Frozen II's Olaf Scene Rewritten for Young Viewers

Josh Gad revealed that Olaf's original death scene in Frozen II was so emotionally intense that it had to be rewritten after test screenings left young viewers traumatized. In his memoir In Gad We Trust, Gad describes the initial scene as 'brutal,' admitting he struggled to record it due to its emotional weight. Director Jennifer Lee and the creative team decided to revise the scene, ensuring Olaf's temporary death was less frightening and more comforting for children. The revised scene still involved Olaf fading away but ended with Elsa reviving him, highlighting the theme of 'water has memory.' This change was crucial to maintain the film's appeal to its young audience, as even Disney CEO Bob Iger commented on Olaf's childlike relatability. The adjustments ensured Frozen II's success, continuing the legacy of its highly acclaimed predecessor.