Universal’s Islands of Adventure has reopened the Skull Island: Reign of Kong attraction, but without its iconic King Kong animatronic. The massive figure was damaged during routine maintenance and is currently undergoing repairs, leaving a black curtain in place of the giant ape at the ride’s finale. While Universal Orlando confirmed the damage occurred during scheduled upkeep, they have not disclosed specific details about the extent of the repair work or when the animatronic will return. Guests who have ridden since reopening describe a noticeable absence of the physical Kong figure that typically serves as the attraction’s centerpiece after several projection-heavy scenes. There is currently no announced timeline for when King Kong will be restored to his full glory, though Universal continues to monitor progress on the repairs.
Key Points:
- The Skull Island: Reign of Kong attraction reopened on Friday, September 18 at Universal’s Islands of Adventure.
- The King Kong animatronic sustained damage during routine maintenance and is currently being repaired.
- A black curtain is covering the area where the giant Kong figure normally appears at the ride’s finale.
- Universal Orlando has not confirmed rumors that a fire caused the damage to the animatronic.
- There is currently no announced timeline for when King Kong will be restored to his full glory.