“it’s a small world” to add new Richard Sherman lyrics

One of Disney’s most iconic attractions, “it’s a small world,” is set to receive a significant and heartwarming update. A brand-new verse, penned by the late, legendary songwriter Richard Sherman, will be incorporated into the ride’s finale scene at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, beginning July 17, 2025.

The “it’s a small world” song, a timeless classic first introduced at the 1964 New York World’s Fair and later at Disneyland in 1966, has captivated generations with its message of global unity. The original verses were famously written by the prolific Sherman Brothers, Richard and Robert Sherman. Before his passing, Richard Sherman composed this new verse, which is being described as his final gift to Disney.

The addition to the finale scene aims to enhance the attraction’s enduring legacy and reinforce the song’s profound meaning. Gregg Sherman, son of Richard Sherman, explained that the new verse is intended to “celebrate that there’s more that unites us than divides us, and reinforce the message of that song.”

The finale scene lyrics are as follows:

Mother earth unites us in heart and mind
And the love we give makes us humankind
Through our vast wondrous land
When we stand hand in hand
It’s a small world after all.