A recent TikTok video from a visitor at Universal Studios Orlando has sparked outrage and controversy after the user posted footage of themselves crossing a partition in the Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts ride queue to slap an animatronic goblin. The video, which has since gone viral, was captioned with the words: “I was escorted out shortly after.”
Visitor Films Rule-Break
In the video, the visitor can be seen stepping past the designated barriers meant to keep guests at a safe distance from the ride’s animatronics and props. After crossing the partition, they slap one of the goblin animatronics, an iconic figure from the Harry Potter series, which is located in the ride’s queue. The act of touching or interacting with the ride’s detailed animatronics is strictly prohibited for safety and maintenance reasons.
The visitor’s actions have been met with widespread condemnation, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, where hundreds of Universal fans have criticized the behavior. Many fans were shocked by the blatant disregard for the park’s rules and the potential damage that could have been caused to the delicate animatronics, which are carefully crafted to maintain an immersive experience for guests.
One commenter on the video wrote, “Good!!!!! You should be banned for life!!!” echoing the sentiments of many who felt that the individual’s actions were not only disrespectful but could also negatively affect the guest experience for others. Another user added, “People like you ruin it for others. I hope you got a lifetime ban.”
@caseylouis777 i was escorted out shortly after #universal #gringottsbank
A Disrespectful Video
Universal Studios Orlando is known for its attention to detail in creating immersive environments for guests, especially within the Harry Potter attractions, where every prop, animatronic, and element is meticulously designed to bring the Wizarding World to life.
The goblin animatronics in the Gringotts bank scene, which are part of the ride queue, are particularly beloved by fans for their lifelike movements and detailed craftsmanship. Interfering with these figures could result in damage, and the act of physically interacting with them is against Universal’s strict policies, which are in place to protect both the integrity of the attraction and the safety of guests.
Following the incident, the visitor claimed in the TikTok video that they were escorted out of the park by security shortly after the incident. Universal Studios has not publicly commented on the specifics of the incident, but it is likely that the visitor’s behavior violated the park’s guest conduct policies, which include rules about respecting ride displays and maintaining a safe distance from animatronics.
The backlash surrounding the incident has raised broader questions about guest behavior in theme parks. While Universal Studios and other theme parks prioritize creating immersive and engaging experiences for visitors, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the importance of respecting both the attractions and the rules that help preserve the magic for all guests.
As the video continues to circulate online, Universal Studios Orlando has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its attractions and ensuring that all guests adhere to the rules designed to keep the experience enjoyable and safe. In the meantime, fans of the Harry Potter series and the Escape from Gringotts ride are left to reflect on the importance of respecting the delicate balance between fun and responsible behavior in theme park environments.
