Few attractions are as iconic—and as controversial—as Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean. But for some Disneyland Resort guests, their recent experience on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride wasn’t about immersive storytelling or pirate adventures; it was about an abrupt halt to the fun. The beloved attraction experienced a temporary shutdown, requiring an evacuation and sparking conversation about the ride’s ongoing controversies.
The Pirates of the Caribbean Ride Controversy
Although Pirates of the Caribbean is a fan-favorite attraction at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, it has been no stranger to backlash in recent years. From its connection to actor Johnny Depp’s portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow to changes in the infamous bride auction scene, the ride has long stirred debate. In 2018, Walt Disney Imagineers transformed the auction scene, turning animatronic brides into fierce female pirates.
While some Disney Parks fans applauded the update, others criticized the decision, arguing that it erased some of the ride’s nostalgic charm. However, some critics have gone even further. During a viral moment in 2023, some women described the ride as “rapey” due to the behavior of male animatronics toward female park guests. Others called for the attraction to be “canceled” altogether, reigniting debate about the ride’s place in the modern era.
A Breakdown at Disneyland Park
Despite its controversies, Pirates of the Caribbean continues to draw thousands of guests daily. Like any popular Disney Park attraction, it occasionally experiences technical issues. TikToker @laurenbridetobe recently shared her experience evacuating from the New Orleans Square version of the ride:
@laurenbridetobe Stuck on Pirates of the Caribbean and had to evacuate out up the stairs of the ride! 🏴☠️✨ #piratesofthecaribbean #stuckonride #disneyland
In the video, Disney cast members directed guests to climb out of their boats onto emergency evacuation walkways. As the guests exited the attraction, @laurenbridetobe captured footage of a Captain Jack Sparrow animatronic, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the ride’s inner workings. The evacuation route led guests up a steep staircase to the final hill of the ride before they returned to the exit platform.
It’s unclear what caused the breakdown, but Disneyland Resort quickly restored operations, allowing Pirates of the Caribbean to reopen.
Have you evacuated a Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort ride? Share your story with us in the comments.
I think I’m most confused by the women who think that the animatronics are interacting with female park guests.