Disney Parks' & Lucusfilms' Captain EO Grand Opening (1986)

Captain EO was such a unique production that it was the first theme park attraction to have a televised premiere. It aired on NBC and was hosted by 80's TV stars Patrick Duffy and Justine Bateman. Duffy was known at the time for prime time soap operas like Dallas and Knotts Landing. Bateman was a co-star on the sitcom Family Ties. This special features interviews and musical performances.

Captain EO was the first theme park 4D experience using motion a control film ride simulator with real effects in the theater. The more famous attraction to use this technology, Star Tours, came the following year. Captain EO was the most expensive film ever made at that time. Starring Michael Jackson, produced by George Lucas, and directed by Francis Ford Coppola this was a major production at the time. The film ran from 1986-1997.

Original air date September 20, 1986

Posted for historical purposes. This channel is not affiliated with the Walt Disney Company.