question. I am assuming this will all be temporary until this all blows over? I never got the feeling any of these measures wold be written in stone forever.
If masks are required, might be good for public relations if Disney supplied masks, say Mickey and Minnie, at no charge. Would especially encourage children to keep mask on.
I can totally see people taking additional shots in similar lighting conditions without masks to later photshop into the character pics.
I’m fine with any measures other than wearing a mask. Hot, humid and wearing a mask will be a bad combination. I will cancel/reschedule our trip if that’s the case.
Under the “shield” of the Chinese government? Really, Tom? The ones who hid the virus for months while it spread across the planet? The ones that pressured WHO to not release the info? The ones who have the world’s biggest concentration camp for Muslims? Come on, man, let’s not kowtow to one of the most oppressive regimes on the planet.
To clarify, the ‘shield’ offered there is one of legal liability. The point is that no visitor is going to get very far attempting litigation against a theme park that’s majority owner is state-controlled.
Our family would not be able to return to DisneyWorld at all if masks were not required for guests due to risk factors with this disease. It won’t be comfortable in Florida heat, but the winter months are better for that concern. And as far as heat/comfort goes, the plastic rain on his aren’t particularly comfortable in the summer heat and humidity either, but everyone seems to manage those.
One person going into the parks with Covid, not wearing a mask, could infect hundreds who would then take it back to their home states and countries, possibly starting new outbreaks. As much as the masks aren’t convenient or fun, they do help prevent that being such a strong likelihood.
raincoats and masks are completely 2 different animals!! BIG difference..I can breathe in a raincoat..can not breathe with a mask on..I have made up my mind about going and that is my choice..it is not worth it to me to wear one and my husband also has COPD and can not breathe with a mask either..we will happily stay away until we can go without having to worry about a mask.
For me having to wear a mask would be a huge No since I have a fear of having anything covering my face. I will not even get into the discussion of their effectiveness or lack there of. If you feel like you need to wear a mask for your safety then feel free to do. However please do not force your fears on to others. Or if this will be case maybe have every other week for wearing masks. So those that want to attend with everyone wearing mask may do so and those of us that want to attend without a mask may do so.
Wearing a mask isn’t for YOUR protection. It’s to protect OTHER PEOPLE. You can spread this virus without having any symptoms. Wearing a mask (or any face covering, such as a bandana) contains any viral particles that YOU might exhale that would infect OTHER people. Also, these aren’t “fears” being forced upon you, it’s a way to prevent the airborne transmission of a virus that you might have and give to others without EVER knowing you had it. I repeat, wearing a mask or face covering like the CDC is recommending is NOT going to protect the wearer, but will protect those around the wearer if the wearer is unknowingly infected with the virus.
Does anyone remember when the virus first hit, the government officials said masks do not work. Now they say they do work. I wish people would look at the facts and realize the particle size of Covid 19 is so small it will penetrate all cloth masks. Why do you feel safe with this knowledge? It’s a false sense of security. You believe you are going to be protected but in reality if you are worried about the virus, you shouldn’t be visiting WDW. The masks are scientifically useless.
While I agree there are various issues affecting masks’ efficacy, citing the particle size of the virus is not relevant. You aren’t going to be coughing up single virus cells. It will be in droplets of phlegm, sputum, etc that are far, far larger and will catch on a cloth or other mask. That doesn’t mean they can’t soak through eventually and get to the inside, but common sense tells you that you’ll have more than one mask in the heat and likely wash them a couple times in the bathroom with hand sanitizer, etc. for re-use or dispose of them as you go along, maybe wearing 4-5 per day.
I’m not sure why, as medical science is racing to figure out the spread and treatment of a new virus, the fact that the guidance changes as the medical community learns more is viewed with derision and scorn. It’s an iterative process. The fact that masks were not recommended by the CDC initially was actually contrary to many other health organizations elsewhere in the world. That said, the CDC is not telling you to wear a mask for your protection, it is to catch the viral particles that are being exhaled by an unknowingly infected person, thereby preventing them from becoming truly airborne and infecting others. The fact that scientists research things and figure out better ways to prevent the transmission of this virus is promising and should not be used to say “masks are scientifically useless” (a ridiculous comment by itself).
If one has a problem with masks then just don’t go. I certainly understand why people wouldn’t want to wear them but from what I’ve seen of the types of masks being used and the way people are wearing them, 75 percent of them might as well not be wearing them anyway.
I can also understand why people wouldn’t want to spend the money to go to Disney unless all of the attractions are open. Again, if you don’t feel it worth the money, just don’t go.
Be realistic. Disney will open when they please and as they please. We then can either choose to go or not.
It’s simple really. All we have to do is wait and see what finally happens.
Agree 100% with your calmly stated comment.
I wish it was that easy. Disney will not refund our annual passes that were purchased the last week of January so not going is not really much of an option. We had a trip planned with other family members for april and it never happened. There are other people like us out there so we are screwed and it pisses me off.
I thought I read they were prorating refunds
We tried wearing the mask but found that my daughter i cannot breath with them cause us not beable to breath and cause us to coughing alot and cause our anextiy to act up. Then my son has special need cannot have anything over his face so it look like avist yo park is outare reach. For time being.
Same as other guest my daughter is very clostraphobic and can’t have anything on her face. So sorry this is the way of the future we have enjoyed many years coming there but unfortunately will have to cancel this years trip
I definitely believe in the science behind the masks. I’ve been wearing them everywhere I go for six weeks or so. If I was a local I’d have no problem popping in a park for an hour or two. To travel there, I may wait until we no longer need masks or maybe I’ll just change the way I visit. I just can’t imagine wearing a mask all day in the heat. I’m definitely motivated to shop quickly so I can get to my car and take off the mask.
I really miss Disney though. Maybe I’ll give it a try. My trips are fairly inexpensive so I could still feel like I get my money’s worthy. I can’t imagine going a once yearly trip or once in a lifetime trip this year though.
I wear a mask every time I’m in public as an essential worker, or when going to the supermarket or pharmacy. However, those are for short jaunts, and not on a continual basis. As much as I agree with wearing a mask in public, I personally would not be able to wear a mask for 12 hours a day in the heat and humidity of September in Florida (when our family’s WDW vacation is currently scheduled). I would likely faint from the lack of ventilation.
So, while I applaud and agree with Disney for requiring masks to reopen, our family will need to postpone our vacation (a once-in-20-years event, and our daughter’s first visit) until such time as there is a vaccine and we can attend without masks.
It just costs too much money for us to visit more than once or twice more in our lifetimes, so we need for it to be as close to normal as possible to entice us to drop $10K on the vacation.
If only one park opens will our AP activate at that time?? I bought AP for 4 parks!!! Help
If you have purchased an AP and not yet activated it, it will activate on its own. Nothing happening at the parks activates an AP. You activate it. If you do nothing, nothing will happen. Don’t worry. HTH
*facepalm* It will NOT activate on its own. The whole point of my reply was to tell you APs do NOT activate on their own. You have to go through a whole process to make it happen. Don’t worry. And excuse my typo.
No way am I dropping big $ on a Disney trip that requires masks. I dont even think cast members should be required. If you want to wear a dopey mask Be my guest. I’ve never worn one outside the OR. It just flat out dumb. You cant wear it while you eat, so if you can take it off to eat inside of a building….. why in the world would it make sense to wear one walking around outside?
Agreed 100%
Presumably tables where people eat will be spaced at least 6 feet apart, and capacity at the restaurants will be limited. Even people in lines will likely be spaced apart with lines drawn on the ground. But walking around? People can hardly be expected to keep their distance. So, to me, walking around wearing a mask makes more sense then wearing it while eating or in line.
Thank you. It’s also about risk/harm *reduction*. No, it is not a guarantee. Healthcare workers in full PPE are not guaranteed safety. We’re triny to make things safer.
Personally I love hearing all these people who say they won’t go if they have to wear a mask–more space for me!!!
Agreed. Ridiculous.
Epcot – masks- will they be practical? Eating-drinking -socializing is part of its fabric and certainly alcohol can impair a proper social distance-I know all must be working hard anticipating these issues and trying to do what’s best
Not one in our family can do masks either.
We won’t go when masks are required. And the mask wearing is not cultural.
actually, it is. once SARS happened in asia, people in those countries started wearing masks in public because they understood how it helps protects other people. those people seem to have a lot more consideration for other people than americans have displayed recently.
I’m not sure it is cultural vs geographical, but in Asia they appear to be more comfortable wearing masks.
I would definitely prefer not wearing a mask to a place of fun and pleasure, but if it is expected for health and safety reasons, and entrance is prohibited without it, then sign me up. I am not a rebel in this regard.
And yes, it is a matter of consideration. Why would you ever place a fellow human at risk of an infectious disease if you could play a role in potentially preventing that?
10000000% Agree!
I don’t mind all the safety precautions that will be needed but then there needs to be deep discounts on tickets and resort rooms. You can’t expect guests to pay $300-$600 a night for a room or over $110 a day for a ticket and not get the usual park experience. No fireworks, no parades, probably not be able to ride many rides. I do hope that discounts will come out soon once Disney knows the opening dates or the parks.
I agree they will need to adjust prices to experience. I am ok wearing a mask especially a Disney one. I wear a mask to keep others safe . You can have this virus and not know it. The masks are to protect others so if you do have it you are not spreading it. Imagine one person not wanting to wear a mask and they are that one person who is carrying the virus. We may never open again if that happens. Follow the medical doctor’s advice and we all will be good.
Good luck everyone!!
I’m totally against compulsory wearing of masks, I have a allergens to any pressure on my face so elastic etc, I suffer from anaphylactic and have to carry an epi pen so if I wore one I could need an ambulance and if I don’t wear one will I be refused entry?
I need to know how long this would be in place as I’d need to cancel or reschedule my trip
I am debating on if I will renew my WDW annual pass. I have problems with the face masks to the point of shortened breath coughing and panic attacks coupled with the heat in Florida so the future of Disney may be out of my reach going forward..am sad this day has come but glad I have been able to experience the old Disney. It just won’t be the same magic as before.
Running mid- to high 90s with feels-like temp above 110 is typical July weather in Orlando, but is entirely doable in shorts and a light shirt. But mark my word, if WDW forces guests to wear masks, they are going to have people sick from the heat all over the park. When temps are that high, a significant part of your cooling is being able to breathe freely. I’m a lifelong Floridan who’s well-adapted to the heat and humidity, but even I wouldn’t be foolish enough to wear a mask outside in that kind of weather. I had us booked at the Wilderness Lodge for July 2-4 this year, but mandatory masks are a deal breaker. Trust me, folks, if a native Floridian won’t do it, think long and hard before you risk all that money to end up with heat exhaustion (or worse, heat stroke).
I agree, Jay. I experienced heat stroke years ago. I was 17, healthy, living in Indiana… spending time outside in August. I ended up in the ER. The temps and humidity there aren’t as bad as Florida. I’m concerned that the number of people who experience this type of problem, due to masks and heat, will be extremely high. Many people being treated for this during those hot months isn’t something Disney, or any of us, would want.