Episode Details

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey look at the past and future of Universal’s Fast & Furious presence in the parks, just as Universal Studios Hollywood prepares to debut its new Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster. Along the way, they discuss the franchise’s surprising influence on theme park attractions, why the original tram-tour finale is closing, and what the next era of Universal expansion looks like - from Osaka to Texas. They also break down several recent Universal news stories, including a new parade at Universal Studios Japan and the latest developments at Universal Orlando. 

NEWS

• Universal Studios Japan announces a 25th anniversary parade featuring Pokémon, Mario Kart characters, Sesame Street, and the Minions.

• Universal Orlando removes its self-service ticket kiosks as mobile ticketing becomes the preferred guest option.

• Luke Combs’ Category 10 live-music venue is coming to Universal CityWalk Orlando.

• New concept footage highlights Jurassic World and SpongeBob lands at the upcoming Universal Kids Resort in Texas.

• Pteranodon Flyers at Islands of Adventure will remain closed through May 14, 2026.

FEATURE

• A preview of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift and the new ride vehicles debuting at Universal Studios Hollywood.

• How the Fast & Furious film series evolved from street racing into a global blockbuster franchise.

• The behind-the-scenes challenge of completing Furious 7 after the death of Paul Walker.

• Why the Fast & Furious Supercharged tram-tour finale is closing and what comes next for the attraction space.

HOSTS

• Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com

• Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: StrongMindedAgency.com

FOLLOW

• Facebook: JimHillMediaNews
• Instagram: JimHillMedia
• TikTok: JimHillMedia

SUPPORT

Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia.

PRODUCTION CREDITS

Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency

SPONSOR

Planning your next Universal or Disney trip? Let the experts at Be Our Guest Vacations handle the details. As a Platinum-level earmarked travel agency, they specialize in planning unforgettable vacations to Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Disney destinations, cruises, and more.

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