Disney officials have said that they are removing the Sorcerer’s Hat from Hollywood Studios. I, for one, am not bothered by this change at all. In fact, I think it’s a welcome change as the hat was only meant to be temporary to celebrate what would have been Walt’s 100th birthday.

Giant hidden Mickey from above at Hollywood Studios.

Not only did Hollywood Studios already have an “Icon”, the Earful Tower,  but it ruined one of the largest and least known hidden mickeys at any of the parks.  It also took away from the view of the Mann’s Chinese Theater replica that I believe makes this park what it is.

Being able to see the Chinese Theater may be a moot point in the coming months though as rumor has it that Hollywood Studios will be undergoing a drastic change with The Great Movie Ride being removed in favor of something new and more up to date. I have heard that there is even the possibility of a name change coming to the park itself to better reflect that it is no longer in the business of production and is strictly there for entertainment purposes. Look for Star Wars and Pixar to take an expanded role in the themed areas of the park. You may even see something along the lines of what Islands of Adventure has with separate lands based on Disney properties.

I am all for upgrades to Hollywood Studios. It has been neglected for far too long and really could use some sprucing up. I do wish that they would keep the Great Movie Ride and just change the sets and movies out. I would think that would be a cheaper upgrade than building from the bottom up.