From Fame to Ban: Influencers’ Missteps at Disney Parks
The influencer industry, worth a staggering $24 billion in 2024, is still a hot topic of debate. While most creators produce entertaining content that harms no one and forms a legitimate career, some people remain critical, especially when it involves Disney Parks.
Over the years, a few influencers have pushed the boundaries for content, disrupting other guests or violating Disney’s rules. Disney, however, is quick to address such behavior, banning several creators who crossed the line.
Jacob Markovich’s Short-Lived Disney Visit
In May 2023, YouTuber Jacob Markovich proudly uploaded a video titled, “I got banned from Disneyworld in 5 minutes!” Despite the misspelling and filming at Disneyland Resort, the video shows Markovich impersonating park security, a major no-no.
Approaching random guests, pretending to be a security guard, and using offensive language quickly caught the attention of Disney cast members. They issued a trespass admonishment, and despite his apology, Markovich was officially kicked out of Disneyland.
Jack Doherty’s Mysterious Ban
Earlier this year, YouTuber Jack Doherty, known for his pranks and stunts, shared a video accepting his ban from Disney theme parks. While the exact reasons remain unclear, Doherty’s disruptive behavior and past incidents likely contributed.
Doherty was also banned from Universal Orlando Resort the next day, making future Orlando vacations quite dull for him.
Streamer N3on’s Dramatic Exit
Last year, streamer N3on was kicked out of Walt Disney World Resort for using professional filming equipment without permission. Refusing to leave, he became disrespectful to management, security, and eventually the police, who escorted him off the property.
The entire incident was live-streamed to 100,000 viewers. N3on’s controversial exit included calling Disney names and joking about flying to Disneyland, where he isn’t banned yet.
Nik’s Unusual Ban
TikToker Nik, aka JudyHoppsLovr69, was banned from Walt Disney World Resort due to his extreme love for the Zootopia character Judy Hopps. His TikTok account is filled with declarations of adoration, including inappropriate content and threats to steal a Judy Hopps animatronic.
Disney’s security issued a trespass warning, banning him indefinitely from the property.
Jason Jeter’s Misconduct
In 2021, TikToker Jason Jeter was banned and fired from Walt Disney World Resort for various disruptive actions, including drinking from non-drinking water sources and trespassing in restricted areas.
Despite attempts to have his ban lifted, including contacting the former CEO Bob Chapek, Jeter remains banned from Disney World.
Christopher Martin’s Merchandise Mishap
Christopher Martin and his wife Hannah received a lifetime ban from Walt Disney World Resort after selling unauthorized Disney merchandise. Their business misrepresented itself as affiliated with Disney, leading to a 700-page cease-and-desist order.
Ignoring the order, the Martins continued their activities until Disney shut down their Facebook group and issued a lawsuit.
Pete Z’s Illegal Park Entry
YouTuber Pete Z attempted to break into Disneyland in 2023, entering through a cast member entrance and rummaging through trash cans for food. Security eventually found him hiding in a bathroom and issued a lifetime ban.
Will TikTok Be Banned at Disney?
In light of these incidents, some have called for a total ban on social media platforms like TikTok at Disney Parks. This follows a national debate on banning the app, with legislation passing to force its sale or face a ban.
Whether this ban will impact content creation at Disney parks remains to be seen. The government’s concerns are much broader than just content creators at theme parks
