Full Breakdown
Disney+ Orders Pilot for “Spaceship Earth” Series Inspired by EPCOT Ride
8/7/2026, 6:17:58 AM
Core Event
Disney+ has commissioned a pilot for a new science-fiction series titled “Spaceship Earth,” based on the EPCOT attraction. The pilot will be produced by 20th Television, written and showrun by Jason Fuchs with Michael Waldron as co-writer and executive producer. Lee Toland Krieger will direct and also serve as an executive producer. Additional executive producers are Adam Fishbach and Adam Fasullo of Anomaly Pictures. Casting is underway.
Background & Context
The EPCOT “Spaceship Earth” dark ride has been a centerpiece of Walt Disney World’s Epcot park since 1982, housed in the iconic geodesic sphere. Disney has a track record of adapting park attractions for screen projects; the most successful is the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise, which has generated over $4.5 billion worldwide. Other adaptations include “Haunted Mansion,” “Jungle Cruise,” and “Tomorrowland.”
Key Figures & Groups
- Jason Fuchs – Showrunner, writer, executive producer.
- Lee Toland Krieger – Director of the pilot, executive producer.
- Adam Fishbach – Executive producer.
- Adam Fasullo – Executive producer.
- 20th Television – Production studio.
Data & Statistics
- “Spaceship Earth” attraction has operated for more than four decades.
- “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise has earned over $4.5 billion globally.
Why It Matters
The pilot reflects Disney’s strategy of leveraging its IP library to expand Disney+ content. By turning a classic ride into a teen-drama with a time-travel premise, the company aims to draw both nostalgic adults and younger sci-fi fans. The project follows recent Disney+ pilot orders such as “The Mickey Mouse Club” reboot and adaptations of “The Last Kids on Earth” and “Aquamarine,” supporting Disney’s “digital centerpiece” approach for its streaming platform.
Official Statements & Responses
Disney+ executives said the pilot is part of a broader effort to evolve the service into a “comprehensive membership ecosystem,” a shift that CEO Josh D’Amaro linked to using customer data to drive growth. The company also announced a content-sharing partnership with TikTok to host fan-created material.
What’s Next
Disney+ will review the completed pilot before deciding on a full season. If approved, production could begin in the coming months, with a potential release in the 2027-2028 timeframe. Updates on casting and development will be reported as they become available.
