UniversalParksBlog News for October 4th, 2025
A new ride is opening today at Universal Epic Universe.
By new, I mean one that has opened in 2025. Also, this is technically a reopening.
Universal
Yeah, you know the one. No, I can’t believe it either.
Let’s discuss the decision in UniversalParksBlog News.
An Unexpected Decision
Attraction Insight
I don’t actually read much writing from other theme park sites. However, I make an exception for one person.
Tom Bricker at Disney Tourist Blog always entertains me with his insightful industry commentary.
CNN
Honestly, my opinions don’t appear to line up with his often, but that’s something else I like.
When I read his writing, I can visualize debates from a different perspective.
Epic
The other day, Bricker wrote this piece, which got my attention. He evaluated the Stardust Racers tragedy.
As part of the discussion, the author indicates that his family will travel to Orlando in December or January.
WESH
He hadn’t expected Stardust Racers to be open on either date. On this subject, we agree.
Based on conversations I’ve had with others in the industry, a lot of us thought it’d return in 2026.
Universal
Whoops. We’re all wrong. As of today, October 4th, 2025, Stardust Racers is back up and running at Epic Universe.
I’ll be as professional as possible here, but I’ll admit my bias in advance. I disagree with this decision.
Universal
Obviously, I know about the inner workings of what transpired.
None of us do, as Universal has kept that information private. Still, park officials aren’t changing the ride any, just its operations.
Universal
All that will be done differently is that Universal will change the rules, restrictions, and guidelines.
Let’s discuss all of this in detail, as it’s imperative that we speak clearly on this subject.
The Universal Announcement
Photo: UF
Karen Irwin, the President and Chief Operating Officer at Universal Orlando Resort sent this to Team Members:
In the message, Irwin reiterates that the ride functioned as intended and that Universal did nothing wrong.
As she states, “our Team Members followed procedures throughout.”
Today Show
On the subject of Universal doing nothing wrong, the COO indicates the following:
“Our extensive review was conducted working closely with local officials, and the State of Florida observed the testing and reviewed the results.
Universal
In addition, the ride system manufacturer of record and an independent, third-party roller coaster engineering expert conducted their own on-site testing and validated our findings.”
Photo: Universal
Then, Irwin indicated that the operating procedures on the attraction will change some.
“To further assist guests in determining whether they can or cannot ride an attraction, we are updating operational procedures and attraction signage to reinforce existing ride warnings and physical eligibility requirements at Stardust Racers and other rides.”
Photo: Universalparks.com
Universal hasn’t replied to media requests yet to explain what those changes are.
Since we’re publishing this on the morning of the ride’s opening, we don’t know yet.
Universal
So, that will be a part of next week’s update as we familiarize ourselves with the new operating procedures.
The family’s attorney accused Universal of blaming the victim this past week.
WESH
Realistically, this unexpected announcement about the ride’s reopening will probably cause additional friction.
I’ll add that the family indicated that Universal has made no attempt to contact them privately.
(Jeff Fusco/Comcast via AP Images)
This is twice now that Irwin has publicly expressed her condolences.
So, that’s a fascinating claim. It’s also easily provable either way. Stay tuned about that part.
Photo: Comcast NBC Universal
The other thing I’ll add is that non-paralyzed people have reported injuries on Stardust Racers, too.
Please keep that in mind when deciding whether or not to ride this roller coaster.
Universal Miscellany
Deadline
Okay, I promised you last time that we’d talk about Halloween Horror Nights in this update.
So, let’s do that! We’ll head over to Universal Studios Hollywood to view some of their Houses.
universal
As usual, the Hollywood park has received a few exclusive Houses, including a returning favorite.
Yes, Monstruos is back for 2025! Take a look at Monstruos 3: The Ghosts of Latin America:
That jump scare at the 1:10 mark is a really good one, isn’t it? And that thing looks like Khonshu from Moon Knight, too.
Credit: Universal
Someone really ought to help the woman who is being devoured, too. Don’t you think?
Since Universal Studios Hollywood added Monstruos, it’s been a real crowd-pleaser.
Universal
This year’s version is probably my favorite to date, as it feels like the House creators truly understand the concept.
Meanwhile, music fans will love this one. It’s Scarecrow: Music by Slash:
Once again, musician Slash has contributed the rockin’ soundtrack to an HHN House.
I really like the retro vibe of this one, and some of the Scarecrows remind me of Resident Evil 4, which is a very good thing.
Finally, Hollywood got a Poltergeist House this year, and it’s a lot of fun:
Why does nobody help that little girl with her face pressed against the television, though?
Universal
Honestly, HHN fans. You could show a bit more kindness to these poor souls stuck in Houses.
Okay, that’s it for today. I’ll be back next week to discuss how the roller coaster reopening went.
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Feature Photo: Universal
