Disney's Blockbuster Q3: Record Earnings, Park Expansions, and Streaming Supremacy
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Disney's Blockbuster Q3: Record Earnings, Park Expansions, and Streaming Supremacy
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Disney showed off its considerable muscle this week, posting yet another quarter of record earnings and flexing creative and financial power across almost every business line. According to The Walt Disney Company’s August 6 earnings release, revenues rose to 23.7 billion dollars for Q3, up 2 percent compared to last year, and adjusted earnings per share jumped 18 percent year over year. CEO Bob Iger sounded more energized than ever, declaring Disney “is taking major steps forward in streaming” as it launches ESPN’s standalone streaming service and finalizes NFL programming deals, touting a transformation that will soon fully integrate Hulu into Disney Plus. The combined platform aims to be the ultimate destination for “branded and general entertainment, family programming, news, and industry-leading sports,” with more functionality and personalized features rolling out later this year.
Perhaps the buzziest headline is Walt Disney World pulling off its biggest Q3 ever—not by bringing in more guests, but by making each visit count. As reported by Disney Tourist Blog and echoed by Disney CFO Hugh Johnston in the earnings call, the resort posted record-setting revenues for the spring and early summer period, the very window when Universal debuted its Epic Universe park. Fears of guest “cannibalization” proved unfounded, at least for now, as Disney’s flat attendance was offset by spiking hotel occupancy and increased per-guest spending. Resort occupancy beat expectations, especially at Walt Disney World, thanks in part to expanded offerings in the cruise line segment, like the newly launched Disney Treasure. The company upgraded its guidance for the Experiences segment, now expecting operating income growth at the high end of their forecast for fiscal 2025. Johnston called it a “record Q3,” while Iger boasted about more park expansions underway globally than ever before.
Meanwhile, big changes are coming to the parks themselves. On July 22, Disney Experiences announced the closure of Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios after September 25 to make way for The Magic of Disney Animation, a new space packed with interactive workshops and character meet-and-greets inspired by the legacy of Walt Disney Studios. The iconic Sorcerer’s Hat will return as the new area centerpiece. Grand Avenue is already under wraps, soon to emerge as Monstropolis, a Monsters, Inc.-themed land with a roller coaster simulating the franchise’s door chase. A major retheme for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, starring the Muppets, is in the works for 2026. Park insiders and fan outlets are buzzing about a “total refresh” for Hollywood Studios, while Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences Chairman, confirmed that construction is accelerating at multiple sites.
Streaming headlines are just as lively. In August, Disney Plus will premiere standout originals like Eyes of Wakanda and a new Proud Family season, plus indie-darling documentaries and ESPN sports exclusives. Hulu’s integration deepens, offering hit series and new international launches, with the Star tile replaced across global Disney Plus platforms by Hulu content. Disney again leads Emmy nominations with 137 across 50 titles, highlighted by Andor’s 14-nod haul.
On social media, discussion is dominated by the financial wins and the imminent transformation at Hollywood Studios. Speculation swirls about how much Disney can raise park prices before attendance dips, and whether the streaming super-app will redefine the digital media ecosystem. Official accounts tease behind-the-scenes footage from construction sites, while fans debate the fate of beloved rides and favorite characters. For now, Disney’s story is one of relentless momentum and big bets—equal parts confidence and reinvention, with every headline reinforcing a brand that refuses to stand still.
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