Mom With Kids After RunDisney; Mickey Fantasia Hat; Donald Duck Hat; Goofy Hat
  • On Mar 2, 2011
    Aurora from FL Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hey Zanna! I was wondering if you could fill me in on some of the history with Duffy the Bear. Who he is and where he comes from and Why he belongs to Mickey.

    Well hello Aurora and thank you for asking me this question! I am a bit of a Duffy fan so I'd love to answer! I actually wrote a few posts about this on my blog covering Duffy's history and his popularity in Japan. Duffy actually started as The Disney Bear, I have heard as early as the 90's. That's when I first purchased one for my now 12-year-old son. Back then the bear was a little bigger and much fuzzier. He still had the Mickey head-shaped face and Mickey head on his paws and behind. He also came in different colors, white, shades of brown, even colors like blue, pink and purple. The corresponding meet and greet character also made appearances at the annual Teddy Bear Weekends that would take place at Walt Disney World (but he didn't wear an outfit then!). At one point he came with a little story book as well, I think after they stopped making him different colors.

    Later, in Japan (at Tokyo DisneySea), Duffy was created by Minnie Mouse for Mickey to keep him company on his long cruises across the sea. Mickey put the bear in a duffel bag and the name "Duffy" was born. Duffy took off in Japan and is now wildly popular. Duffy merchandise and costumes can be seen all over Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. In addition, his friend, Shellie Mae is available there. (No word yet as to whether Shellie Mae will come here to America.)

    Disney wanted to share Duffy with us over here, so the Disney bear we knew became Duffy. Slightly different in style, but still the same basic bear. Now Duffy is available all over Walt Disney World with costumes available for every country in Epcot, special holiday Duffy bears already in costume, even special Buzz Lightyear and Woody costumes. You can also get your picture taken with Duffy right in front of the World Traders shop at the entrance to World Showcase.

    I hope this answers your question! Have a great day!
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Meet the Panelist: Suzannah, Florida

I'm Suzannah, a former cast member, former travel agent & lifelong Disney fan! Now a mom of 3, I'm ready to help you plan your Walt Disney World Vacation. As a Florida resident I'm always visiting the Parks & Resorts to see new things! Learn More About Suzannah

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