Ever have a bad experience with a Character?

[linklewtt]

have any of you guys ever had a bad experience with a character? give us details!

[carlosbrown45]

oh yea pluto! dlr and wdw. everytime we see him he always leaves. he ran away litterly ran away from a crowd of little toddlers i was like uhhh wats goin on here :icon_roll

[Masquerade]

Not that I recall. Though, I do remember I was annoyed with Brer Bear because he kept putting his hands all over my face.

[linklewtt]

haha...do you ever think that maybe the people playing the characters are a little upset cuz of the heat or they are just tired and then they like act weird towards you. they kinda annoy you maybe on purpose? do you think that happens sometimes?

[simba_one]

Not a bad experience but last Summer we had just come off the Jungle Cruise and we were standing by the little shelter thing in Adventureland (right outside of JC) looking at maps deciding where to go next when all of a sudden the Genie and Aladdin come up to us and need to get to where we are to do a M&G. So we had to move.

Extremely boring story but my only experience with a character at the DLR... so far!!! :icon_lol:

[dreaming]

We took our 4 yr old to the Princess Breakfast at the Plaza Inn (he loved all the Princesses) & Jasmine came to our table, grabbed his autograph book & signed it & started to walk off & never said one word to him.........I said, excuse me, could we get a picture please? She came back & put on the biggest fake smile ever.........we now think of this particular Jasmine as a b.... (well you know the rest) other than that, our encounters with the 50 or so more characters we saw on our trip were awesome!!

[Mickey Man]

I've basically only had good times with characters, especially with tigger, everytime I see him its he acts like the coolest character ever

[TopCat8]

Wow. I haven't been on this site for a really long time. It feels weird to be typing about DL again. I have only had good encounters with the characters at DL. All of the real people characters have been nice and talked to me when I was little. I have seen many characters in my time, and they all have been nice.

[SurfedUpDane]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem.

[ShrunkenNed]

The only bad experiences I've had with characters have been with rude, obnoxious park visitors.

Oh trust me, they're characters alright!

The DL characters have always been fabulous, even the Chip and Dale who wanted to abduct my wife! They made a nice little show of it with lots of people watching. I guess some people could get annoyed by that. I thought it was a blast to be part of our own little show at Disneyland!

[Director_Guy]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem.



That was the creepiest thing I've ever heard.....

[Disneyland_Wolf]

The cast member who dresses up as Mr. Smee is psychic and he knows stuff that will happen.

500th post!

[fantasmic_boy122]

THAT is creepy!

[Masquerade]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem.

that is the scariest thing I have ever heard in my life. I actually had to turn around to make sure Smee wasn't behind me.

[linklewtt]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem.

your story is like creepy, but I really don't think that characters are allowed on the loading deck lol. and why would Smee leave THROUGH the crowd, when the exit is just the other way? also a derailing that potentially hurt a guest definiteyl would have been on the news, right, and nothing has happened that bad on Big Thunder except the death awhile back.

with that said, interesting story though. it was entertaining.

[Masquerade]

Gosh, let everyone have their fun, linklewtt. Such a killjoy. :biggrin:

[linklewtt]

lol i'm sorry, you're right...k wow that was creepy!

[Mickey Man]

well are you talking about the september 2003 accident on BTMR. I think it happened on the 7th or somewhere around there. that is reallllly creepy. smee knows best I guess.

[Masquerade]

oh yeah, I know; I'm still scared. It's a bit suspicious though that the story started out as a annoying person, but ended with a character with super powers. It's also a bit odd that no where in the story was the injured rider at the end mentioned.
I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
He never turned around, so how, exactly, would he know who told him to move up? Hmm...

-whooshes around to make sure smee isn't there-

He's not. phew.

[fantasmic_boy122]

or maybe smee made the accident happen like in that CSI show

[simba_one]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem.
If that really is true you should have told a CM straight away. That would have freaked me out soo much!! :eek:

We took our 4 yr old to the Princess Breakfast at the Plaza Inn (he loved all the Princesses) & Jasmine came to our table, grabbed his autograph book & signed it & started to walk off & never said one word to him.........I said, excuse me, could we get a picture please? She came back & put on the biggest fake smile ever.........we now think of this particular Jasmine as a b.... (well you know the rest) other than that, our encounters with the 50 or so more characters we saw on our trip were awesome!!
Sounds like Jasmine has a major attitude problem!!! :icon_roll You should have complained as that's just uncalled for.

[DaynaTheDisneyDork]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem.


Hate to kill the 'creepyness' of this post, but this is really, really...ha. Wow I can't even say it, not appropriate on this lovely site. But to start, this is a rediculous post. Seeing as it's put into the storyline of a writer with somewhat of an imagination and rather cunning words, I can't see it in fact anymore than I can see Snow White with blonde hair. I, myself, am a writer and given the fact I've read and written many 'stories', I can tell this is more of a little tale wished to creep out others then actually tell of your encounter. If you really wanted to let us know about this experiance, you would have said a simple 'I was waiting in line for Big Thunder and Mr. Smee came out of no-where, said this line, and freaked me out.' Of course, you could have added more words and a bit of description, but...stareing into the old west? I found myself engulfed? What is this? A little fiction to scare those into thinking you were actually there and this Mr. Smee was misplace, in a line for an attraction that obviously whispered to only you on a day that was so destructive for Disneyland? Im not saying you weren't there, you could have been, but this is too much of a 'yeah right', then a 'OMG SCARY!' for me. Sorry...but I'm not buying it.

[linklewtt]

^^ya, i agree with Dayna, but i have to admit that the story was a little intriguing, but ya it belongs on a like "freaky stories from Disneyland" thread or something...i think everyone knows that this story is a little too bizarre and does not quite make sense Dyana, but hey at least she tried lol.

but ok, let's get back to real stroies about bad experiences with characters:

This isn't a bad experience, well not that bad, but a total waste of my time! My cuz and I (we're both guys) went to Disneyland like the tuesday before last (the 6th i believe) and we were feeling great cuz it wasn't crowded at all since most kids were already in school. so we literally get right through the turnstiles into Disneyland park and there's Pluto and his CM helper making a beeline right for us. they get to us and the CM says "hey wanna play a game with Pluto?" we said ya, thinking it would be like a trivia game or something. But...it wasn't!

So Pluto leads us over to one of the brick planter things in the front of the floral 50 and tells us to sit down. we do and then Pluto and the CM go to find someone else to play also. so my cuz and i wait like for 5 minutes and then we contemplate running off. but then Pluto brings over a girl and the CM tells her to sit in between us. so it's the 3 of us waiting for still yet another player, and still we have no idea what the game is!

So Pluto finally comes back with another girl, who sits on my right side. So it's my cuz, the 1st girl, me, and the 2nd girl sitting there. Then we find out what the game is, the game we had been waiting for like 10 minutes to play:

Pluto placed my cuz's hand on girl#1 and then my hand on girl #2. then the CM said, "I know declare you girlfriends and boyfriends for the whole day. You must do everything together and love each other forever." And we were like ok whatever and then we all got up and moved on. it was such a waste of time! i swear i wanted to smack that CM, not Pluto though cuz he's so darn cool! but ya that CM will fry the next time I see him...

[SurfedUpDane]

For those of you concerned about the validity of my story, check some archives. The big derailment happened on September 5th, 2003. The day of my visit. If you think I am joking, check CNN. I was one of the few people who was asked to comment on the incident. This isn't the kind of thing that is supposed to be funny. I was simply replying to a thread asking if anyone had ever had a bad experience due to an interaction with a character.

[HiddenMickey]

I've only had great experiences with characters too.. I wish characters would be more lively with older guests as well as kids tho.

[linklewtt]

For those of you concerned about the validity of my story, check some archives. The big derailment happened on September 5th, 2003. The day of my visit. If you think I am joking, check CNN. I was one of the few people who was asked to comment on the incident. This isn't the kind of thing that is supposed to be funny. I was simply replying to a thread asking if anyone had ever had a bad experience due to an interaction with a character.
it's not that we're doubting that perhaps you were there or even that a derailment happened, it;s the fact that Smee was there as well. That is so unbelievable because characters are NEVER on the platform of a ride like Big Thunder and i also find it hard to believe that he would go through the crowd to make his exit. i dunno, Smee being there on the platform seems very very odd and that's what makes me doubt your story. but hey you told it well!

[snowjaz]

oh this one time i was next to flick and i accidently turned around and hit him on accident! He was like ooohhhh.

[Disneyland Princess]

a few trips ago, i was at disneyland with my friend and her family, and one of the kids was going to get his picture taken with Sully from Monsters Inc. Right as the pic was about to be taken, sully mutters from underneath his costume, "great, another cell phone picture,FU**!" the poor kid was so upset, and the look on his face for the picture was somewhat horrified. Does sully think that layer of fur is sound-proof?
--------------------------------------Double post added here.
I've only had great experiences with characters too.. I wish characters would be more lively with older guests as well as kids tho.
I totally agree. Us older disney enthusiasts need just as much attention as the little ones! im so sad when im at a character meal and get passed up for the table of 4 year olds next to me. Im thinking, "hey, where's MY autograph and picture!?" :)

[Lozzie]

I havent had any bad experiences either. There was a time where Goofy wouldnt leave me alone and scared me once lol. It was in DLRP and me and my fiance were in Cafe Mickey and the characters were walking around. I was sat on a big seat and the kitchen area was open planned and behind me and Goofy was hanging around there. He came behind me and he banged real hard on the seat and i squealed and jumped lol. And he stood there for ages then he started playing with my hair. This went on for a while, i think he was waiting for Mickey to finish seeing some little kids in there aswell. So goofy decided he would come and stroke my hair for a while lol

[disneyroxxx]

at disneyworld, i was just walking along in frontierland, i had this big black sweater on, sunglasses, i was basically invisible. i heard some cheering, and talking behind me, but i didnt really notice. then i feel this big furry paw grab my hand, and im suddenly yanked into a circle surrounded by tourists. then i notice, im dancing with one of three country bears. and every other bear was dancing with a 5 year old, and i was 13 at the time. i kept trying to leave, but that bear just wouldnt let go, so i had to dane some country ho-down dance, and everyone was clapping, and laughing, and my dad was just cracking up, not helping me. i was completely humiliated. but its a fun story to tell. i dont know why that castmember chose me, when there were several little kids in the crowd, eager to dance. in the end it made me laugh. i dont think i have ever had a bad experience with a character. my little sister starts screaming and crying if one tries to come to her. but it is pretty funny. except, for her, of course.

[mhendrix]

I know that when I was at DCA the first week of Oct. 06 that the female that played the wife of the couple from TOT 1939, was rather angry that these kids wouldn't leave her alone.

She and her 'husband' both splited ways and began making their way to different backstage exits.

Well these kids kept following the female asking her for autographs and pictures. (I assumed at this time that DLR/DCA characters are hourly and in California, there are some major restrictions, like not hitting a certain hour without taking a lunch break or the company is fined thousands while you're fired by the angry company)

The female became somewhat aggressive and angry toward the kids for not leaving her alone.

I turned around and saw that the husband character was long gone backstage.

After finally ridding the kids away she began walking to a "Cast Members Only" area.

Of course, me being the jerk that I am, I quickly drew attention to her, knowing she couldn't break character.

"Hey, you don't work here, you can't go back there!"

CM's began walking towards the area and a bunch of passerby folks stopped.

The wife character got so nurveous. "Uh, I'm looking for the powder room, yah see, and I thought it was back here....uh, forgive me!" she said this out loud.

Then she walked away from the CM area and toward me into the street of Hollywood backlot.

She gave me such a dirty look and shook her head when she made eye contact.

She then walked all the way back across by TOT and entered the same CM area her husband did.

I wanted to say something again, but I'm not cruel...lol.

So maybe I'm to blame for making the bad experience?:biggrin:

[Cali Coaster]

^No. You only made the expererience better and got her to stay out longer. Actually, I commend you! Congrats for making a character get back into character!

[ghoofie]

If that really is true you should have told a CM straight away. That would have freaked me out soo much!! :eek:


Sounds like Jasmine has a major attitude problem!!! :icon_roll You should have complained as that's just uncalled for.


Pocahontas would not have done that to you.

[TimmyII]

If any of you had a bad experience with a character, all I can say is, it wasn't me! :)

[RankoAnime]

You know, I don't think I've EVER had a bad experience with a character. Of course, I only go for the atmosphere characters and it's hard to have a bad experience when they can't talk and they have the same smile plastered on their faces. Even when they're in a rush to get backstage, they'll still give me a high five as they walk by. I love it!

Although, now that I think about it...There was this one time in Adventureland when I saw Aladdin and Jasmine. They were just standing around complaining about school, their jobs, people in their lives, etc. I went up to them and asked if I could get a picture with them. They seemed a little irked that I interrupted them and then as soon as I got my pic, they went back to complaining. It wasn't really a bad experience, but it's the only slightly negative story I have regarding characters (which is a good thing!).

[crystaltink]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem.


Wow! That's insane. I believe it, but that's crazy. Glad you weren't hurt!

[magoo2525]

I've had a few bad experiences with CM's, but not many.

I one I will always remember was my 5 yr. old daughters first visit to DLR. She saw Woody and wanted to get an autograph, so we stood in line for about 5 minutes, and when it was finally her time, Woody's "Handler" pushed her aside and said "OK! Woody's Got To Go!!". I replied "Excuse Me! there was no need to push my Daughter", to which the CM replied in his fake cherry tone "I'm sorry, but he really has to go!". The cool thing was that Woody went to my daughter, hugged her, and signed her book! When we walked away, she said "I like Woody!!...he should hug that guy too!"

[Oldhotelguy]

Maybe she was supposed to be like that BUT....Cruella De Ville was very mean. Seems like that would be the perfect character to play because you can be a jerk and get away with it. Not that I blame the CMs who work as characters. People are really rude and pushy. I remember once Pluto being mad because everybody kept calling him Goofy. One guy was doing it on purpose because he knew he was getting to him. Some people, I'll tell ya'.


www.magicalhotel.com

[crystaltink]

I haven't myself no. But my mom said when she took me and I was about 4 or so, that we were all having our picture taken with Tigger and he pinched her in the butt. That wasn't bad as much as it was funny!

[adrianne]

I dunno...butt-pinching seems to me to be something that's okay ONLY if it's wanted and welcome; I'l be very uncomfortable if a stranger did that to me!

[Adampants]

The only negative experience I had was when I went to the Blue Bayou last year for my Birthday. My best friend Becci asked the waitress if they had mac and cheese (she's extremely picky, but nice about it) at which the waitress replied 'I'm sorry- we're all adults here.' What a B****! Not only that, she was TOTALLY evil to us the rest of our lunch. I got the last laugh when I 'forgot' to tip her. If you're going to be in the service indusrty, you better learn how to be at the least, tolerable.....

That's all for now kiddos ;)

[Tigris]

I don't think I have ever had a bad experience with a charcter , but there was this one time where we waited in a huge line so my little cousin could meet Princess Aurora and when she got up there , there wasn't much of anything exxcept for a hello , how are you, want to take a picture> signs her book and a bye . Also Aurora didn't look so joyful and smiles like I have seen others, I guess she was having a bad day .I think I expected more out of a princess like a hug or something for waitng like almost an hour to meet her. oh-well that's why we dine at Ariels grotto from now on.

[Disneyknight467]

According to the DisneyWay, it is forbidden for the characters wearing a masked costume to speak with the guests, sometimes this policy is forgotten...
It was September 5th back in 2003, and I was enjoying a solo trip to the park. Riding alone was something I liked to do every once in a while because it gave me the freedom of choosing what rides and when. Standing in line for my favorite attraction of all, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, I was gazing off into the old west, completely trapped in the moment. I heard a few repetitive throat-clearings from somewhere back in reality and realized the line had moved and I had not.
Walking up the wooden steps, I was only a few yards from loading and unloading area! Out of place was one fully-costumed Mr. Smee. He looked very disgruntled for some reason and was walking in the opposite direction of the flow of the line. Probably just stopping by for a photo opp I didn't think anything of it.
I was almost close enough to hear the familiar inquisition of the ride opperator "how many in your group," when I realized that Mr. Smee was starring at me. Wait a second, no he wasn't, those eyes are made of rubber, those aren't his real eyes. As he brushed past me, from the corner of my eye, trying not to be nosy, I noticed that he stopped right at my side. Before moving on, he leaned over as to adjust himself to my height. That's when, what I had first thought was my imagination, he whispered, "today is not the best day for a train ride."
I was confused, but mainly spooked. Why was a New Orleans Square/Fantasyland character way over here in Frontierland? But more importantly, why was today such a bad day for a train ride?
I left the line, still not quite sure what had just happened and why I had listened to Mr. Smee. As I rounded the corner of the attractiuon en route to Fantasyland, I heard piercing screams coming from outside line! Running to see what had happened, I found myself engulfed in a mob of onlookers clearly with the same questions I had. It was difficult to see what had happened, guests and cast members alike had swarmed the attraction. Climbing a nearby rock for a better view I was able to see what had mustered such a terrible cry of pain. The minning train had de-railed, scattering individual cars all over the place, and though difficult to make out, appeared to have tacked one guest into the seat behind him. One more look was all it took to bring me back to reality...the man in the seat was the same one who had been behind me in the line, urging me to move up.

These characters know more than they seem. The castmember most likely knew something about the incident. You should have reported it to someone official at disney like a castmember at a restraunt. Whenever I go there they always seem very nice. Oh yeah and I believe you, I went to CNN and it said so. It was reported on the 7th of october which was a sunday, and said it happened on Friday the 5th. I hope never to see a castmember say something so stupid or scary like that to a kid.

[Tigris]

^ Wow that Mr. Smee thing is probably the most scariest I've heard !! You should have tottaly reported it to an disney offical , the Mr . Smee CM might have been involved? Well I don't know, that's what happens when you watch to much TV!!

[Disneyknight467]

Maybe she was supposed to be like that BUT....Cruella De Ville was very mean. Seems like that would be the perfect character to play because you can be a jerk and get away with it. Not that I blame the CMs who work as characters. People are really rude and pushy. I remember once Pluto being mad because everybody kept calling him Goofy. One guy was doing it on purpose because he knew he was getting to him. Some people, I'll tell ya'.


www.magicalhotel.com

Ditto! I was sitting on the curb of Hollywood Pictures Backlot and she said "$100 to sit on the curb!" And then at the Drawn into magic! show, I was going to get a picture and autograph with Sorcerer Mickey but she told everyone, "Do you hear that? Mickey's leaving now! He doesn't love you anymore!". Me and my friend both wondered how many little kids hearts she broke that day. An embarassing time not horrible time I had at disneyland was when I mixed up Chip with Dale lol. I said something like "Hey I saw your brother somewhere over there!" I was only a few years old and one of the two (I can't remember) was laughing and I didn't know why though. It makes me laugh still today!:biggrin:

[Palm Desert Babe]

I haven't had a really bad experience like some people. We were in Goofy's kitchen and Sleeping Beauty totally ignored us. She never came to our table, she just walked by. That made me mad.

[Imjustpeachy]

Cinderella....=( she happens to always leave when I come around. Everyone else is awesome, especially Ariel =) When I went this summer, Cinderella left right as I was walking towards her! Aurora, Belle and Snow White were super nice [and all other cast members] When I was there last summer cinderella REJECTED ME! :frown: You know when there isn't aline and a crowds forms around them and you have parents ushering and shoving their kids in front of you to take a picture an what not? Well, there I was waiting patiently as my boyfriend had my camera and was ready to take a picture, I allowed a whole bunch of kids to go so that maybe that would filter the crowd...boy was I wrong. Belle was with cinderella as well as her fairy godmother. I decided to just go in like everyone else. Belle and Cinderella told me to go back and took pictures with other little kids. I was hurt! I know A lot of little girls are all cute and smaller so they get the "priority" which is to me, wrong. I was a little girl once who absolutely loved these princesses too you know, I just happened to be 20 years old and wanting a signature, and a picture like everyone else. I do feel as though some characters age discriminate..:( which is not cool. Never-the-less, I have more good stories than bad! :biggrin:

[Legend_S]

Hmmm, only one bad experience thus far... I was with my sister and a friend and we just finished riding BLAB and as we were heading out of Tomorrowland in front of the Astro Orbiter, we saw Belle. She locked eyes with me for a couple seconds and was only like 7 feet away from me, I just smiled and waved, no smile in return, nothing. She just turned her head and ignored me. It was funny though I just said "Ahhahahaha--GAH that princess!" my sister and my friend laughed at my comment, geez I gave her a smile... she could have at least moved a couple muscles in her face to return it... so lazy lol.

[RankoAnime]

Belle and Cinderella told me to go back and took pictures with other little kids. I was hurt! I know A lot of little girls are all cute and smaller so they get the "priority" which is to me, wrong. I was a little girl once who absolutely loved these princesses too you know, I just happened to be 20 years old and wanting a signature, and a picture like everyone else. I do feel as though some characters age discriminate..:( which is not cool. Never-the-less, I have more good stories than bad! :biggrin:

Aww, that's so sad! I do agree with the age discrimination thing though. I haven't had a bad experience like that. But sometimes when I go up to the character, they kind of hesitate like they didn't expect someone as old as me to want a picture and signature from them. They kind of pause "........." look me up and down and just shake my hand or give me a high five or something. I usually have to ask for hugs.

[Chatterbug]

I feel slightly better knowing I am not the only one that feels a wee bit rejected by a Character.. I wanted a photo with Goofy on my last trip. I liked the idea of puting a photo in my album with him Titled "Just Goofin Around in Disneyland". But I felt like he was walking away taking photos with young kids here and there along the way, to where ever he was headed maybe a break? I wasn't to upset but did feel a little dissapointed.. :( Maybe next time and with some friends would be better so it could say "Just Goofin around with my Friends in Disneyland" That would be even better! :biggrin:

[Oldhotelguy]

I think what needs to be remembered is, these "characters" are real human beings subject to good and bad days and good and bad moods. I think overall you can say they do a remarkable job given the demands of the public and considering how rude and insensitive some of the public can be. Thier problem is, they can satisfy 99% of the people yet all they hear about is that one dissatisfied person. I say, try walking a mile in their shoes so you would know what it is truly like. I know, I know...they are warned about what to expect before they accept the job. I would also say that the rare instances on when I have seen less than cordial relations from a character are in the overwhelming minority of times as compared to when myself or my children have been thrilled and made happy with the experience of communicating with a character.


www.magicalhotel.com

[TimmyII]

I think what needs to be remembered is, these "characters" are real human beings subject to good and bad days and good and bad moods. I think overall you can say they do a remarkable job given the demands of the public and considering how rude and insensitive some of the public can be. Thier problem is, they can satisfy 99% of the people yet all they hear about is that one dissatisfied person. I say, try walking a mile in their shoes so you would know what it is truly like.


Also remember that MOST of the time, the Fab Five characters have doubles (usually on busy days). That's why they need to get in on time so their double can come OUT on time. If you miss one of the Fab Five, just hang out for a few minutes and they'll be right back out! There is a lot people don't realize about character work but there's nothing we can do. We have rules to follow just like others, so don't fret, the characters are there ALL DAY LONG!!!

[chelsealela]

The only negative experience I had was when I went to the Blue Bayou last year for my Birthday. My best friend Becci asked the waitress if they had mac and cheese (she's extremely picky, but nice about it) at which the waitress replied 'I'm sorry- we're all adults here.' What a B****! Not only that, she was TOTALLY evil to us the rest of our lunch. I got the last laugh when I 'forgot' to tip her. If you're going to be in the service indusrty, you better learn how to be at the least, tolerable.....

That's all for now kiddos ;)

My God, I hate that! Mac and cheese is my favorite food. Yeah that was way beyond weird, I would have said something back! Are you sure she is an adult herself cause thats just such a babish thing to say.

[Medusa Man]

I have to say my opinion greatly differs from your guys.
I am happy for the age discrimination. I am 14 and not interested in having whinny the pooh come say hi. Thats just me though. The characters are humans to an extent. After working for disney I hear that you are never the same ;).

[RankoAnime]

I have to say my opinion greatly differs from your guys.
I am happy for the age discrimination. I am 14 and not interested in having whinny the pooh come say hi. Thats just me though. The characters are humans to an extent. After working for disney I hear that you are never the same ;).

Okay, you have to understand that there is a difference between you and the other people who WANT to have their picture taken with a character. When we wait to see a character and that character doesn't want anything to do with us just because of our age, that is unfair age discrimination. It's like if you stood in line for your favorite ride and the CM said "You're too old to ride this!"

[magoo2525]

I have to say my opinion greatly differs from your guys.
I am happy for the age discrimination. I am 14 and not interested in having whinny the pooh come say hi. Thats just me though. The characters are humans to an extent. After working for disney I hear that you are never the same ;).

It's different when they come up to you because you're not trying to meet them.

When you're waiting in line to meet a character and they snub you because you're "older", that shouldn't make a difference! I want to enjoy the atmosphere just as much as my 2, 8, or 14 year old does! If that includes wanting to take a picture with Pooh, if I'm waiting patiently in line, so be it!

[adrianne]

...sometimes when I go up to the character, they kind of hesitate like they didn't expect someone as old as me to want a picture and signature from them. They kind of pause "........."

I stood in line to have my photo taken with Aurora and Prince Phillip. When I got to the front of the line, I asked "excuse me, Your Highness, may I have a photo taken with just your Prince?" (I wanted to tell the girlds back home that I had met a "prince" of a guy at Disneyland). Aurora actually seemed offended, like I had dissed her personally! Prince Phillip was charming and very nice, as a prince should be, but I couldn't get over Aurora's snit...Like having a 30-something not want her pic as well was a big deal...

[RankoAnime]

^^ Aurora - "OMG, I'm so incredibly beautiful beyond compare. How could you NOT want a picture with gorgeous me?!"

I've never had a situation like that before, mostly because I can never find two characters together at the same time. The only pair I've ever seen together are Chip & Dale. On my Lilo & Stitch pictures, I had to actually ask them at the breakfast if they could pose together with me.

[Medusa Man]

Of course imagine how awkward it must be for a cast member to uh have a photo with someone over the age of ten. They're focus is on little kids who havent had the experience before. Not 30 year old adults who just "dont want to grow up". I dont know if that makes sense. I do not mean it in an offensive way by the way. But I am sure they are trained to greet the kids not adults.

[chelsealela]

so sad...I hate growing up...I don't know why some teens my age want to be older, it stinks.

[Medusa Man]

I can think of a few reasons ;)

Driving.

Moving out lol....
Its human nature to look forward when your young then look back when your older..

[emma15677]

Are these bad experiences reported as complaints so they can improve next time?

[goofytone]

well whadda ya gonna do!

[TimmyII]

Of course imagine how awkward it must be for a cast member to uh have a photo with someone over the age of ten. They're focus is on little kids who havent had the experience before. Not 30 year old adults who just "dont want to grow up". I dont know if that makes sense. I do not mean it in an offensive way by the way. But I am sure they are trained to greet the kids not adults.

NOT TRUE AT ALL! If we focused on JUST the kids, the FAMILY experience would be lost and there would be no reason for families to return. EVERY guest is important and if you dismiss one, you dismiss 1,000..because they tell ten friends, who tell ten friends, who tell ten friends.

When I worked there I enjoyed entertaining adults just as much as kids. The best thing is to make adults laugh...then THEY have a reason to come back other than just bringing their kids!

[tinkerbell.24]

Like Walt Disney said once "To all who come to this happy place: Welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past...and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future." Disneyland is a land for all ages no matter how old you are so characters shouldn't discriminate people who are older than kids. What would an elder lady or man feel if they are being reject, and yes I understand that they are all humans like us but the have to take in consideration that they would not like to be treated the same way they treat their guests. That is what I think but then again we all have different thoughts

[RankoAnime]

I feel slightly better knowing I am not the only one that feels a wee bit rejected by a Character.. I wanted a photo with Goofy on my last trip. I liked the idea of puting a photo in my album with him Titled "Just Goofin Around in Disneyland". But I felt like he was walking away taking photos with young kids here and there along the way, to where ever he was headed maybe a break? I wasn't to upset but did feel a little dissapointed.. :( Maybe next time and with some friends would be better so it could say "Just Goofin around with my Friends in Disneyland" That would be even better! :biggrin:

You know, I think I saw the same Goofy on Saturday! Normally when a character is walking towards me trying to go backstage, I hold my hand up for a high five and they usually give me a high five as they dash by. But this Goofy didn't. Then I had my mom stand several feet in front of us so she could get a shot of both of us as I walked next to him. But then he sped up, pulling away from me, then went up to some little kids and stopped for pics/autographs. When I went up to him again, he walked away, gave a kid a kiss and then went backstage. It wasn't that big of a deal, especially because Goofy isn't one of my favorites, but I just thought I'd mention it!

[ilovedogs]

Yes i did have a bad experiance with a disneyland character. tweedle dee and tweedle dum were standing right behind me and they took my hat so i was chasing after them trying to get my hat back and I was really mad!

[Maleficent's Lover]

I must say that wasn't a bad experience... I think they were REALLY in character!!!!!!!! Although, personal space can be an issue with some....

[TimmyII]

Yes i did have a bad experiance with a disneyland character. tweedle dee and tweedle dum were standing right behind me and they took my hat so i was chasing after them trying to get my hat back and I was really mad!

When was this? If it was 1996 or 1997, it might have been me! ;)

[magoo2525]

Shame on you Timmy!!:tongue:

[TimmyII]

Shame on you Timmy!!:tongue:

I stole people's hats all the time! It was GREAT fun! But the best was being in the Tweedles because I could actually run around the restaurant (Plaza Inn).

[magoo2525]

I stole people's hats all the time! It was GREAT fun! But the best was being in the Tweedles because I could actually run around the restaurant (Plaza Inn).

That sounds like it was so much fun!!

[TimmyII]

That sounds like it was so much fun!!

It was! And I was lucky enough to have my mother and grandmother come down and video tape me working! It's really fun to watch yourself as a Disney Character, I tell you that!

[fluffyslippers]

On a trip to DL in Aug 1997 I was posing for a pic with Tigger and after the pic was taken and I turned to walk away he grabbed my butt. When I spun around he put his hands on his face like OMG and then waved.

When I took my kids multiple times for the 50th anniversary, there was a Chip at the Grand Californian Storytellers Cafe that kept coming over to my son (who was clearly freaked out and crying because of him) and kept touching him. Koda then followed behind poking his fish at my son. I was not amused and our waitress finally said "ok you two that's enough!" I've never had any other bad experience...that one was enough!

[DisneyFanatic13]

I was asking a character to get his autograph. I think it was Chip or Dale, but anyway, I asked him, but he was talking to one of the cast members and he had to go somewhere.

[kimballw]

I took my kids the end of September. We were at Toon Town, and my kids went up to get Goofy's autograph. Goofy and his handler were to busy flirting with a couple of girls, and walked by with the girls in hand.

[Mickeysgirl]

so sad...I hate growing up...I don't know why some teens my age want to be older, it stinks.
^^ Man i totally agree!!! i hate growing up!! i dont know why kids want to, your only young once! LIVE IT UP!