Disney fans are split over whether a new Haunted Mansion photo effect is a clever bit of fun or a step too far.
A PhotoPass test at Walt Disney World places guests inside a Haunted Mansion-themed image treatment, turning them into ghostly figures or the attraction's eerie busts. But for many fans, the real issue is whether generative AI is being used behind the scenes.
Here's what to know
According to WDW News Today, Disney has been testing multiple Haunted Mansion Magic Shot variations at Magic Kingdom. Images shared by Amanda Wilding of Second Story Travel show the bust version, which changes guests' faces to resemble the singing figures from the ride's graveyard scene. Dustin Smith, a member of the Walt Disney World Tips and Tricks group, posted photos showing his family transformed into ghosts.
Reactions have been mixed. Supporters see the effect as a new kind of attraction-themed souvenir, while critics say the bust portraits, in particular, have the recognizable look of AI-generated art rather than a traditional park photo overlay.
Criticism was especially sharp from X user Themountainking (@Themountainkin1), who wrote that the effect marred the legacy of Haunted Mansion designers, stating, "It's disrespectful to Marc Davis and Claude Coats's legacy, guests' intelligence, the environment and devalues the brand!"
I have no words… https://t.co/Qr3qGCk5eF
— Themountainking (@Themountainkin1) September 28, 2026
More background
Disney brought on former Character.AI CEO Karandeep Anand as its first Chief Technology Officer this fall, and it has issued cease-and-desist notices to AI companies, including Character.AI, to protect its intellectual property.
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Still, as WDWNT noted, it has upheld a pro-AI stance. This is also not the first time Disney has taken heat over apparent AI use in its parks.
The outlet identified artwork in Madame Leota's Somewhere Beyond (Disneyland's Haunted Mansion gift shop) as generative AI. After online backlash grew, the piece was removed, and Imagineer Kim Irvine described it as a "temporary placeholder."
WDWNT also pointed back to complaints over Oogie Boogie Bash posters that fans believed were made with generative AI. Another example it cited was a Disneyland Paris presentation for Disney Adventure World that used an AI voice unable to pronounce "Rapunzel."
Where can I learn more?
The blowback over Disney's Haunted Mansion photo effect reflects greater backlash to AI-altered images and brand decisions, a tension examined in these articles.
• At a shopping mall, Disney fans recoiled at mind-boggling image-altering AI used on holiday characters.
• Online, viewers said disturbing AI fake movie posters were deceptive enough to feel terrifying.
• A startup's AI app that promises to revive dead loved ones sparked immediate outrage.
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