Disney World Removes Alligator And Crocodile References From Rides And Parades After Tragic Toddler Death


Disney World is taking an extra step to revamp the popular Orlando attraction, following the tragic death of a toddler who was attacked by an alligator on their grounds. In addition to posting more signage warning of the deadly reptiles, Disney World also has removed all references to alligators and crocodiles from their rides and parades.

After Lane Graves died at Disney World, the park has been taking precautions to warn visitors of the alligator threat that lies in and around the expansive bodies of water within Disney’s Orlando theme park borders. One of the most notable changes after the tragic toddler death includes new signage warning guests of the alligator threat. Previously, there were just “no swimming” signs posted.

In addition to warning of actual danger, Disney World is staying sensitive to the tragedy and has changed some of their rides, and even their parades, to make sure no one is offended by their previous references to alligators and crocodiles. Disney spokesperson Jacquee Wahler told the Orlando Sentinal, “We are conducting a swift and thorough review of all of our processes and protocols. This includes the number, placement, and wording of our signage and warnings.”

One of the most notable changes to the program includes axing references to alligators during the Magic Kingdom’s Jungle Cruise, according to Local 10. The cheesy Jungle Cruise script has been around since 1962 and pretty much anyone who has been on the ride has heard it. Now, the boat captains on the famous ride have removed lines such as, “Do you know what the difference between the crocodiles and alligators are? The crocodiles are made of plastic and the alligators are made with fiberglass.”

That wasn’t the only joke removed from the Jungle Cruise ride, which was previously filled with alligator and crocodile jokes as guests float down a murky river and take in the sights of several fake animals along the way. The old warning to “watch your children or the crocodiles will” was understandably removed from the script as well.

The Kilimanjaro Safari ride at Animal Kingdom also removed a crocodile reference. Previously, guests were teased that an old bridge may break and drop them into a crocodile pit. Now, there are no jokes made as those who dare to cross the bridge make their way.

It seems that Disney World has gone out of their way to remain sensitive to the alligator tragedy and even removed Tick Tock Croc, the famous alligator from Peter Pan from their Festival of Fantasy parade. There are rumblings that more cuts might be made, including the debut of Louis the Alligator from The Princess and the Frog who was supposed to be joining the stage as part of the Mickey’s Friendship Faire show, according to Inside The Magic.

It is unclear if any of the now-removed crocodile or alligator references will return later, or if Disney World has nixed them for good. After the tragic death of 2-year old Lane Graves, it seems appropriate for the company to show at least a little bit of sensitivity.

This doesn’t mean that all the alligator and crocodile references have been removed from Disney World. There are reports that Disney plans to leave the real and fake alligator references at the Epcot attraction Living with the Land. Alligator sightings are nothing new at the Orlando, Florida, theme park; but, until recently, they weren’t taken seriously enough and now guests are very aware of the danger involved with Florida’s natural predator.

[Image via Shutterstock]

Share this article: Disney World Removes Alligator And Crocodile References From Rides And Parades After Tragic Toddler Death
More from Inquisitr