To Infinity and the Purple Carpet, Disney Cast Members Celebrate the World Premiere of Disney and Pixar’s ‘Lightyear’

Originally published at Disney Parks News

As cast members, our mission is to create magical experiences for families from all around the world. But last week, a special mission was assigned for a few Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters cast members from Disneyland Resort –attending the world premiere of Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear.”

After disembarking their XP-40 space cruisers and stepping onto the purple carpet, these space rangers were greeted with astronomical applause.

Attractions host Justin shared; “It was amazing walking on the purple carpet and everyone recognizing us for who we were – as we were representing Disneyland cast members. They knew exactly what we were here for. And it was so nice to be able to represent that.”

This was just the beginning of the feelings amongst the crew! “Electric,” “ecstatic,” and “thrilled” were some of the words Edward, Lisa and Kenny used to describe their emotions about being in Hollywood for this special occasion.

The final step to completing the mission: being among the first to see the new film. After the screening, Kenny shared how proud he was to be a space ranger, adding:  “It was an honor seeing Disney and Pixar’s ‘Lightyear’ amongst all the people who made this movie; it was beyond my dreams!”

As the evening came to a close, our space rangers, beaming with pride, blasted off in their space cruisers to head back home but they weren’t the only cast members to be celebrating the new theatrical release.

At Walt Disney World Resort, John and Sidonie are giving guests a sneak peek of Disney and Pixar “Lightyear” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

“I haven’t had a show yet where no one has clapped. Everyone has positive reactions. Some guests have even asked to see it multiple times in a row,” John, a cast member of nearly 40 years, shared.

Even from just the preview clip, Sidonie was impressed by what she saw, especially noting the animation: “Everything is so realistic!”

“Buzz’s character relates to certain aspects of my life,” John shared. “We all have those moments where we feel like giving up. But we need that reminder and confidence to not give up. I say, ‘What can I do to make this right?’ That persistence shows overtime.”

While Sidonie has been busy ushering in guests to see the preview, one thing is certain; The release of “Lightyear” can’t come soon enough. “I can’t wait for June 17 for the movie to release! I’m like a kid in a candy store.”

With the release of the film on Friday. Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies at Magic Kingdom Park will offer a limited-time Lightyear-inspired treat to stay cool while defending the galaxy. The cast there can’t wait to serve up the Zurg Freeze. Which is a black currant slushy, topped with strawberry DOLE Whip and showered with boba pearl “blaster balls.”

“We’re all used to swirling ice cream. So DOLE Whip is going to be fun to swirl, too,” said food and beverage cast member Gino. “It’s going to be great having the Zurg Freeze to bring the story to what we serve!”

Working alongside Gino are Danielle, Zoe and Sarah who all are thrilled to be serving up a unique treat to those Lightyear fans. It’s no question that everyone at Aunty Gravity’s Galactic Goodies are fans of Buzz Lightyear. And this film will inspire many both cast and guests alike.

“I’m excited to see [the film]. Who doesn’t love a great origin story? It’ll be great to see why Andy wanted a Buzz Lightyear so much,” recalled Danielle. While Zoe mentioned that “Buzz is a hero. He brings out the best in all of us. He wants to save the galaxy like we all do. We’re all space rangers now!”

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