Duffy the Disney Bear leaving EPCOT
The days of Duffy the Disney Bear greeting guests at Epcot are numbered, Walt Disney World officials have confirmed.
Duffy has never really hit it off with Walt Disney World guests and so he's going to be replaced by Daisy Duck. The last day that the Duffy character will have meet and greet duties at his World Showcase stop will be Oct. 3.
The change is part of Disney World's regular review of its entertainment options, a spokeswoman said Thursday. Duffy-related merchandise, including stuffed bears, will continue to be sold at various locations at Disney World, she said.
Duffy, who typically is decked out in sailor gear, was introduced to Epcot in October 2010 after being a hit with guests at Tokyo DisneySea. Duffy's backstory: He was hand-sewn by Minnie Mouse as a gift to Mickey Mouse. He was designed to be Mickey's companion during his travels.
When Duffy moved into Epcot, Disney said that the bear's travel experience made him a good fit for Epcot and World Showcase, which is "all about discovery," said Dan Cockerell, then the vice president of Epcot.
