Category: Universal Studios

‘Fast & Furious’ Roller Coaster Coming Soon to Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood officials confirmed plans on July 12 for a long-rumored outdoor roller coaster based on the “Fast & Furious” film franchise. In a statement, theme park officials said the ride will be “equipped with a state-of-the-art ride system uniquely created to engulf guests within the dynamic ‘Fast & Furious’ universe.” No specific details…


‘Fast and Furious’ Roller Coaster Coming to Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood officials July 12 confirmed plans for a long-rumored outdoor roller coaster based on the “Fast and Furious” film franchise. In a statement, theme park officials said the ride will be “equipped with a state-of-the-art ride system uniquely created to engulf guests within the dynamic ‘Fast and Furious’ universe.” No specific details about…


Hollywood Writers Strike Enters 3rd Week With No End in Sight

BURBANK, Calif.—Hundreds of writers across the Los Angeles area picketed at major entertainment studios again on May 17, calling for better wages and representation as the strike entered its third week—with no end in sight. The strike began on May 2 after negotiations broke down between the Writers Guild of America (WGA) and the Alliance…


Super Nintendo World Set to Open in February at Universal Studios

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif.—It’s almost time to play in the Super Nintendo World, which will open in February, Universal Studios Hollywood announced Wednesday. The newly expanded area will make its debut Feb. 17 with rides, attractions, and a restaurant. It will feature the new ride, Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, and new features and attractions in the…


Former US Military Pilot Arrested in Australia

A former U.S. Marine Corps fighter pilot has been arrested in Australia. He previously worked in China, training Chinese pilots. Australia is taking a new step to counter China in a decision to boost military spending and increase aid for Pacific countries. Uyghurs are suing the British government. Some UK companies are allegedly sourcing cotton…


Universal Studios Hollywood Introduces Electric Trams on Famed Backlot Tour

UNIVERSAL CITY (CNS) – The world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood backlot tour trams are going electric. Four electric trams have been put in circulation to carry visitors through the historic Universal backlot—the theme park’s signature attraction—officials announced on April 14. By 2025, the park plans to convert its entire fleet of 21 backlot trams from diesel-hydraulic…


Universal Studios, Six Flags Ease COVID-19 Vaccine/Testing Requirements

LOS ANGELES—Responding to concerns from the theme park industry, Los Angeles County has slightly eased its upcoming COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirement for visitors to large venues such as Six Flags Magic Mountain and Universal Studios Hollywood, but the overall mandate will remain. Under a recently enacted county Health Officer Order, all attendees and employees…


COVID-19 Vaccine/Testing Requirements Ease for Universal Studios, Six Flags

LOS ANGELES—Responding to concerns from the theme park industry, Los Angeles County has slightly eased its upcoming COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirement for visitors to large venues such as Six Flags Magic Mountain and Universal Studios Hollywood, but the overall mandate will remain. Under a recently enacted county Health Officer Order, all attendees and employees…


Nintendo Says ‘Donkey Kong’ Area to Open in Universal Studios Japan in 2024

TOKYO—Japan’s Nintendo Co Ltd said on Tuesday that a “Donkey Kong” themed expansion to its “Super Nintendo World” in the Universal Studios Japan theme park in Osaka will open in 2024. A “Super Mario” themed area opened at the park this year in a major expansion of Nintendo’s efforts to diversify its business beyond consoles….


Universal Studios Beijing Opens Amid Concerns Over China Influencing Western Entertainment

News Analysis Universal Studios inaugurated a resort in Beijing on Sept. 20, after a two-decade wait, amid concerns over the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) influence on the Western entertainment industry. The CCP aims to create a positive image of itself by influencing Hollywood through large investments and the potential of entering, or being restricted from,…