Watch CBS News

Trump Will Have Speaking Role In Disney's Hall Of Presidents

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

LAKE BUENA VISTA (AP) -- Disney has confirmed that an animatronic version of President Donald Trump will have a speaking role at its Hall of Presidents attraction at Walt Disney World in Florida.

The company is pushing back against reports that Trump's figure wouldn't have a speaking part in the show, which features figures of all U.S. presidents.

Disney Parks editorial content director Thomas Smith writes in a blog post that Disney is working closely with the White House on Trump's words and a recording session with the president has been scheduled.

The attraction closed in January so Trump's figure could be added. Smith says it will reopen late this year with a new show and upgraded theater.

A Change.org petition circulated online calling for Mr. Trump to not have a speaking role in the Disney park feature. It garnered over 14,000 signatures in support.

The attraction was last closed in 2009 to add then-President Obama, who has a speaking role. Abraham Lincoln and George Washington also have speeches in the exhibit.

Obama recorded his speech for the "Hall of Presidents" in the White House.

(© Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.