After weeks of speculation in the wake of Disney's massive layoffs it has been confirmed that rockstar Imagineer Joe Rohde will be parting ways with Disney after 40 years in the industry. His last day with the company will be January 4th, 2021. Theme park fans will doubtlessly know Rohde as the legendary Imagineer behind Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, Pandora: The World of AVATAR, the Aulani resort in Hawaii, Guardians of the Galaxy-Mission: Breakout at Disney California Adventure, and countless other iconic projects. 

Rohde confirmed the news via his personal Instagram, saying in part that "Every day of my life since then has been a learning experience. I’m very glad to have had that opportunity, and proud of the work that has been done, not just by me, but by all my fellow Imagineers, and especially those who worked by my side over the decades" You can view the full post here. 

Walt Disney Imagineering also released a statement via their Instagram account, saying: “We can’t thank Joe enough for his infectious passion, being an incredible teacher and mentor, and for inspiring generations of Disney Imagineers and guests from around the world".