Yvette Nicole Brown Is A Disney World Regular—Here’s What She Never Skips

Yvette Nicole Brown has always worn her love for Disney proudly. She’s done voice work on films like Inside Out 2 and Zootopia, been in live-action projects as well, and even hosted events for the company, from D23 Expo to actual shows on Disney+ like Big Fib. But now it’s official official. She’s been immortalized on an epic ride at Walt Disney World. Your fave can be found at the reimagind Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, which features The Muppets, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World in Orlando.

She joins a star-studded list of people who lent their talents, and voices too, to the revamped ride, including Jennifer Hudson, actor John Stamos and Kelly Clarkson. She makes a cameo while you wait in line for the ride, appearing alongside iconic Muppets, including Miss Piggy. We caught up with Brown at the park, after being flipped upside down on a preview of the ride, where she shared her excitement about being part of this moment, as well as her must-see, do, and eat list when at Disney any time of year, but especially during the summer.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, starring the Muppets, is officially open for a wild ride this Cool Kids Summer at Walt Disney World in Orlando.

ESSENCE: How does it feel to be part of a Disney attraction?

Yvette Nicole Brown: I’m still pinching myself, honestly. I’ve always said, how cool would it be to be an actor, a lover of Disney, and get to be part of one of these rides forever? To be the one to usher people through? I don’t even know how to process that I’ve been allowed to do this.

How did the opportunity come about?

I’m a fan and friend of Disney, and I’ve done a couple of things with the Muppets before, so I know the puppeteers. And then Tony from Disney, my wonderful Tony, he just called me and said, “Would you like to do it?” Who says no to that? And then you add the Muppets on top of it, and it’s a whole other thing.

What can fans expect to see you doing in the ride?

I have two little vignettes in the queue, and I do eventually make it to the concert, so that’s the good news! I’m working with Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Pepe, and the Rats.

How do you prepare to work with Miss Piggy?

You learn your lines and hope you don’t let her down. That’s really all you can do. [laughs]

You’re a lifelong Muppets fan. Who’s your favorite character?

Gonzo, actually. His puppeteer is Dave Goelz, and Gonzo sings this song called “I’m Going to Go Back There Someday.” Next to “Rainbow Connection,” it’s my favorite Muppet song. I love that he’s different. He’s an individual, and he encourages everyone to be themselves. Let your freak flag fly.

What are your Disney World must-dos when you visit?

You have to do Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. You have to do Guardians of the Galaxy. And of course Galaxy’s Edge. All the Star Wars goodness. I could go on for days.

And what are you eating? It’s too hot not to be nourished!

Dole Whip, always. My husband Tony has to get a turkey leg. And there’s a little Ronto Wrap in Galaxy’s Edge at Star Wars — it’s a delicious sausage wrapped in pita bread. I’m going there as soon as we’re done with this interview!