Few attractions are as iconic—and as controversial—as Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean. But for some Disneyland Resort guests, their recent experience on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride wasn’t about immersive storytelling or pirate adventures; it was about an abrupt halt to the fun. The beloved attraction experienced a temporary shutdown, requiring an evacuation and sparking conversation about the ride’s ongoing controversies.
The Pirates of the Caribbean Ride Controversy
Although Pirates of the Caribbean is a fan-favorite attraction at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, it has been no stranger to backlash in recent years. From its connection to actor Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow to changes in the infamous bride auction scene, the ride has long stirred debate. In 2018, Walt Disney Imagineers transformed the auction scene, turning animatronic brides into fierce female pirates.
While some Disney Parks fans applauded the update, others criticized the decision, arguing that it erased some of the ride’s nostalgic charm. However, some critics have gone even further. During a viral moment in 2023, some women described the ride as “rapey” due to the behavior of male animatronics toward female park guests. Others called for the attraction to be “canceled” altogether, reigniting debate about the ride’s place in the modern era.
A Breakdown at Disneyland Park
Despite its controversies, Pirates of the Caribbean continues to draw thousands of guests daily. Like any popular Disney Park attraction, it occasionally experiences technical issues. TikToker @laurenbridetobe recently shared her experience evacuating from the New Orleans Square version of the ride:
@laurenbridetobe Stuck on Pirates of the Caribbean and had to evacuate out up the stairs of the ride! 🏴☠️✨ #piratesofthecaribbean #stuckonride #disneyland
In the video, Disney cast members directed guests to climb out of their boats onto emergency evacuation walkways. As the guests exited the attraction, @laurenbridetobe captured footage of a Captain Jack Sparrow animatronic, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the ride’s inner workings. The evacuation route led guests up a steep staircase to the final hill of the ride before they returned to the exit platform.
It’s unclear what caused the breakdown, but Disneyland Resort quickly restored operations, allowing Pirates of the Caribbean to reopen.
Have you evacuated a Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort ride? Share your story with Disney Dining in the comments.
California is loaded with pukish liberal SNOWFLAKES!!! Go hide you pussies, where are you? It’s called Pirates of The Caribbean not PANZIES!!! Thank GOD I live in Florida!! GO TRUMP!!! Go DESANTIS!!
James, didn’t “Woke Disney” make the SAME changes in the Auction scene in Disney World’s “Pirates” ride ???
Go woke go broke Disney! The majority do not want these changes. The loud few are ruining classic things based on their fragile feelings. I’m sure the people complaining aren’t even really “offended” by the “rapey” pirates or the auction scene. These people just have nothing better to do than try and get something changed or canceled so that they feel that their meaningless lives have some value based on fake internet points and virtual pats on the back.
What is find hilariously pathetic is how you somehow feel as though you “own” this attraction because you saw it once. And now decades later you’re acting like one of the kids from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, offended that Disney is updating the story to change with the times. How dare the Disney Company alters THEIR property, following the original premise of Walt himself, who said that the park would never truly be finished, but constantly evolving.
Some cultures evolve. The rest go extinct. Which are you?
James, didn’t “Woke Disney” make the SAME changes in the Auction scene in Disney World’s “Pirates” ride ???
We recently went to Disneyland. We were shocked at the condition of the park. It was run down, and the upkeep on some of the stationary props were super dusty. They looked like they had been abandoned. We also noticed torn seats at a few locations. With all the expensive costs to get in and eating, I know they are not short of money. whoever is managing this park, needs to wake up, and address these issues.
First off I am from California and I’m NOT a Snowflake. I’ve been going to Disneyland since 1955. If, so called @some or there” are offended by Pirates, here’s a thought “…DONT ride it!! If you’re so offended then stay home, I highly doubt Disney will miss you. So what exactly are the number of people that are considered “some or all”other” groups? I just bet it’s a minority group and they are trying to dictate what rides are to be changed or cancelled. I have been going to Disneyland for a LONG time and I can tell you I have NEVER felt uneasy on any ride. People shouldn’t wear their feelings so far out on their sleeves.
I don’t understand why Disney Executives are listening to a small few. Leave Disney parks as Walt envisioned. Leave the rides we grew up with and loved as they were. At some point it will be unrecognizable and not worth going. I want my memories to come to life when I visit. I want to share those beloved memories with my grandchildren. Finally I love Johnny Depp and wish that he and Disney can make peace for themselves and for all that have a love for both.