Disney's Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was originally conceptualized to be set on Tatooine. One of the most anticipated attractions to arrive at the Disney theme parks in decades, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened early last year at Disneyland in California and later in 2019 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World. Inspired by real-world locations, Galaxy’s Edge transports attendees to a galaxy far, far away.
Infused with activities, impressive Easter Eggs, and nods to the Star Wars franchise, visitors can ride Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, build a lightsaber, drink Luke’s blue milk, and socialize with droids at Oga’s Cantina. Encompassing 14 acres of land, Galaxy’s Edge enthralls visitors with the immersive experience on the planet of Batuu called Black Spire Outpost. Despite a handful of kinks, including attendance significantly lower than expected and the Rise of the Resistance ride breaking down on its opening day, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has impressed its visitors. Now, it has been revealed that Star Wars: Galaxy Edge almost had an entirely different look.
Speaking with WDW Radio, former Vice President of Walt Disney World Dan Cockerell confirmed that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge was originally set on Tatooine, Luke Skywalker and Anakin Skywalker’s home planet. Nodding to the original Star Wars trilogy, the plans to bring Galaxy’s Edge to life included the Mos Eisley Cantina, a Jedi Training Academy show, Jabba's Palace dinner show, and a Speeder Bike ride set during the Battle of Endor.
Originally slated to set up shop in the Echo Lake section of the park, the Endor/Tatooine themed land would have been constructed to lead down to Star Tours. However, then Disney CEO Bob Iger opted to keep the focus on the new installments of the Star Wars films, particularly Star Wars: The Force Awakens, and canceled Imagineers' plans for the Tatooine land.
Despite all Disney theme parks being closed amid coronavirus concerns, big plans lay ahead to immerse visitors into more film franchise experiences. These include the unveiling of a Star Wars-themed hotel called the Galactic Starcruiser, the Indiana Jones Adventure ride undergoing refurbishment, and the opening of Avengers Campus. Despite the success of Star Wars: Galaxy Edge, there have been complaints that there aren’t the live shows and characters originally promised. Perhaps a Galaxy’s Edge set on Tatooine would have been more pleasing to fans of the space opera. Overall, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge remains an enjoyable experience for visitors to Disney’s iconic theme parks.
Source: WDW Radio