Behind every unforgettable Disney experience, whether it’s a thrilling attraction, delicious dish, or heartwarming character encounter, are our talented cast members across land and sea who bring the magic to life every day. And supporting our cast totaling hundreds of thousands across the globe are our Disney Ambassadors – the friendly faces who illustrate Disney’s spirit and mission around the world.
In the coming weeks, the newest members of this international team will be selected and announced as the 2026-2027 Disney Ambassadors. While we eagerly wait for this year’s news and all of the exciting adventures ahead, let’s dive into the enchanting history of the program and the way it continues to uphold Walt’s legacy today!
What is the Disney Ambassador Program?
The one-of-a-kind team supports and represents cast members at Disney parks, resorts, and experiences around the world, serving as the ultimate cheerleaders and storytellers.
Disney Ambassadors lead and celebrate Disney cast, crew, Imagineers, and employees through major milestones of new openings and anniversaries, while also being there to recognize the magic made every day. They act as official spokespersons for their sites and are responsible for championing Disney’s commitment to their local communities around the world.
Disney Ambassadors truly embody the dedication to displaying the Disney difference in everything they do, both inside the parks and beyond.
How did the Disney Ambassador Program Begin?
The first Disney Ambassador was appointed by none other than the man who started it all, Walt Disney himself. The role originated during the 10th Anniversary celebrations at Disneyland as Walt was looking for someone to represent the resort and attend “Tencennial” events on his behalf – we can guess he had a pretty jam-packed schedule at the time!
Through the inaugural application process, Julie Reihm Casaletto, who was a Disneyland Resort tour guide from Long Beach, California, became the first-ever Disney Ambassador in 1965, setting the stage for a now decades-long legacy.
How Long has the Disney Ambassador Program Been Around?
The 70th Anniversary of Disneyland park is not the only milestone we are celebrating in 2025 – this year also marks the 60th anniversary of the Disney Ambassador Program. Since 1965, nearly 250 Disney cast members have had the honor of serving as Disney Ambassadors at destinations around the world, but it all began at The Happiest Place on Earth.
Which Disney Locations Have Ambassadors?
Each of our Disney Parks sites around the world have a team of Disney Ambassadors representing Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland, and Shanghai Disney Resort, as well as Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.
It is a worldwide family and global network meant to foster collaboration, celebrate cast members from different locations, and bring joy to fans everywhere in a way only Disney can.
How Many Ambassadors are Selected Each Term?
Every other year, a team of Disney Ambassadors are selected from an exceptional pool of candidates to serve a two-year term, which begins in January. At most parks, teams of two Ambassadors work in harmony, while Aulani has a dedicated solo Ambassador.
These “goodwill emissaries” travel to different destinations and connect with others near and far to inspire communities, celebrate the hard work of our cast members, and sprinkle some pixie dust wherever they go.
How Can I Keep up With the Latest Disney Ambassador News?
The countdown is on! Stay tuned throughout September and October as the new Disney Ambassador teams are announced right here on the Disney Parks Blog.
You can also follow along with the Ambassador teams on their respective Instagram accounts for the latest news and updates about their journeys:
