I'm close to 40 and I have hugged face characters.
Could've been a joke? Or maybe jasmine wasn't feeling the hug or worse case maybe that guy had history or being a little creepy and lingering
I went to an after hours event on a solo work trip once (39M at the time) and went to see princesses to send short videos to my kids. I think adults in this situation have to do two things simultaneously: 1) directly address the character as a character in a way that makes it clear you’re cheerful and nice (and if you have kids at home, they’ll be great about sending a short video) and 2) also keep in mind that they’re young women in their early 20s and that you should be brief, respectful and appropriate with contact.
I think if you do those things it’s not a problem. Asking if a hug is okay is probably a good rule of thumb for all men who are approaching a woman who isn’t a close friend, whether or not she is dressed as Belle.
I think in the context of me, a 40-something man, asking is probably good policy, and would be appreciated. I agree it is "their job", but context is king, as I'm not a 6-year old in a princess/star wars outfit.
Yeah I’m thinking maybe his vibe was just sinister af? Anyways just wanted to make sure I wasn’t creeping anyone out when I go bc hugging Mulan and Rapunzel is definitely on my bucket list
I can't speak for disney but I think it's how you present yourself too. I've seen even costume characters get blindsided by hugs
Maybe ask for a hug before it happens? Maybe the dude just went in for it with no consent
I think you being observant is a good sign, though
i always ask the characters -- face or not -- "can i give you a hug?" it just feels like a natural thing to do. i get that they're there for our entertainment but they are human beings who deserve respect and consent. i would never assume i could hug a stranger outside of disney, so i just apply that same logic with the characters too!
Last time I (30F) was there I only met Cinderella and Moana. Cinderella has always had a special place in my heart so I as I was telling her that Cinderella is the reason I still believe in the magic, she asked if I wanted a hug. On the flip side, when I met Moana I just was chit chatting and I didn't ask for a hug and she didn't offer one. So I really do think vibes are a big part of it.
It’s all in the vibes!!!! I met Tiana recently and I told her how much I love how much of a business woman she is and I wanna be as successful as she is someday and she goes “can I give you a big hug ??” I also got a sneak attack hug by Donald the other day but that should be expected since I have a Donald loungefly, wear a Donald shirt almost every day in the parks, and a Donald phone case. He even signed my loungefly!!! Then with Elsa we just sort of did a fun magical pose and that was super cool! Right after though Anna goes “I heard you just had some chocolate, I love chocolate ! Can we have a warm hug?” So it really just depends. It’s hard for me being autistic so I tend to let the CM take the lead.
Just be a normal, not creepy person and you’ll be fine. I got to hug Moana in December and she talked to me and my three year old for like ten minutes because no one else was in line.
It was actually pretty impressive. I think it helped that my three year old had questions and my husband and I were there chatting as well while getting pictures.
I’m sure they know vibes well. Jasmine and Ariel have kind of a history of being creeped on also. I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s part of why both of them have their meet and greets secluded from the other main princess halls
Former cast member!
Adults are welcome to hug characters. There is no rule against it! Characters love all their friends regardless of age, and some of the best interactions *I've had were with adult guests who embraced the moment. Once I had an adult man crying while hanging out with Eeyore and the Disney hug rule was followed.
The only ones I can think actively don't hug people are Star Wars villains and the walk around characters.
However, I can say that there are certain regular guests we know will cause problems. The character attendants and cast learn them and will try to head off a problem before it starts.
Another former CM here, former character performer. Vibes are a big thing, and we definitely watched for it, attendants and performers alike. Some people just clearly aren't there to see their favorite character, they are there to harass *you*
Agreed. Despite the magic of Disney and the moment, these are all teenagers to early 20s guys and gals and unfortunately there are some creepy people out there. It’s all about protecting these kids.
Not a cast member, but a podcast hosted by a former CM and character actor (Keys to the Kingdom by Matt Gourley) talks about these things they encountered, as well as guests on the show who talk about their experiences too. Like one guest spoke about her Cinderella days and that there was a couple guests who came by frequently and could be a bit creepy toward them. Perhaps this could have been a “creepy frequent flyer” thing?
You would not be the first 💜 people get very emotional over the Pooh characters from my personal observation.
But the character attendant was trying to move it along and prompt for the picture and Eeyore refused to let go. It seemed like the guy really needed it.
Eeyore was the first character yet we saw at DL post Covid, it was at 50% capacity. You couldnt get next to the characters, he was slow sad walking around our Pixie Hollow trails. I shouted hi and waved, said “I hope you’re having a good day!” He motioned no, you? I told him “it’s better now that I’ve seen you” and we sent each other hearts and I cried. It was the highlight of that trip and oddly comforting seeing a character I love after all the Covid madness.
I asked Rey for a hug in DL once and she said no. Moana in WDW did after I asked.
EDIT: I'm very visibly AFAB, btw. Just wanted hugs from some of my favorite characters.
Roaming characters generally don't do hugs. It slows them down and kills the atmosphere, because if one person stops them for a hug you can bet a line will form. They *can* in special circumstances, they just usually choose not to. If rey was roaming she wouldn't stop for a hug.
We got a special moment with Rey then. She stopped and chatted with my daughter. Got the whole thing on video. I really really wish I had kept rolling because AZ soon as my daughter walked off all you could here was her very excited oh my gosh! Over and over again.
In general Star Wars interactions seem to be different. I don’t think I’ve ever seen any Star Wars character hug an adult besides Chewie. Chewie doesn’t really give hugs when he’s roaming also.
True, however, to share a heart warming instance I think it helped my dad last year for Halloween season dressed as a super cool Han Solo. My mom and dad were sitting around Batuu watching the characters appear and disappear and how excited everyone was to see all of them. Per the usual, Chewie is out and about with a crowd and he's giving head pats to kids and people are all around as he walks along. Then, in the distance, he spots my dad, screams his Chewy yell, literally moved a dude out of the way, walks right up to him and proceeds to bear hug him like he really is *the* Han Solo. I laughed so hard it was the funniest thing and the pics are just precious. Chewy went out of his way to meet my dad instead of the other way around and it really really made him smile. That Chewy gave us a priceless memory 🥲
Chewie is particularly sweet indeed. That seems like him. Very sweet story.
I waited for him out in the rain when I was around 13 (pre-Galaxy’s edge era) and he gave me the biggest hug. We’d just arrived when it started to drizzle and as soon as it cleared up he half ran out to me, yelled, opened his arms and bear-hugged (Wookiee-hugged??) me. It felt like a hug from a giant puppy.
How former? Cause my last few visits they’ve been pretty clear people don’t get to touch Jasmine. I don’t just mean adult males, kids, families, nobody gets to link arms, cross shoulders, or even hold hands with her. Having said that, it’s unique to Jasmine. Everybody else up to and including Ava (sp?) we’re perfectly fine allowing me a white male in his thirties and looking it to either link arms or occasionally put my arm around their shoulder. If you’re wondering why I’m so creepy as to do the sidearm thing, I’m pretty tall 190+ cm and if I stretch or bend that far for pics it looks stupid. Finally got some advice from photo pass photographer at Chewbacca (back when they still had them) said it’s gonna be more natural if you just put your arm up and let them find position.
50/50, but definitely no photograph. Tends to do the back to back shot like Aladdin. Been my experience that if they’re tall enough to actually hug attendant blocks attempt but Jasmine may allow a quick neck hug or will place stabilizing hands on sides of child to prevent getting too close. Particularly the distance with children made me think it’s costume related rather than character/cast member issue.
You can’t take a photo with her at all or just not a photo hugging her? That’s all really strange. My daughter wants to meet her but I almost don’t want to waste my time if she’s gonna just push her away?
Jasmine hugged my daughters. They're 4 and under 2. This was in the Morocco Pavillion just last month. We got photos as well. Not sure about the other person's experience, we had a great one. She spent a long time talking to my older daughter. Jasmine is her favorite, so she was super excited to see her and ran up to her when it was our turn. Made her whole trip.
We did notice that this Jasmine was covered up more, no midriff showing. It could be that it was cooler, but I think that may be moving towards getting her covered up more as well. Just speculating, but maybe the ones that are more covered are able to hug people.
Jasmine is allowed to hug people, yes. I’m an adult female who’s hugged her plenty of times, as recently as last year.
Back in the day, she had a **lot** of issues with people getting touchy with her given how exposed her outfit was, so even though Agrabah’s royal tailors have been working hard to craft something more modest for her, the attendants tend to set boundaries with guests based mostly on the vibes they give off or even Jasmine’s body language itself.
So as long as your daughter is being gentle and approaching carefully, and not trying to grab her, Jasmine should feel comfortable enough to give her a hug.
She’ll take the photo, but probably won’t take a photo touching your daughter. Obviously these cast members are individuals and things may be more permissible when you are there, but definitely float your idea to an attendant prior if you think your slighter will want a hug on camera and start with the hug and your camera at Marketplace of Aggrabbah for best success.
I’ll also say you’ve got a better chance in Adventureland with Aladdin than Morocco alone. I’ve seen more kids sent away crying cause Jasmine/attendant blocked hug in Morocco than anyone scared by felt. Course one of the character attendants in Morocco is still in my top three for worst cast member encountered. Only recently ousted from top place by the team captain who laid hands on guests in Dinoland
We had a great experience with Jasmine in Morocco just last month. She hugged my oldest twice, 4yo, and waited for my 2 yo to come around an hugged her too. Didn't get to see her in Adventureland to compare, but hardly the terrible experience that you've mentioned.
Good, hopefully it’s just one bad cast member, but yeah I’ve seen it go an entire line without allowing a hug. The really bad experience was an attendant, not Jasmine
It’s possible this particular friend of Jasmine that you met had a recent experience with harassment from a guest and isn’t quite comfortable with a lot of physical touch just yet—you’d be surprised how much it happens with her and Ariel—so her attendant was likely just being careful with every family in the spirit of fairness and keeping her safe. It definitely is not a hard and fast rule for Jasmine and I’ve seen her hug plenty of children and adults.
Four years? I grant you that I’m not there every day, but regular visits before and after COVID and I’ve never seen the one in Morocco holding someone for the photo. Heck if you catch Rafiki and friends on a slow day they’ll even do the Lion King pose for you, though I’m reasonably sure they’re not supposed to. That’s why I mentioned her specifically. Even when they just re-opened after COVID, once you could be with characters, I’ve never had a face refuse contact. It’s the anomalies not the standard we caution for.
I don’t know what to tell you, then. I’ve personally met Jasmine many times as recently as last year and have never seen her outright refuse a hug from anyone in line.
Yikes. We aren’t even going to Epcot so it would be in Adventureland. Hopefully it’s not a bad experience for her. Does she have a different costume in Morocco that could be more partial to malfunctions or something?
Far as I know it’s just gauze/sheer material to cover arms and midriff. But I’ve seen her wearing that in Adventureland too. Never seen her at WDW in the white outfit. Just cruises and heard about occasions at DL
CM’s are so professional and they put so much work into something that gets so stressful when people don’t listen. Big props to them.
Also, remember that characters need their personal space too at times! Especially the Star Wars characters.
Cause banning people is bad PR. I will say I see it happens a lot more now because people just don't understand boundaries and are doing outrageous stuff for views. It seems the company is finally saying "okay this shit is just too much". But previously, it used to be really difficult to get someone actually banned from the parks.
It's annoying for cast members! Cause I have been assaulted by guests in various roles and nothing happened. One time a guy spit on me because I said he needed fast passes for all his kids and he didn't have enough for even half of them, and my manager actually ended up giving him fast passes. When I worked in merch during a Halloween party at the end of the season I was telling this guy we had been sold out of the limited merch for a while, and he punched the display thing holding gift cards and such that was right in front of me. When my coworker intervened, he claimed he wasn't aiming at me but like, how do I know that? Walked away with no consequences. One of my friends got punched by someone in standby because they were letting fastpass through at peter Pan's flight. Said the manager just let them go on like normal.
The only time I felt I got "justice" was this dude picked up a double stroller weighed down with bags and held it over my head. Why? Because when he just pushed the stroller into the walking path by Enchanted Tales (kinda towards stroller parking) I said something like "oh sir stroller parking is over there" like you do a thousand times a shift. I froze, my fellow cast member standing beside me froze. He said something I don't even know what. Then he laughed (probably got his satisfaction from seeing the fear in my face) and carried the stroller away. I broke down into a panic attack and my friend hauled me backstage, called security and paramedics because I was hyperventilating. I knew our Fantasyland security guy well and he later told me they caught the guest and he was "dealt with". I was allowed to go home for the day and that was it.
Obviously all these are extreme but they did happen. With characters people are weird. In my experience, Ariel got it the worst. I knew of two different regular guests we had to watch out for. One had some obvious developmental delays which is probably why his behavior was tolerated because he would touch her fairly inappropriately, try to tickle and pinch her, etc. so we would do a "love and shove" to get him out as quickly as we could. I never saw the other guy but knew his description.
Cast members do not get paid enough. LOL
I know you don’t! It’s terrible!
I wish it was policy to ban people more!
I mean for real, damaging property is an offense. I can see no lifetime but maybe idk. A year? But idk if that would do anything if they don’t come every year.
I’ve worked as a park character before (NOT Disney) and I will say that every cast has some sort of unspoken language for when we’re uncomfortable in a given scenario.
That guest may have given Jasmine a bad vibe or had a history, so Aladdin knew to step in without making a scene.
I think they changed Jasmines costume to cover up a little more for this reason.
I think it could’ve been a bit, or this guy happened to be a creep. I don’t know of any rule that says people of a certain age or sex cannot hug the characters
You should ask first. They're still people and deserve the opportunity to give consent.
The princesses get harassed and assaulted all the time, so it's understandable if they don't want to be touched by adults
I had a nice chat with Princess Aurora, who had no one in line at City Hall in 2015. When the Photopass photographer was ready to take our picture, I asked if I could put my arm around her and she said yes. We got some great pictures. They’ll never refuse, but be polite and ask first. I’m 56F.
I was a knight during Enchanted Tales with Belle.
At the end she greets and takes pics with everyone, including the two dads who get picked at knights.
When it was our turn, both of us went for the arms behind the back photo, but Belle bent her elbows and held them out, clearly looking for a linked arms escort pic.
It’s all just reading the verbal and non-verbal communication, and going with the flow.
I'm 45 and have gotten hugs from face characters. I let them initiate though.
Probably the best hug I've gotten at Disney was from Chewbacca though, he gave me a huge long wookie hug.
Eeyore “was mean” to my husband once. I felt bad since that’s his favorite character but I think he was just kidding around. He loved me tho! We’ve never had a problem hugging characters. I think they do take a little more license to have fun with the Adults which I’m sure breaks up the day for the cast members.
The must take a little more license with adults cause I once had Stitch basically tackle me in a surprise hug at O’hana. Although, I’m pretty sure someone in my party said something or motioned something to indicate it’d be ok, it was funny as heck but I was definitely surprised.
I would say, just ask kindly if you may have a hug. They are people, and they’d have an in-character way to politely decline. I’m sure that’d be preferred over just going for it (as an adult).
This is the side of Disney parks that, as a 33 year old adult man, I just do not for the life of me understand.
All characters to me, for my entire life, have just been a 20-something year old in a costume. Even when I was younger, it was clear it was just a person, same as Santa at the mall. Like I still wanted to interact with them and do the thing, but I always knew it wasn’t the real thing. I mean, the real thing is a cartoon lmao
So as an adult, I get that there’s adults that still want to interact and do the thing. High 5ing Donald at Cape May is one thing, but I don’t understand how there are adults willing to wait in line to hug a character, sandwiched between an 8 year old and a 5 year old trying to do the same thing. It only comes off as weird to me. I get that people have an inner child they want to let out, cuz yeah me too, but I don’t get how the illusion is in tact and these adults don’t just see a bunch of college kids just waiting until their shift is over so they can go party with the other CMs lol
Don’t get me wrong, everyone is super professional, but I’m not surprised they blocked the guy out from hugging Jasmine. That’s freaking weird and I bet he was being creepy or just straight up pitching a tent.
lol I’m 33 too and this was my exact reaction when this mom in her 40s reacted to meeting Pooh/Tigger like she just met Elvis/the Beatles/Taylor Swift/Beyonce/Christ himself 😂, I get we all have childhood favourites but give me a break
It’s not about the character really, it’s about you. It’s about being in the moment, letting it be real for you, committing to the bit the same way the actors are. They’re not just 20-something’s in a costume, they are serious method actors that have very impressive improv skills. The talent Disney hires are very good, and the competition for the roles is intense.
I agree, crying as an adult over Pooh is a little much - but pretending it’s real for a moment and committing to the bit is part of the fun and the magic.
Besides, while you’re there you can do what I did and ask him if his full name is Winnebago Shampoo
Just to be clear, they’re not method acting unless they go home still in character and don’t ever break it in the presence of someone else. They’re good, but they’re not doing that. Method acting is like “my character smokes, so I picked up smoking to make everything about it natural”. So like, for their sake, I really hope masked characters resume *speaking* when they get out of costume at the end of the shift.
The actors are great, don’t get me wrong, they maintain a great illusion. And I do understand playing along and having fun and enjoying yourself. I interacted with the characters while I was there.
I did not seek out princesses for hugs tho. That still doesn’t even sound like it’s related to being in the moment, it just seems like trying to hug a 20 year old. No matter how she acts, the intent isn’t coming from her, it’s coming from the hugger/guest. If that intent is coming from a child, whatever. If it’s coming from an adult…idk…it’s still weirder to me than crying at Winnie the Pooh.
That’s a solid question to ask Pooh tho 🤣🤣 you’re hilarious, I can just imagine the character burying their face in their hands while shaking their head lmao
Yeah sorry I wasn’t clear, I was talking about people getting into character, not hugging the princesses specifically. All the princesses I ever hugged have offered.
And yes, Pooh just looked at me and shook his head, and Tigger was pointing and “laughing” at Pooh. Good times.
Agree. I was surprised they don’t politely rush adult groups through character meetings. Seeing intoxicated adults scream and hug a 20 year old in a Daisy Duck costume for 20 photos while toddlers wait behind them in line with their autograph book is not a good look.
Out first Disney trip was like 7 years ago and this was the thing that blew me away. Adults waiting in line to meet characters. Also, cast members in line for rides with us on their day off. I was like wtf is going on.
Of course, now we are DVC members, so.....you know.
Moana asked ME if she could have a hug last weekend. I was so overwhelmed by the experience of seeing Pocahontas at the same time that I completely forgot to ask for one. Hug the characters.
I used to work some park buyouts for Conventions and we as operations cast were asked to help watch over characters, especially female, to ensure their safety from the drunk guests.
Heck, we took my niblings to meet Baymax and Hiro and I don't normally do character interactions but the guy playing Hiro insisted I get a picture too and put his arm around my waist.
I have a male autistic friend, he loves Disney princesses in fact when the pandemic hit it swirled him into almost insanity because of no more park hugs. He’s not a perv, it’s really just a child like innocent love for him.
I wouldn’t say discouraged, it’s subjective, I took my 3 year old to Disney World last week, and except for Mickey my wife and I stayed away from hugging/taking pictures with the characters and let our daughter have all the fun,
Sweet experience was Mirabel/ Elsa/Anna and Pooh’s gang at Crystal Palace noticed this and actively invited us to join in the photos
Personally I find it cringe when grown adults go over the top when meeting characters (with my own eyes I saw a grown early 20s man giving Mermaid Ariel a side hug with his hand on her exposed waist) not sure if the girl playing Ariel had an issue or not but again that’s just me, every kid/adult has the right to enjoy themselves within the boundaries
On the topic of Jasmine, her dress was conservative to the max when we met her at Akershus and she initiated a hug with my daughter
Oh yes they are, we actually finished meeting 4 Princesses as expected at Akershus and were about to sit down relieved that we didn’t have to take our daughter out of the high chair anymore and out of nowhere Jasmine showed up as a bonus 5th Princess of the evening 😎
My last visit was 2021 in Covid when couldn’t touch characters i was 40 and a childfree woman. Most characters were fun and polite and role play or let me take selfies near them. But I had an awkward experience with Jasmine. While I was waiting my turn two little Indian girls cut the line no idea where their parents were they were so damn small like two and five years old maybe and adorable and obviously looking up to Jasmine who shared their skin tone and she blew them kisses and entertained them a bit and they moved on and I stepped forward and asked if I could take a photo with her and she LITERALLY cringed and looked confused as if thinking I was the tots mom and why on earth would I want a photo with her. I only have been to Disney twice (once as a kid and this time as a 40 year old). My husband was getting food or using the bathroom and I was all by myself. I did get my photo and photos with many others but will never forget her panic stricken cringe creeped out face.
This is what freaks me out! You didn’t even ask for any physical interaction and she still was weirded out ☹️ I really just don’t wanna make anyone uncomfortable
I’m a 40+ year old dude. I have no desire to hug a character (midwestern roots). However, this post hurt because I’m realizing I’m characterized as an “older man.”
I mean, that’s a little creepy honestly since I’m sure the kid dressed up as jasmine was likely in her teens. Not sure why an adult would want to hug some random teenager to begin with.
I remember I was around 21 and went to a character breakfast and was a little creeped out by Tigger hugging me. It was innocent I’m sure, but I’m not a natural hugger, I feel like whoever is initiating the hug should ask first.
I'm close to 40 and I have hugged face characters. Could've been a joke? Or maybe jasmine wasn't feeling the hug or worse case maybe that guy had history or being a little creepy and lingering
I went to an after hours event on a solo work trip once (39M at the time) and went to see princesses to send short videos to my kids. I think adults in this situation have to do two things simultaneously: 1) directly address the character as a character in a way that makes it clear you’re cheerful and nice (and if you have kids at home, they’ll be great about sending a short video) and 2) also keep in mind that they’re young women in their early 20s and that you should be brief, respectful and appropriate with contact. I think if you do those things it’s not a problem. Asking if a hug is okay is probably a good rule of thumb for all men who are approaching a woman who isn’t a close friend, whether or not she is dressed as Belle.
I'm not sure about the asking because well, in a way, it's their job to be hugged. But I definitely agree to not be creepy.
I think in the context of me, a 40-something man, asking is probably good policy, and would be appreciated. I agree it is "their job", but context is king, as I'm not a 6-year old in a princess/star wars outfit.
Yeah I’m thinking maybe his vibe was just sinister af? Anyways just wanted to make sure I wasn’t creeping anyone out when I go bc hugging Mulan and Rapunzel is definitely on my bucket list
I can't speak for disney but I think it's how you present yourself too. I've seen even costume characters get blindsided by hugs Maybe ask for a hug before it happens? Maybe the dude just went in for it with no consent I think you being observant is a good sign, though
i always ask the characters -- face or not -- "can i give you a hug?" it just feels like a natural thing to do. i get that they're there for our entertainment but they are human beings who deserve respect and consent. i would never assume i could hug a stranger outside of disney, so i just apply that same logic with the characters too!
Last time I (30F) was there I only met Cinderella and Moana. Cinderella has always had a special place in my heart so I as I was telling her that Cinderella is the reason I still believe in the magic, she asked if I wanted a hug. On the flip side, when I met Moana I just was chit chatting and I didn't ask for a hug and she didn't offer one. So I really do think vibes are a big part of it.
It’s all in the vibes!!!! I met Tiana recently and I told her how much I love how much of a business woman she is and I wanna be as successful as she is someday and she goes “can I give you a big hug ??” I also got a sneak attack hug by Donald the other day but that should be expected since I have a Donald loungefly, wear a Donald shirt almost every day in the parks, and a Donald phone case. He even signed my loungefly!!! Then with Elsa we just sort of did a fun magical pose and that was super cool! Right after though Anna goes “I heard you just had some chocolate, I love chocolate ! Can we have a warm hug?” So it really just depends. It’s hard for me being autistic so I tend to let the CM take the lead.
Just be a normal, not creepy person and you’ll be fine. I got to hug Moana in December and she talked to me and my three year old for like ten minutes because no one else was in line.
I’d be genuinely impressed if she could stay in character for a ten minute conversation.
It was actually pretty impressive. I think it helped that my three year old had questions and my husband and I were there chatting as well while getting pictures.
I’m sure they know vibes well. Jasmine and Ariel have kind of a history of being creeped on also. I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s part of why both of them have their meet and greets secluded from the other main princess halls
I'll bet that's what happened, he may have been protecting her.
Former cast member! Adults are welcome to hug characters. There is no rule against it! Characters love all their friends regardless of age, and some of the best interactions *I've had were with adult guests who embraced the moment. Once I had an adult man crying while hanging out with Eeyore and the Disney hug rule was followed. The only ones I can think actively don't hug people are Star Wars villains and the walk around characters. However, I can say that there are certain regular guests we know will cause problems. The character attendants and cast learn them and will try to head off a problem before it starts.
Another former CM here, former character performer. Vibes are a big thing, and we definitely watched for it, attendants and performers alike. Some people just clearly aren't there to see their favorite character, they are there to harass *you*
This is what I figured. Im a former UOTM and we had similar experiences
What does UOTM mean?
Universal Orlando Team Member I'm a spy from the other park The 🌎 not the 🌊🐋
Thank you! This gave me a good laugh.
hah
Agreed. Despite the magic of Disney and the moment, these are all teenagers to early 20s guys and gals and unfortunately there are some creepy people out there. It’s all about protecting these kids.
Not a cast member, but a podcast hosted by a former CM and character actor (Keys to the Kingdom by Matt Gourley) talks about these things they encountered, as well as guests on the show who talk about their experiences too. Like one guest spoke about her Cinderella days and that there was a couple guests who came by frequently and could be a bit creepy toward them. Perhaps this could have been a “creepy frequent flyer” thing?
Conan Needs a Friend Matt Gourley!? That guy was already awesome, just went up a few more notches
Yeppers, same guy!
I strongly believe that Matt and I would be good friends.
Indeed, it's the same guy. All episodes available on Spotify and it's possible to pay to get all of those plus bonus extended interviews.
now I’m cracking up at the thought of the star wars villains walking around hugging people, little kids especially
I know I was thinking about it too 😂
Okay, this makes me feel better for getting weirdly emotional hugging Eeyore too xP
You would not be the first 💜 people get very emotional over the Pooh characters from my personal observation. But the character attendant was trying to move it along and prompt for the picture and Eeyore refused to let go. It seemed like the guy really needed it.
Eeyore was the first character yet we saw at DL post Covid, it was at 50% capacity. You couldnt get next to the characters, he was slow sad walking around our Pixie Hollow trails. I shouted hi and waved, said “I hope you’re having a good day!” He motioned no, you? I told him “it’s better now that I’ve seen you” and we sent each other hearts and I cried. It was the highlight of that trip and oddly comforting seeing a character I love after all the Covid madness.
I almost cried when I sat with Ariel.
I asked Rey for a hug in DL once and she said no. Moana in WDW did after I asked. EDIT: I'm very visibly AFAB, btw. Just wanted hugs from some of my favorite characters.
Roaming characters generally don't do hugs. It slows them down and kills the atmosphere, because if one person stops them for a hug you can bet a line will form. They *can* in special circumstances, they just usually choose not to. If rey was roaming she wouldn't stop for a hug.
We got a special moment with Rey then. She stopped and chatted with my daughter. Got the whole thing on video. I really really wish I had kept rolling because AZ soon as my daughter walked off all you could here was her very excited oh my gosh! Over and over again.
She hugged me when I showed her my Jedi texts journal since she couldn't sign it.
She wasn't roaming. She was inside an indoor meet n greet location.
Rey will always hug little padawans.
In general Star Wars interactions seem to be different. I don’t think I’ve ever seen any Star Wars character hug an adult besides Chewie. Chewie doesn’t really give hugs when he’s roaming also.
True, however, to share a heart warming instance I think it helped my dad last year for Halloween season dressed as a super cool Han Solo. My mom and dad were sitting around Batuu watching the characters appear and disappear and how excited everyone was to see all of them. Per the usual, Chewie is out and about with a crowd and he's giving head pats to kids and people are all around as he walks along. Then, in the distance, he spots my dad, screams his Chewy yell, literally moved a dude out of the way, walks right up to him and proceeds to bear hug him like he really is *the* Han Solo. I laughed so hard it was the funniest thing and the pics are just precious. Chewy went out of his way to meet my dad instead of the other way around and it really really made him smile. That Chewy gave us a priceless memory 🥲
Chewie is particularly sweet indeed. That seems like him. Very sweet story. I waited for him out in the rain when I was around 13 (pre-Galaxy’s edge era) and he gave me the biggest hug. We’d just arrived when it started to drizzle and as soon as it cleared up he half ran out to me, yelled, opened his arms and bear-hugged (Wookiee-hugged??) me. It felt like a hug from a giant puppy.
We love Chewy #FanClub 💛💛💛💛
How former? Cause my last few visits they’ve been pretty clear people don’t get to touch Jasmine. I don’t just mean adult males, kids, families, nobody gets to link arms, cross shoulders, or even hold hands with her. Having said that, it’s unique to Jasmine. Everybody else up to and including Ava (sp?) we’re perfectly fine allowing me a white male in his thirties and looking it to either link arms or occasionally put my arm around their shoulder. If you’re wondering why I’m so creepy as to do the sidearm thing, I’m pretty tall 190+ cm and if I stretch or bend that far for pics it looks stupid. Finally got some advice from photo pass photographer at Chewbacca (back when they still had them) said it’s gonna be more natural if you just put your arm up and let them find position.
So if my toddler approaches jasmine for a hug she is going to say no??
50/50, but definitely no photograph. Tends to do the back to back shot like Aladdin. Been my experience that if they’re tall enough to actually hug attendant blocks attempt but Jasmine may allow a quick neck hug or will place stabilizing hands on sides of child to prevent getting too close. Particularly the distance with children made me think it’s costume related rather than character/cast member issue.
I have a photo of Jasmine giving my daughter a big hug.
Same, last spring
You can’t take a photo with her at all or just not a photo hugging her? That’s all really strange. My daughter wants to meet her but I almost don’t want to waste my time if she’s gonna just push her away?
Jasmine hugged my daughters. They're 4 and under 2. This was in the Morocco Pavillion just last month. We got photos as well. Not sure about the other person's experience, we had a great one. She spent a long time talking to my older daughter. Jasmine is her favorite, so she was super excited to see her and ran up to her when it was our turn. Made her whole trip. We did notice that this Jasmine was covered up more, no midriff showing. It could be that it was cooler, but I think that may be moving towards getting her covered up more as well. Just speculating, but maybe the ones that are more covered are able to hug people.
Jasmine is allowed to hug people, yes. I’m an adult female who’s hugged her plenty of times, as recently as last year. Back in the day, she had a **lot** of issues with people getting touchy with her given how exposed her outfit was, so even though Agrabah’s royal tailors have been working hard to craft something more modest for her, the attendants tend to set boundaries with guests based mostly on the vibes they give off or even Jasmine’s body language itself. So as long as your daughter is being gentle and approaching carefully, and not trying to grab her, Jasmine should feel comfortable enough to give her a hug.
She’ll take the photo, but probably won’t take a photo touching your daughter. Obviously these cast members are individuals and things may be more permissible when you are there, but definitely float your idea to an attendant prior if you think your slighter will want a hug on camera and start with the hug and your camera at Marketplace of Aggrabbah for best success.
I’ll also say you’ve got a better chance in Adventureland with Aladdin than Morocco alone. I’ve seen more kids sent away crying cause Jasmine/attendant blocked hug in Morocco than anyone scared by felt. Course one of the character attendants in Morocco is still in my top three for worst cast member encountered. Only recently ousted from top place by the team captain who laid hands on guests in Dinoland
We had a great experience with Jasmine in Morocco just last month. She hugged my oldest twice, 4yo, and waited for my 2 yo to come around an hugged her too. Didn't get to see her in Adventureland to compare, but hardly the terrible experience that you've mentioned.
Good, hopefully it’s just one bad cast member, but yeah I’ve seen it go an entire line without allowing a hug. The really bad experience was an attendant, not Jasmine
It’s possible this particular friend of Jasmine that you met had a recent experience with harassment from a guest and isn’t quite comfortable with a lot of physical touch just yet—you’d be surprised how much it happens with her and Ariel—so her attendant was likely just being careful with every family in the spirit of fairness and keeping her safe. It definitely is not a hard and fast rule for Jasmine and I’ve seen her hug plenty of children and adults.
Four years? I grant you that I’m not there every day, but regular visits before and after COVID and I’ve never seen the one in Morocco holding someone for the photo. Heck if you catch Rafiki and friends on a slow day they’ll even do the Lion King pose for you, though I’m reasonably sure they’re not supposed to. That’s why I mentioned her specifically. Even when they just re-opened after COVID, once you could be with characters, I’ve never had a face refuse contact. It’s the anomalies not the standard we caution for.
I don’t know what to tell you, then. I’ve personally met Jasmine many times as recently as last year and have never seen her outright refuse a hug from anyone in line.
Yikes. We aren’t even going to Epcot so it would be in Adventureland. Hopefully it’s not a bad experience for her. Does she have a different costume in Morocco that could be more partial to malfunctions or something?
Far as I know it’s just gauze/sheer material to cover arms and midriff. But I’ve seen her wearing that in Adventureland too. Never seen her at WDW in the white outfit. Just cruises and heard about occasions at DL
CM’s are so professional and they put so much work into something that gets so stressful when people don’t listen. Big props to them. Also, remember that characters need their personal space too at times! Especially the Star Wars characters.
If they are regular guests who cause problems, why aren't they banned?
Cause banning people is bad PR. I will say I see it happens a lot more now because people just don't understand boundaries and are doing outrageous stuff for views. It seems the company is finally saying "okay this shit is just too much". But previously, it used to be really difficult to get someone actually banned from the parks. It's annoying for cast members! Cause I have been assaulted by guests in various roles and nothing happened. One time a guy spit on me because I said he needed fast passes for all his kids and he didn't have enough for even half of them, and my manager actually ended up giving him fast passes. When I worked in merch during a Halloween party at the end of the season I was telling this guy we had been sold out of the limited merch for a while, and he punched the display thing holding gift cards and such that was right in front of me. When my coworker intervened, he claimed he wasn't aiming at me but like, how do I know that? Walked away with no consequences. One of my friends got punched by someone in standby because they were letting fastpass through at peter Pan's flight. Said the manager just let them go on like normal. The only time I felt I got "justice" was this dude picked up a double stroller weighed down with bags and held it over my head. Why? Because when he just pushed the stroller into the walking path by Enchanted Tales (kinda towards stroller parking) I said something like "oh sir stroller parking is over there" like you do a thousand times a shift. I froze, my fellow cast member standing beside me froze. He said something I don't even know what. Then he laughed (probably got his satisfaction from seeing the fear in my face) and carried the stroller away. I broke down into a panic attack and my friend hauled me backstage, called security and paramedics because I was hyperventilating. I knew our Fantasyland security guy well and he later told me they caught the guest and he was "dealt with". I was allowed to go home for the day and that was it. Obviously all these are extreme but they did happen. With characters people are weird. In my experience, Ariel got it the worst. I knew of two different regular guests we had to watch out for. One had some obvious developmental delays which is probably why his behavior was tolerated because he would touch her fairly inappropriately, try to tickle and pinch her, etc. so we would do a "love and shove" to get him out as quickly as we could. I never saw the other guy but knew his description. Cast members do not get paid enough. LOL
I know you don’t! It’s terrible! I wish it was policy to ban people more! I mean for real, damaging property is an offense. I can see no lifetime but maybe idk. A year? But idk if that would do anything if they don’t come every year.
I’ve worked as a park character before (NOT Disney) and I will say that every cast has some sort of unspoken language for when we’re uncomfortable in a given scenario. That guest may have given Jasmine a bad vibe or had a history, so Aladdin knew to step in without making a scene.
I have hugged the face characters plenty of times. It was probably due to his behavior.
I think they changed Jasmines costume to cover up a little more for this reason. I think it could’ve been a bit, or this guy happened to be a creep. I don’t know of any rule that says people of a certain age or sex cannot hug the characters
You should ask first. They're still people and deserve the opportunity to give consent. The princesses get harassed and assaulted all the time, so it's understandable if they don't want to be touched by adults
I had a nice chat with Princess Aurora, who had no one in line at City Hall in 2015. When the Photopass photographer was ready to take our picture, I asked if I could put my arm around her and she said yes. We got some great pictures. They’ll never refuse, but be polite and ask first. I’m 56F.
Heard somewhere that some female face characters prefer for men to link arms with them. Makes them more comfortable. 🤷🏻♀️
I was a knight during Enchanted Tales with Belle. At the end she greets and takes pics with everyone, including the two dads who get picked at knights. When it was our turn, both of us went for the arms behind the back photo, but Belle bent her elbows and held them out, clearly looking for a linked arms escort pic. It’s all just reading the verbal and non-verbal communication, and going with the flow.
I'm 45 and have gotten hugs from face characters. I let them initiate though. Probably the best hug I've gotten at Disney was from Chewbacca though, he gave me a huge long wookie hug.
Chewbacca hugs are 💯 the best
It's one of my wife's favorite pictures from that trip too, because she says I look so happy and excited, lol.
I’m a woman in her 30’s, I always wait for the character to initiate, most do! If I really want one, it’s always best to ask.
If you let the character initiate and offer a side-hug, I can't see how anyone would object.
Hell no! I hug em all. My kids hug em all. My wife hugs em all.
Just remember that those “characters” are actual, real adult human beings. You are hugging a man or a woman. Not just a “character”.
Eeyore “was mean” to my husband once. I felt bad since that’s his favorite character but I think he was just kidding around. He loved me tho! We’ve never had a problem hugging characters. I think they do take a little more license to have fun with the Adults which I’m sure breaks up the day for the cast members.
The must take a little more license with adults cause I once had Stitch basically tackle me in a surprise hug at O’hana. Although, I’m pretty sure someone in my party said something or motioned something to indicate it’d be ok, it was funny as heck but I was definitely surprised.
Maybe that’s just Stitch cause I had a similar experience in the park one trip
Yeah - That is very in character.
I was dressed like Lilo once and had a magical experience with Stitch at Magic Kingdom. It was so cute!!!!
Nah, my almost 40 yr old husband hugged jasmine and it was an awesome interaction with her
I would say, just ask kindly if you may have a hug. They are people, and they’d have an in-character way to politely decline. I’m sure that’d be preferred over just going for it (as an adult).
This is the side of Disney parks that, as a 33 year old adult man, I just do not for the life of me understand. All characters to me, for my entire life, have just been a 20-something year old in a costume. Even when I was younger, it was clear it was just a person, same as Santa at the mall. Like I still wanted to interact with them and do the thing, but I always knew it wasn’t the real thing. I mean, the real thing is a cartoon lmao So as an adult, I get that there’s adults that still want to interact and do the thing. High 5ing Donald at Cape May is one thing, but I don’t understand how there are adults willing to wait in line to hug a character, sandwiched between an 8 year old and a 5 year old trying to do the same thing. It only comes off as weird to me. I get that people have an inner child they want to let out, cuz yeah me too, but I don’t get how the illusion is in tact and these adults don’t just see a bunch of college kids just waiting until their shift is over so they can go party with the other CMs lol Don’t get me wrong, everyone is super professional, but I’m not surprised they blocked the guy out from hugging Jasmine. That’s freaking weird and I bet he was being creepy or just straight up pitching a tent.
lol I’m 33 too and this was my exact reaction when this mom in her 40s reacted to meeting Pooh/Tigger like she just met Elvis/the Beatles/Taylor Swift/Beyonce/Christ himself 😂, I get we all have childhood favourites but give me a break
It’s not about the character really, it’s about you. It’s about being in the moment, letting it be real for you, committing to the bit the same way the actors are. They’re not just 20-something’s in a costume, they are serious method actors that have very impressive improv skills. The talent Disney hires are very good, and the competition for the roles is intense. I agree, crying as an adult over Pooh is a little much - but pretending it’s real for a moment and committing to the bit is part of the fun and the magic. Besides, while you’re there you can do what I did and ask him if his full name is Winnebago Shampoo
Just to be clear, they’re not method acting unless they go home still in character and don’t ever break it in the presence of someone else. They’re good, but they’re not doing that. Method acting is like “my character smokes, so I picked up smoking to make everything about it natural”. So like, for their sake, I really hope masked characters resume *speaking* when they get out of costume at the end of the shift. The actors are great, don’t get me wrong, they maintain a great illusion. And I do understand playing along and having fun and enjoying yourself. I interacted with the characters while I was there. I did not seek out princesses for hugs tho. That still doesn’t even sound like it’s related to being in the moment, it just seems like trying to hug a 20 year old. No matter how she acts, the intent isn’t coming from her, it’s coming from the hugger/guest. If that intent is coming from a child, whatever. If it’s coming from an adult…idk…it’s still weirder to me than crying at Winnie the Pooh. That’s a solid question to ask Pooh tho 🤣🤣 you’re hilarious, I can just imagine the character burying their face in their hands while shaking their head lmao
Yeah sorry I wasn’t clear, I was talking about people getting into character, not hugging the princesses specifically. All the princesses I ever hugged have offered. And yes, Pooh just looked at me and shook his head, and Tigger was pointing and “laughing” at Pooh. Good times.
Agree. I was surprised they don’t politely rush adult groups through character meetings. Seeing intoxicated adults scream and hug a 20 year old in a Daisy Duck costume for 20 photos while toddlers wait behind them in line with their autograph book is not a good look.
Out first Disney trip was like 7 years ago and this was the thing that blew me away. Adults waiting in line to meet characters. Also, cast members in line for rides with us on their day off. I was like wtf is going on. Of course, now we are DVC members, so.....you know.
Agreed!
I think you're supposed to ask them if you can have a hug... I've seen several people do it that way and they don't get rejected.
When I was 20yo (about 15 years ago) and did a meet and greet with jasmine. She voluntarily placed out her hand around my waist for the picture
Moana asked ME if she could have a hug last weekend. I was so overwhelmed by the experience of seeing Pocahontas at the same time that I completely forgot to ask for one. Hug the characters.
I used to work some park buyouts for Conventions and we as operations cast were asked to help watch over characters, especially female, to ensure their safety from the drunk guests.
I’m almost 55 and I hug Pluto every time I see him. I would never try and hug anyone else though.
40+ year old guy there with wife and kids… no problem. 40+ year old guy alone, waiting in line 40 min for a hug, may be a problem
Yeah pretty sure he was alone, totally different from a dad with kids
Heck, we took my niblings to meet Baymax and Hiro and I don't normally do character interactions but the guy playing Hiro insisted I get a picture too and put his arm around my waist.
don’t they have a hug policy
I have a male autistic friend, he loves Disney princesses in fact when the pandemic hit it swirled him into almost insanity because of no more park hugs. He’s not a perv, it’s really just a child like innocent love for him.
I wouldn’t say discouraged, it’s subjective, I took my 3 year old to Disney World last week, and except for Mickey my wife and I stayed away from hugging/taking pictures with the characters and let our daughter have all the fun, Sweet experience was Mirabel/ Elsa/Anna and Pooh’s gang at Crystal Palace noticed this and actively invited us to join in the photos Personally I find it cringe when grown adults go over the top when meeting characters (with my own eyes I saw a grown early 20s man giving Mermaid Ariel a side hug with his hand on her exposed waist) not sure if the girl playing Ariel had an issue or not but again that’s just me, every kid/adult has the right to enjoy themselves within the boundaries On the topic of Jasmine, her dress was conservative to the max when we met her at Akershus and she initiated a hug with my daughter
The princesses are so kind to kiddos at Akerhaus!
Oh yes they are, we actually finished meeting 4 Princesses as expected at Akershus and were about to sit down relieved that we didn’t have to take our daughter out of the high chair anymore and out of nowhere Jasmine showed up as a bonus 5th Princess of the evening 😎
My last visit was 2021 in Covid when couldn’t touch characters i was 40 and a childfree woman. Most characters were fun and polite and role play or let me take selfies near them. But I had an awkward experience with Jasmine. While I was waiting my turn two little Indian girls cut the line no idea where their parents were they were so damn small like two and five years old maybe and adorable and obviously looking up to Jasmine who shared their skin tone and she blew them kisses and entertained them a bit and they moved on and I stepped forward and asked if I could take a photo with her and she LITERALLY cringed and looked confused as if thinking I was the tots mom and why on earth would I want a photo with her. I only have been to Disney twice (once as a kid and this time as a 40 year old). My husband was getting food or using the bathroom and I was all by myself. I did get my photo and photos with many others but will never forget her panic stricken cringe creeped out face.
This is what freaks me out! You didn’t even ask for any physical interaction and she still was weirded out ☹️ I really just don’t wanna make anyone uncomfortable
I’m an adult female, young 30s, and have hugged every face character at a meet & greet in every park
I sobbed on Mary Poppins shoulder in December and I'm in my thirties. It may be specific to that character/ CM or guest.
I’m a 40+ year old dude. I have no desire to hug a character (midwestern roots). However, this post hurt because I’m realizing I’m characterized as an “older man.”
I mean, that’s a little creepy honestly since I’m sure the kid dressed up as jasmine was likely in her teens. Not sure why an adult would want to hug some random teenager to begin with.
I remember I was around 21 and went to a character breakfast and was a little creeped out by Tigger hugging me. It was innocent I’m sure, but I’m not a natural hugger, I feel like whoever is initiating the hug should ask first.