Okay, wait—this is actually kind of a big deal.
A longtime character meet-and-greet at Disney’s Hollywood Studios just got a surprise shake-up, and if you’ve visited this park anytime in the last decade… you’re going to notice the difference immediately.
As of March 20, 2026, Stitch has officially replaced Olaf at the Celebrity Spotlight meet-and-greet location near Echo Lake.
For years, this spot has been the go-to place to meet Olaf in an air-conditioned setting—making it one of the most reliable (and popular) character experiences in the park since 2016.
Instead, guests will find Stitch greeting visitors in the space, bringing a completely different energy to the location—less “warm hugs,” more chaotic alien mischief.
There’s a Catch (For Now)
Before you run to get in line, there’s one important detail: this specific meet-and-greet is currently a Disney Visa Cardmember-exclusive experience.
Stitch is meeting daily from 9 AM to 12 PM, though guests are encouraged to check the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date times.
Meanwhile, Olaf hasn’t disappeared completely—he’s expected to continue appearing elsewhere in the park in a more standard meet-and-greet format.
Why Is This Change Happening Now?
This swap might feel random, but it actually fits into a much bigger trend.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is currently in the middle of a major transformation, with new lands, experiences, and updates rolling out across the park.
Bringing Stitch into a more prominent, dedicated location could also tie into renewed interest in the character—especially with upcoming projects and continued popularity across generations.
Fan Reactions
For longtime visitors, this is definitely the end of an era. Olaf has been a staple at this location for nearly a decade, making him one of the park’s most consistent character experiences.
But at the same time? Stitch is a huge fan-favorite.
And giving him a more permanent, high-profile meet-and-greet could end up being a major win—especially for fans who’ve had to hunt him down in the past.
It’s a small change on paper—but one that says a lot about where the park is headed: new characters, new energy, and a willingness to shake things up.
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