Universal Demolishes Lost Continent as Zelda Movie Update Fuels Replacement Rumors

The concurrent clearing of the long-running Islands of Adventure land and a major Nintendo film update have sharpened unconfirmed talk that a high-profile franchise could take its place.

Overview

Universal is actively dismantling The Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure with phased closures and ongoing demolition reported this week, and the company has not announced a replacement.
Nintendo disclosed new details about its live‑action film during a Nintendo Direct on Sept. 10, 2026, saying the movie will be titled The Legend of Zelda and will not directly adapt a single game but instead draw from across the series.
The near‑simultaneous timing of the demolition and Nintendo’s announcement has intensified fan and industry speculation that a Zelda‑themed land could be a candidate for the site, though no official link has been made and this remains unconfirmed.
Other franchises — notably Pokémon and The Lord of the Rings — are frequently named as alternative possibilities in coverage, and Universal already expanded its local Nintendo presence when SUPER NINTENDO WORLD opened at Epic Universe in May 2025.
The Lost Continent opened with Islands of Adventure in 1999 and its removal ends a 27‑year run, creating a major redevelopment opportunity that could reshape guest offerings, local tourism traffic, and Universal’s partnership strategy depending on what Universal eventually announces.