Deathly Afraid Necklaces and the Origins of Dueling Dragons (Ep. 66)

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with another packed episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, diving into the latest Universal news, fan reports, and theme park history. Highlights this week include: Firsthand impressions of Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, thanks to listener John T. – from house walkthroughs to surprisingly short wait times. A look at Universal Orlando’s new “Deathly Afraid” necklace option at Halloween Horror Nights and the debate it’s sparked online. News from the West Coast, including the Slash Bar pop-up at HHN Hollywood and the arrival of Chainsaw Man. Updates on the new Museum of Antiquities Tribute Store packed with Easter eggs for longtime fans. Breaking down NBC’s Inside the Worlds of Epic Universe TV special and Steven Spielberg’s surprising connection to Dark Universe. Jim kicks off a new multi-part feature on the history of Dueling Dragons and whether Disney’s never-built Beastly Kingdom really influenced Universal’s iconic coaster. As always, Jim and Eric mix news, rumors, and personal stories—including Eric sending his son off to college and Jim recalling how he helped break Disney’s Animal Kingdom news decades ago. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices