Disney’s new chairman sends strong message for theme park fans

Thomas Mazloum has finished his first D23 as chairman of Disney Experiences, and one theme came through clearly in his post-event conversation with Disney Parks Blog: Disney is listening to its fans.

In an interview after D23 2026, Mazloum discussed the announcements that drew the biggest reactions, the projects he is most excited to see take shape, and the role of fan feedback as Disney continues expanding its parks and cruise business.

He also reflected on what it was like to walk the expo floor and speak directly with Disney fans. Disney Parks Blog's full interview offers more of his thoughts from his first D23 as chairman.

Disney's New "Firsts" Are Getting Attention

Mazloum said he is particularly excited about projects Disney has never attempted before. Among them are the first Villains Land at Magic Kingdom, Disney's first attractions dedicated to Coco and Encanto , and the first attraction based on The Lion King coming to Disneyland Paris.

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"I'm most excited about our firsts… the things that we've never done before," Mazloum told Disney Parks Blog.

He said the new attractions can appeal to longtime Disney fans while also giving people who have never visited a Disney park another reason to go.

The interview follows a D23 showcase packed with announcements across Disney's parks and cruise line, giving Mazloum an early look at the projects he will oversee as chairman.

Some of the Loudest Cheers Were for Familiar Favorites

Not every major reaction at D23 came from a brand-new attraction. Mazloum pointed to the planned reanimation of the Yeti at Expedition Everest, the return of Figment and Dreamfinder, updates to Spaceship Earth at EPCOT, and the planned transformation of Tomorrowland at Disneyland.

Those announcements drew strong reactions from the D23 audience, particularly from longtime Disney fans. Mazloum said Figment and the Yeti may not be household names for every guest, but they remain favorites among Disney's most loyal followers. WDWInfo's report also highlights his comments on those fan-favorite announcements.

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"I want them to know that we hear them," Mazloum said.

He also said the Tomorrowland plans show that Disney is paying attention to existing lands and attractions, rather than focusing only on what comes next.

Mazloum's Favorite Part of D23 Was Offstage

Despite appearing onstage for major announcements, Mazloum said his favorite part of the event was walking the expo floor and talking with fans one-on-one.

He described those conversations as a reminder of the passion Disney fans bring to the company's parks and cruise ships. He also credited Cast Members, Crew Members, and Imagineers for keeping guests connected to Disney long after their first visit.

For now, Mazloum's comments suggest that a mix of new projects and attention to familiar favorites will shape Disney Experiences in the years ahead. The announcements at D23 show what is coming, while his comments make clear that fan reaction will remain part of the conversation.

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This story was originally published by TravelHost on Aug 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.