Universal Orlando Announces Updated on Iconic Horror Make-Up Show Shutdown

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Universal Orlando Resort has issued a new update on the future of one of its most beloved live entertainment offerings, easing immediate concerns that the Horror Make-Up Show was about to disappear sooner than expected. After reports surfaced that the long-running attraction would close in early January 2026 for a reimagining, Universal has now confirmed that those plans have shifted.For fans of the show, this announcement lands as both a relief and a new source of uncertainty. The show isn’t closing just yet—but its future remains in transition.Credit: Aditya Vyas, UnsplashClosure Plans Have Officially ChangedJust one week ago, reports indicated that the Horror Make-Up Show would stage its final performance after Saturday, January 4, 2026. That timeline suggested a relatively quick shutdown ahead of a refreshed version of the show slated to open later in the year. Universal had previously described that updated experience as one that would blend classic and modern horror properties while maintaining the irreverent, comedy-forward tone that audiences love.Now, Universal says that schedule is no longer accurate.The resort confirmed that the planned closure has been delayed and that the current version of the show will remain open for the time being. No new closure date has been announced.Universal Shares New Statement on the Horror Make-Up ShowOn December 30, Universal provided an official statement to WDWNT clarifying the shift in plans, confirming that the attraction will continue operating while its future is reassessed. The company stated:“The timeline for the planned enhancements and temporary closure of the Horror Make-Up Show has shifted, and the current show will remain open at this time. Additional details about plans for the Horror Make-Up Show will be shared at a later time.”Notably, Universal did not offer any explanation for why the timeline changed, nor did it provide a revised window for when the closure might eventually take place.Why the Horror Make-Up Show Matters to FansThe Horror Make-Up Show has been a staple of Universal Studios Florida for decades. Located inside the Pantages Theater in the park’s Hollywood section, the attraction combines behind-the-scenes movie magic with audience participation and self-aware humor.After walking through a lobby packed with props and memorabilia, guests are brought into a mock make-up studio where two hosts recreate special effects techniques inspired by Universal horror films. The show’s format has evolved over the years, but its tone—playful, chaotic, and intentionally over-the-top—has stayed consistent.Credit: UniversalFor many guests, especially longtime Universal fans, the show represents a link to the park’s roots as a movie-making destination rather than a park driven purely by thrill rides.What a Reimagined Version Could BringUniversal has previously hinted that a future version of the show would incorporate both classic and modern horror properties. While no franchises have been officially named, speculation has focused on newer horror brands that align with Universal’s growing reputation in the genre.At present, the most recent footage featured in the show comes from The Mummy (2017), underscoring how much newer content could reshape the experience. Still, Universal has not confirmed which properties—if any—will appear when the show eventually receives its update.What Happens NextFor now, the biggest takeaway is that the Horror Make-Up Show is sticking around longer than expected. Guests visiting Universal Studios Florida in early 2026 will still be able to experience the current version of the attraction.That said, Universal has made it clear that enhancements are still planned. The closure hasn’t been canceled—it’s simply been postponed. Until additional details are shared, the future of the show remains unresolved.Fans who appreciate the attraction in its current form may want to make time for it sooner rather than later. As Universal has shown time and again, major changes don’t always arrive with long countdowns.For now, the curtain stays up—but for how long remains to be seen.The post Universal Orlando Announces Updated on Iconic Horror Make-Up Show Shutdown appeared first on Inside the Magic.