Dec. 2, 2025

The Case for Butterbeer: How Universal Won the Sip Heard ’Round the World (Ep. 7)

The Case for Butterbeer: How Universal Won the Sip Heard ’Round the World (Ep. 7)

In this week’s episode of The Case For, Jim and Chris dive deep into the foamy, sugary mystery of Butterbeer – from its first mention in Prisoner of Azkaban to its billion-calorie domination of Universal’s theme parks. Along the way, they track the near-miss Disney deal, J.K. Rowling’s taste-testing power, and exactly why Len Testa is currently horizontal. It’s a sweet, strange, and slightly sticky journey through theme park history.

FEATURE
• How Butterbeer evolved from J.K. Rowling’s books to real-world theme park phenomenon
• Disney’s early plans for a Harry Potter mini-land – and how the deal slipped through their fingers
• Universal’s long development process, the top-secret taste test in Scotland, and why the drink became a runaway hit
• The many forms of Butterbeer across the Wizarding World, from frozen to fudge to the notorious cream puff

HOSTS
Jim Hill – IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
Chris Cox – IG: @magiccox | X: @bigcox | Website: magiccox.com

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SUPPORT
Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia.

PRODUCTION CREDITS
Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey – Strong Minded Agency

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