Walt Disney World Cast Members are the heart and soul of the Disney experience. They work tirelessly to ensure that every guest has a magical time.
However, certain comments can diminish the magic for everyone, including the Cast Members. If you want to maintain the Disney magic and show appreciation for these hardworking individuals, here are 10 things you should never say to them.
1. “Can You Let Me on This Ride Without a Reservation?”
Disney has strict policies regarding Lightning Lane and standby queues. Cast Members don’t have the authority to bend the rules.
Asking them to make an exception puts them in an awkward position, and the answer will almost always be no. Instead, plan ahead and secure your spot through the My Disney Experience app.
Disney recently introduced its Lightning Lane Premier Pass, allowing guests to access any Lightning Lane attraction at any time without prior reservations. This option offers more flexibility for visitors.
2. “It’s My Birthday—Can I Get Something for Free?”
While Disney loves to celebrate special occasions and may surprise guests with small magical moments, there’s no official policy for giving out free stuff.
Asking for a freebie can make the interaction uncomfortable. Instead, grab a free celebration button and let the magic unfold naturally!
3. “Can You Make the Lines Shorter?”
Cast Members don’t have control over crowd levels or queue times. Complaining about the wait won’t change anything.
They’re just as aware as you are that the lines can be long. The best way to avoid long waits is to arrive early, use mobile ordering, and take advantage of lower crowd times.
4. “Why Did You Get Rid of (Insert Closed Attraction)?”
Disney is always evolving, and while it’s natural to miss beloved rides, Cast Members don’t make the decisions about closures or refurbishments.
Complaining to them won’t bring an attraction back, and they’ve likely heard the same grievance many times. Instead, share your memories and enjoy the new experiences Disney has to offer.
Notable recent closures include Muppet*Vision 3D at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which has been retired to make way for a new Monsters Inc.-themed area.
5. “Do You Know Who I Am?”
Unless you’re Mickey Mouse, this phrase will likely earn you an eye-roll. Trying to use status or connections to get special treatment rarely works and can come across as entitled.
Disney prides itself on treating all guests equally, so just enjoy your trip without expecting VIP privileges.
6. “I Paid a Lot to Be Here, So I Deserve Special Treatment.”
Everyone at Disney has paid to be there, and entitlement won’t make the experience any better.
Cast Members strive to provide top-notch service to all guests, regardless of how much they spent. Being kind and patient will get you further than demanding special treatment.
7. “Can You Watch My Kid for a Minute?”
Cast Members are not babysitters, and they have important responsibilities to manage throughout the park.
Leaving your child with a Cast Member—even for a short time—creates a safety issue and is not allowed. If you need childcare, Disney offers professional babysitting services through Kids Nite Out.
8. “Why Is Everything So Expensive?”
Disney pricing is set by corporate, and frontline Cast Members have no say in the cost of tickets, food, or merchandise.
Complaining about prices to them won’t change anything, and it only makes their job harder. Instead, budget ahead of time and seek out affordable dining and souvenir options.
9. “Come On, Just This Once?”
Whether it’s cutting in line, sneaking into a reserved area, or getting around a park rule, trying to convince a Cast Member to make an exception is unfair.
Disney policies are in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests, and Cast Members are trained to enforce them.
10. “This Job Must Be So Easy!”
Working at Disney is rewarding, but it’s far from easy.
Cast Members deal with long hours, intense heat, challenging guest interactions, and strict performance standards—all while keeping a smile on their faces.
A little appreciation goes a long way, so instead of making assumptions, thank them for their hard work!
Final Thoughts
Disney Cast Members work incredibly hard to keep the magic alive, and a little kindness can make a big difference in their day.
Avoid saying these phrases, be patient, and show your appreciation—it will make your experience even more magical!
If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, remember to plan ahead, be mindful of park rules, and above all, enjoy the magic Disney has to offer.
