Universal Studios Hollywood has found itself embroiled in a costly legal battle following a recent lawsuit filed over an incident at its iconic Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction.
A California federal jury awarded plaintiff Pamela L. Morrison $7.25 million after she was injured while attempting to disembark the ride in 2022. Damages were split into $250,000 in economic compensation and $7 million in noneconomic damages.
The Forbidden Journey’s Legacy and Controversy
The Harry Potter franchise has been one of Universal’s biggest theme park successes, with the debut of the Wizarding World at Universal Orlando Resort in 2010 arguably marking a huge turning point for the industry at large.
This immersive land became a turning point for themed entertainment, blending cutting-edge technology and detailed recreations of iconic locations from the series. Its success quickly expanded to Universal Studios Hollywood, Japan, and Beijing, and the lands remain central to the park’s strategy, attracting millions of visitors each year.
One of the most popular attractions within the Wizarding World is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. The dark ride, located within the Hogwarts Castle, was a groundbreaking feat when it opened in 2010. Combining advanced robotics, practical sets, and projection technology, the ride transports guests into the world of Harry Potter, offering high-speed action and thrilling encounters. Despite its praise, the ride has not been immune to injury claims and legal challenges over the years.
Previous Incidents and Legal Challenges
This lawsuit against Universal is not the first involving Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.
In 2024, four guests filed a lawsuit after allegedly being stranded on the ride for over an hour in 2022, leading to serious injuries. Legal filings claim that the park’s negligence left the guests in dangerous positions for an extended period. One rider, Debra Biane, claimed she required surgery due to the ordeal and suffered emotional distress.
Other incidents have also raised concerns. In 2023, a 26-year-old rider at Universal’s Islands of Adventure allegedly lost the ability to speak after the ride, while a 78-year-old guest in 2024 experienced dizziness and loss of consciousness. In 2022, Universal also faced a lawsuit after a queue divider fell on a grandmother’s hand, causing ongoing pain.
In Morrison’s case, she fell after being asked to disembark the Harry Potter ride when her safety harness failed to latch. With the lighting in the boarding area being extremely dim, she didn’t realize the platform was moving and subsequently lost her balance when she went to step onto the stationary ground.
She was subsequently hospitalized for four days, with Kruse claiming that the incident came down to “one button, five seconds, and the rest of Pamela Morrison’s life.” The lawyer also added that the reason why the ride didn’t stop for Morrison is because Universal has a goal of boarding 1,800 guests per hour and team members wanted to “keep the ride moving no matter what.”
What are your thoughts on Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey?
I haven’t had the opportunity to experience this particular ride. From the sound of things, it seems Universal needs to address the safety issues before allowing future guests to ride.