Fans Thrilled by ‘Fantastic’ New Harry Potter Ride at Universal Studios

There’s an exciting new ride being introduced to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando. Fans are buzzing with anticipation, especially due to the return of Dame Imelda Staunton as the notorious villain, Dolores Umbridge.

In a recently shared YouTube video, the creative masterminds behind “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” divulged several key aspects of the forthcoming attraction, which is scheduled to premiere alongside the rest of the Epic Universe in 2025.

The ride will transport guests through the Floo Passage to the British Ministry of Magic for Umbridge’s trial, offering an exploration of the Ministry’s various departments along the journey.

Visitors will experience an “unbelievable” atrium space featuring a restored Fountain of Magical Brethren statue, flying memos, and an exquisitely enchanted weather ceiling.

A mix of recognizable and brand-new scenes includes a locker room where Harry, Ron, and Neville are training to become Aurors, as well as Umbridge’s compact but “extremely ornate” pink-and-gold office, where visitors can meet Higgledy, Umbridge’s former house elf.

Anisha Vyas Burgos, Assistant Director of Projects for Universal Creative, praised Staunton’s performance as Umbridge, calling it “absolutely brilliant.”

“She got to take Umbridge to the extreme,” Burgos remarked.

The comment section of the video indicates that fans are more than eager for this magical adventure, particularly looking forward to their close encounter with Umbridge.

“Merlin’s Beard, when this attraction was first announced, I didn’t expect Dame Imelda Staunton to actually return as Umbridge herself. But now, it’s pretty obvious that you can’t do a ride this big without her and it looks like she’s still got it after all these years. Plus, I’m glad they didn’t go the CGI route with her. It was my initial thought, but happy to be proven wrong,” one fan wrote.

“The CHILLS I got when I saw Dolores Umbridge reprising her role! Still the DARK DIVA I remember,” added another.

“Looks fantastic! Can’t wait to see how it rides. That queue looks awesome, too!” commented a third enthusiastic Potterhead.

Source: Particle News