Disney Just Filed a NEW Permit for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster—And the Muppets Makeover Is Actually Happening

If you’ve been wondering whether Disney is serious about turning Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster into a Muppets-themed experience, we just got confirmation. Walt Disney Imagineering filed a brand new permit today for the installation of set elements at the iconic Hollywood Studios attraction, and it’s the clearest sign yet that this wild transformation is moving full steam ahead.

According to AllEars, the permit was filed on December 18th and lists Mecca Productions Inc. as the contractor tasked with installing set elements for the re-theme. While the permit description is brief, it signals that behind-the-scenes construction work is officially underway—even though the ride remains open to guests for now.

What We Know About the Timeline

This permit comes at a pivotal moment in the attraction’s transformation. Earlier this month, Disney permanently removed the Aerosmith pre-show from the attraction, and on December 12th, the company announced that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will close for good on March 2, 2026. That gives guests just over two months to experience the original version one last time before the Muppets take over.

The new version—Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets—is scheduled to reopen in summer 2026. While that sounds like a quick turnaround, Disney has made it clear they’re working to minimize downtime by starting prep work now while the ride is still operational.

Why This Matters

The filing of this permit isn’t just a paperwork formality. It’s evidence that Disney is actively preparing the physical infrastructure for the Muppets re-theme, which will feature the Electric Mayhem band, Kermit, Miss Piggy, and Scooter. The “set elements” referenced in the permit likely include new theming pieces, props, and visual components that will replace the current Aerosmith aesthetic.

This transformation is also bittersweet for Muppets fans. The re-theme comes on the heels of the permanent closure of MuppetVision 3D, which shut down to make way for a new Monsters, Inc. land. Disney’s decision to give the Muppets a new home on Sunset Boulevard was seen as a consolation prize, but it’s quickly becoming clear that the company is investing real resources into making this transition happen.

What’s Next

For now, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster continues to operate with its classic Aerosmith soundtrack and high-speed thrills. But with permits filed, contractors hired, and a March closure date locked in, the clock is ticking. If you want to ride the original version one last time, your window is closing fast.

We’ll be watching closely as more details emerge about what the Muppets version will look like when it debuts next summer. One thing’s for sure: this won’t be your typical Disney refurbishment.