NEWS: Universal Orlando Files Permit to DEMOLISH a Popular Roller Coaster

Is it time to say goodbye to a popular Universal Orlando roller coaster? A new development suggests that might be the case.

Universal entrance

Saying things are changing at Universal Orlando soon is an understatement. As we get ready for the brand-new Epic Universe theme park to open on May 22nd, 2025, we can’t help but get excited about all the new lands and attractions coming to the resort. With that said, change doesn’t exclusively mean additions. In fact, Universal Orlando recently filed a permit that more than suggests the demolition of one of its roller coasters.

Universal submitted a permit with the South Florida Water Management District on December 23rd, 2024 indicates Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is about to be demolished.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket

The permit mentions a project that would “remove existing attraction and replace with proposed attraction” while submitted plans highlight proposed site landscape and structural modifications. Work would include all of the area around the ride, as well as some backstage areas. Some new buildings were also proposed in the plans.

©Universal

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit opened in August 2009 at Universal Studios Florida and has been an iconic landmark of the park since, so its demolition will likely be met with some backlash.

The coaster itself features a 90-degree-angled climb as well as a non-inverted loop and is a fan-favorite thanks to its unique audio experience. Riders can choose from a list of songs to set the mood for their ride, although the list has shrunk in recent years.

Rip Ride Rockit

So what will Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit give way to? That remains unclear. Rumors have been circulating of the ride’s demise for quite some time but nothing was concrete until now. As such, there’s nothing concrete to report on what will occupy the space once the ride is demolished.

Lift hill

Over in the actual Hollywood on the West Coast, Universal Studios Hollywood has been building the new Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift roller coaster — slated to open in 2026 — that will boast innovative ride features such as drifting vehicles, launches, and inversions along the hills of the theme park’s Starway escalator. Could this ride come over to Universal Studios Florida?

As we previously mentioned, nothing has been announced, but it’s clear Universal is still very much in the roller coaster business, despite removing Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.

Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift construction

Right now it’s all speculation until Universal actually announces something. What can be said though is that it looks like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit is actually on borrowed time.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

We’ll continue to keep you posted as soon as more news is revealed, so stay tuned right here at AllEars for the latest Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and Universal Orlando updates!