Epic Universe: Stars attend grand opening and talk with FOX 35

ORLANDO, Fla. - Universal Orlando has officially opened its highly anticipated Epic Universe, a 1,300-acre theme park and one of the largest theme park expansions in Florida’s history. On Wednesday, celebrities walked the blue carpet and fans lined up in droves to mark one of the biggest expansions in Florida theme park history.

Who Showed Up?:

Composer Danny Elfman attended the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando. Best known for scoring films like Batman, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Spider-Man, Elfman toured the new theme park and met with fans during the celebration.

Danny Elfman attends Epic Universe grand opening in Orlando

Legendary composer Danny Elfman made a surprise appearance at the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando. Best known for scoring films like Batman, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Spider-Man, Elfman toured the new theme park and met with fans during the celebration.

What would a Universal Orlando theme park opening be without the famed Harry Potter stars James and Oliver Phelps, known for playing the Weasley twins?

James and Oliver Phelps attend Epic Universe grand opening

Harry Potter stars James and Oliver Phelps, known for playing the Weasley twins, attended the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando. The actors explored the park’s attractions and greeted fans, celebrating the next chapter of immersive entertainment at Universal.

Warwick Davis, known for his roles in Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Willow, appeared at the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando. 

Actor Warwick Davis attends Epic Universe grand opening

Warwick Davis, known for his roles in Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Willow, appeared at the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando. The beloved actor toured the park and greeted fans during the star-studded celebration.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins made an appearance on the blue carpet. 

NFL quarterback Kirk Cousins attends Epic Universe opening

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins made an appearance at the grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Orlando. Cousins toured the new theme park, posed for photos with fans, and joined in the celebration of the highly anticipated entertainment destination.

Oscar-winning special effects artist Rick Baker joined the celebration at Universal’s Epic Universe grand opening in Orlando. 

Legendary makeup artist Rick Baker attends Epic Universe grand opening

Oscar-winning special effects artist Rick Baker joined the celebration at Universal’s Epic Universe grand opening in Orlando. Known for his work on films like An American Werewolf in London and Men in Black, Baker explored the park and connected with fans of his iconic movie monsters.

Former WWE professional wrestler Cody Rhodes was in attendance, along with his wife, Brandi. 

Wrestler Cody Rhodes attends Epic Universe opening

Brandi Rhodes and Cody Rhodes attend the grand opening of the much-anticipated fourth theme park, Universal Epic Universe.

Below is an image gallery of other notable celebrities who walked the blue carpet on Wednesday night.

The project took several years of planning, design, and construction. Though slowed by the COVID-19 pandemic, development resumed full pace and culminated in this week’s grand unveiling.

Local perspective:

Locally, the opening of Epic Universe is being hailed as a generational event. It cements Orlando's status as the global epicenter for theme park innovation and tourism. Many residents and tourists alike see the park as a boost to the local economy and a source of pride.

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