999 happy haunts now 1,000?
On the heel of news that Ryan Gosling could star in Guillermo del Toro’s Haunted Mansion, Disneyland in California made a massive announcement.
Tweeted out mere minutes ago, Disneyland teased the return of The Hatbox Ghost, which was part of the original Haunted Mansion attraction back in 1969. Now, 46 years later, he’s making his return this coming May!
The Hatbox Ghost was removed because of an alleged issues with his effect, which would see his head vanish and then appear inside a box, as show in the above image. Below, Wiki explains the issue.
The Hatbox Ghost was installed inside The Haunted Mansion and in place for cast member (park employee) previews on the nights of August 7 and 8, 1969.Almost immediately, it became apparent that the effect had failed, as ambient light in the attraction’s attic scene prevented the specter’s face from disappearing fully, despite the turning off of its designated spotlight. Attempts were made to remedy technical problems, but the effect wasn’t convincing enough, and the ghost was decommissioned after a few months. … While it is unknown what became of The Hatbox Ghost, there are speculations as to his fate. … Because the Hatbox Ghost featured prominently in artwork and narration for popular Haunted Mansion record albums sold for many years at Disney parks, and because Disney continues to market the ghost’s image, he has never been forgotten and has become somewhat of a legend, complete with cult following. Many fans of the ride wish to see him returned and have gone so far as to circulate petitions calling for the figure’s restoration.
There’s no actual news as to how Hatbox Ghost is returning. We all hope he’s being re-inserted into the actual attraction, as opposed to just some park gimmick as part of the park’s 60th anniversary diamond celebration. Also, do you think Disneyland will ever change the ride’s finale to match the new one at Disney World launched back in 2011?
The question becomes, were there originally 1,000 happy haunts before the removal of The Hatbox Ghost? Or, will his return bring it back to the iconic 999 promised by the ride’s ominous navigator?
