As heard on The WDW Radio Show, episode #89, for the week of October 19, 2008.

It appears as though FastPass distribution at show-based attractions has been closed as of October 1, 2008, and that this may continue through next year, depending on a number of factors, including crowd sizes. I first noticed it over a number of days at Mickey's PhilHarMagic and Stitch's Great Escape, and then found the same at Disney's Hollywood Studios with Indiana Jones and the Voyage of the Little Mermaid. When I asked a Cast Member, they told me that all of the show attractions have had the FastPass machines covered at this time. Considering the crowds were relatively light, I thought nothing of it, but it will be interesting to see if this continues. 

In addition to other entertainment cuts, rumors that character meals will be removed from the Crystal Palace buffet have been swirling. This is a fun, popular and interactive character meal that has always been a guest favorite. Known as "A Buffet with Character" even on its ornate glass sign, characters are clearly one of the motivating reasons to dine there, and hopefully this is one of those rumors that will not come true. 

Big news: I have heard from a number of reliable sources that Night Kingdom has, in fact, been put on hold and shelved, at least temporarily, and there are no plans to continue with the add-on nighttime experience at this time. But like everything in Imagineering, no good idea is ever dead, so who knows if it may come back in the future. But for now, it seems that the discussions and debates over Night Kingdom can come to an end.

Speaking of long-standing rumors, it appears as though no final decision has been made about Space Mountain going down for refurbishment next year. While some of the issues include financial considerations, the fact that such a huge attraction in Walt Disney World could be down for almost an entire year seems to have stalled the making of any formal announcement. Also, the size and scope of the refurbishment are still being considered.

If you have any rumors to report, email Lou here or leave a voicemail at the WDW Radio Show voicemail box: 206-202-4WDW (4939).