Investigation by YouTuber Reveals Reasons Behind Closure of Disney World’s Star Wars Hotel After 18 Months

A four-hour YouTube video investigating the sudden closure of Walt Disney World Resort’s Star Wars-themed hotel and live-action roleplay experience has sparked a frenzy online, captivating audiences both within and outside the Disney fan community.

YouTube content creator Jenny Nicholson, known for her in-depth analysis of theme parks and Star Wars, shared her experience of staying at the Galactic Starcruiser, a two-day immersive adventure that cost over $6,000 for two guests. The hotel, which opened in March 2022, closed its doors just 18 months later, leaving many fans questioning its high price tag and marketing strategy.

Nicholson’s video, which has garnered nearly 3 million views in just four days, delves into the exorbitant cost of the experience, equating it to $2 per person, per minute. She criticized Disney for shifting from offering complimentary perks to selling expensive add-ons, ultimately leading to the demise of the Galactic Starcruiser.

The video has received widespread attention, with popular YouTuber Casey Neistat praising Nicholson’s analysis as a valuable case study for theme hotels and amusement parks. Despite some dissenting opinions from Disney vloggers and attendees who enjoyed the experience, Nicholson’s detailed walkthrough of the hotel highlighted various shortcomings, including underwhelming activities and additional costs for basic amenities.

As the debate rages on, Disney has defended the Galactic Starcruiser as a groundbreaking project that paved the way for future immersive experiences. However, Nicholson’s critique has struck a chord with many who feel that the high price tag did not align with the overall quality of the experience, signaling a shift in Disney’s approach to guest offerings.