Disney superfans from around the world gathered in Anaheim, California, for the company’s biennial fan conference, D23. The event attracted tens of thousands of fans, with attendees dressed as their favorite Disney characters, from Moanas to Darth Vaders. However, one noticeable absence was young people between the ages of 12 and 27, also known as generation Z.
The demographics of the D23 conference raised questions about whether gen Z is less excited about Disney than previous generations. The heavy presence of millennial Disney adults at the event highlighted this issue, with panels celebrating vintage classics like Toy Story, Marvel’s Wolverine, and the Muppets drawing larger crowds than newer offerings like Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
Some attendees noted that gen Z may be more interested in other Disney-owned franchises, such as Marvel and Star Wars, rather than the classic animated films. Factors like the high cost of attending Disney events and theme parks may also be contributing to the lack of gen Z representation at the conference.
Disney’s chief brand officer, Asad Ayaz, emphasized the importance of engaging with gen Z through various platforms, including social media, YouTube, TikTok, and gaming. The company’s efforts to connect with younger viewers include partnerships with Epic Games, creators of Fortnite, and collaborations with gen Z content creators on TikTok.
When it comes to film and theme park experiences, gen Z viewers have different preferences than previous generations. They gravitate towards interactive and authentic experiences, which pose challenges for traditional theme parks designed for older generations. Disney’s recent efforts to appeal to gen Z, such as the animated film Inside Out 2, have been well-received by younger audiences.
While some gen Z fans may be less interested in Disney’s classic offerings, others, like 17-year-old Mari Earnshaw, still have a strong affinity for the brand. The question remains whether gen Z’s current disinterest in Disney is temporary or indicative of a more permanent shift in tastes. Ultimately, the true test for Disney will be whether gen Z continues to feel the pull of the brand as they become parents and introduce their own children to the magic of Disney.
