Are Disney adults really a problem? One conservative figure thinks so.
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During a recent segment on CNN’s NewsNight with Abby Phillip, Scott Jennings made headlines with his remarks about Disney adults. Jennings, a former aide to President George W. Bush and a noted conservative political strategist, suggested that adults visiting Disneyland or Disney World without children should be sent to what he referred to as “Alligator Alcatraz,” a nickname for Florida’s newly established immigrant detention center. This unusually harsh comment raised eyebrows, sparking a significant backlash across social media and beyond.
The term “Alligator Alcatraz” refers to a facility designed to house migrants awaiting legal processing. This comment resonated within the larger political discourse surrounding immigration and dissent against Disney’s evolving brand image. Jennings’ remarks were indicative of a broader sentiment within certain political circles, where Disney has increasingly become a target of criticism for perceived political correctness and “wokeness.”
Jennings: If you’re over the age of 21 and you go to Disneyland or Disneyworld and you don’t have children—straight to Alligator Alcatraz, El Salvador. pic.twitter.com/QODGX1LaGB
— Acyn (@Acyn) July 2, 2025
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Disney adults represent a unique demographic: typically couples or individuals with disposable income who embrace the magic of Disney theme parks long after their childhood. They often frequent the parks, participate in themed events, and even celebrate milestones inside the enchanted grounds. The controversy surrounding Disney adults has grown in intensity, especially online, where they are sometimes mocked or derided as overly enthusiastic fans.
This divide in perception can often be traced back to generational differences. Older generations might view visiting a theme park as an activity reserved for children, while younger adults see it as an opportunity for nostalgia and an escape from daily life. Thus, what some perceive as childish escapism, others embrace as a joyful celebration of fantasy.
In recent years, Disney has also faced significant challenges that intertwine with Jennings’ critique. One prominent conflict emerged over Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill, formally known as the Parental Rights in Education Act. This legislation stirred a legal battle between Disney and state officials, culminating in Disney losing its self-governing status in Florida. Now overseen by the newly formed Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, the parks have entered a new phase of governance that reflects shifting political tides.
Public sentiment regarding Disney has been affected by these circumstances, along with conservative backlash against Walt Disney’s inclusion of political messages in its films. Many critics argue that Disney’s recent storytelling choices, particularly in films like Turning Red and Lightyear, have strayed too far from traditional family entertainment, which adds fuel to the fire regarding their brand.
Here’s an idea: flood his social media with comments on why you are not a weirdo (his exact words) for enjoying Disney parks as an adult. Whether you are child-free, don’t have grandkids, or just enjoy going without kids, you should find his smug attitude problematic.
Already did! What a maroon. “Scott, please show me on the Mickey doll where he hurt you?” He’s just a symptom of today’s Republican party: angry and mean, desperate for a reason to go on the attack over anything that doesn’t fit his narrow little worldview.
And I will mentally dedicate my next trip to Disneyland without small children in tow to him, lol.
Remark is very rude. Before the pandemic my husband and I went to Disney World every year. Very much enjoyed. Now cannot afford to go and it has changed very much. So have the adults going that act out. I enjoy the memories of our time going. No kids or kids does not make any difference to having a great time.