Guests visiting either Florida’s Magic Kingdom Park or California’s Disneyland may soon notice the latest updates coming to the iconic Jungle Cruise as they come around that final bend. Trader Sam is charting a new adventure along the river. Disney is updating the Jungle Cruise to remove racist depictions of indigenous people, in particular the scene that involves the headhunter character, Trader Sam. Sam had appeared in the final scene of the ride as an animatronic holding shrunken heads. No more.
Ever wonder what happened to that gramophone you accidentally left behind on the boat during your last adventure? How about that beloved pith helmet that went missing? Word on the stream is that Alberta Falls, proprietor of the Jungle Navigation Company Ltd., has entrusted her longtime friend, Trader Sam, to manage the new Lost & Found location. But, with Trader Sam being Trader Sam, there’s always an opportunity to make some extra money. After all, all the best rides end with a gift shop, right?
In this image of their newest venture together, Sam is betting on an established reputation as the best merchant in the jungle. But, while he’s out lost and finding some new inventory, it’s the animals that get the last laugh. The new scene is one of several that are interconnected and build on the original story and humor of the Jungle Cruise. As previously shared, our world-famous skippers will continue to present the unique adventure and interactions guests expect. The Jungle Cruise enhancements debut later this year.
