Revenue for Universal’s theme parks has declined for another quarter, parent company Comcast reported in its financial results for Q3 of this year.
For the quarter ended 30 September, Comcast reported $2.28 billion in revenue at its theme parks division, a 5.3 percent decline compared to the third quarter of last year. Lower revenue at the US parks was driven by lower attendance.
In an earnings call, Comcast chief financial officer Jason Armstrong said: “Our view is there was both a pull forward of demand that we clearly saw in 2022 and 2023, which were record years for the theme parks and beyond our expectations, as well as the new attraction pipeline, which is light this year but building toward a substantial pipeline next year.”
Universal’s epic plans
Despite the lower attendance and revenue, Comcast chairman and CEO Brian Roberts noted the opening of Universal Epic Universe in May 2025. He said it will be “the most ambitious and technologically sophisticated theme park ever created”.
Comcast president Mike Cavanagh also said Epic Universe will be “the most groundbreaking park ever introduced in the United States”.
He added: “This park will offer a level of immersion that is unmatched, transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping experiences.”
Epic Universe, he said, “will build on everything we’ve excelled at in the present and in the past and make it even better by infusing iconic storytelling with cutting-edge technology in five fully themed worlds”.
Armstrong noted the opening of new Universal attractions including Donkey Kong Country at Universal Studios Japan, the new Fast & Furious coaster at Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, and Universal Kids Resort in Texas.
“We remain bullish about the long-term trajectory of parks,” he said.
Images courtesy of Universal
