A former Disney cast member recently revealed the reason behind his termination from Disneyland Resort, sharing the video that led to his firing. The TikTok video, which quickly went viral, showed the former employee filming behind-the-scenes footage of cleaning crews and vehicles operating on Main Street, U.S.A., after the park had closed for the night.
The former Disney cast member, who goes by the TikTok handle @offeruphustle, posted the video on Wednesday. The video has racked up nearly 500,000 views, sparking a debate online about the decision to fire the employee and the rules surrounding filming at Disney parks.
@offeruphustle The video that got me FIRED. Sucks cuz I was days away from quitting and doing OfferUp full time and running my laser business.They beat me to the punch 😂😂 #disneyland
Like all Disney parks, Disneyland Resort has strict policies regarding filming in backstage areas—zones that are off-limits to guests. While Main Street, U.S.A. is considered an “onstage” area during park hours, it becomes a backstage area once guests leave for the day. Disney also prohibits cast members from sharing footage that could reveal behind-the-scenes operations, such as cleaning protocols, which are not intended to be seen by the public.
The video drew mixed reactions. Many commenters criticized the former cast member for violating Disney’s rules.
“We’re kinda told not to record anything on stage or backstage,” said @vchavarin, another former Disney cast member.
“That’s literally the biggest thing they told us,” @caleconomist agreed. “No phones out on the clock as it will lead to termination.”
In defense of his actions, the former Disneyland Resort cast member explained that he intended to highlight the hard work employees do behind the scenes.
“Ppl would say Disney don’t wash the floors everyday. Well I was the one washing the floors everyday except Wednesday/Thursday rain or shine,” he stated.
Some viewers sympathized with the former employee, expressing disbelief at his firing.
“That’s a crazy reason to get fired,” @tiktokuser41797 commented. “As a magic key holder I appreciate seeing all the hard work involved after hours.”
“Why would you get fired?” @dancebear60 asked. “You’re taking the most beautiful video of Disneyland. It looks so much better than it does when it’s packed full of people.”
Disneyland Resort has not publicly commented on the situation.
Do you agree with Disneyland Resort’s decision to fire this former Disney cast member? Share your opinion with Disney Dining in the comments!
The problem is that people no longer think they have to follow rules. If the rule says not to do it, don’t do it or else. It doesn’t matter if you work in a fast food restaurant, or a $150.00/hour job. Follow the bloody rules! They’re there for a reason.