Disney Cast Members are some of the hardest-working people you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. From running the attractions to serving up Mickey waffles to bringing Dinsey’s iconic characters to life, they truly are the heart and soul behind the theme parks.
Most Cast Members are extremely knowledgeable about how things run in their location and are happy to answer any questions you may have, but there are some things they either can’t or won’t tell you, no matter how nicely you ask.
So, if you want to learn some secrets about the most magical place on earth, you’ve come to the right place. Here are five things Disney World Cast Members won’t tell you about:
1. The Tunnels
Most people know about the mysterious tunnel system under Magic Kingdom, known officially as the Utilidors. Some Disney fans are willing to pay an exorbitant amount just to get a small glimpse of the underground network that Cast Members traverse every day. Disney does offer a guided tour through the tunnel system if you’re willing to pay for it, but even they won’t show you everything.
The tunnels aren’t just for getting from one land to the next. They house pretty much everything the park needs to operate, from garbage disposal to computer labs to costuming. They are so big that some Cast Members use electric vehicles called pargos to haul things (and people) back and forth more quickly.
2. Backstage Restaurants
All four Disney World parks have Cast Member-only eateries that serve food at heavily discounted prices. You won’t find any Mickey bars or Disney churros here, but there are burgers, chicken sandwiches, pizza, tacos, cheese curds, tater tots, and even Subway sandwiches on the menu. There’s even a special app that Cast Members can use to order food ahead of time and earn rewards points toward a free meal.
3. Third Party
Not everyone you see with a name tag on actually works for the mouse. Some work for companies that merely partner with Disney. Pandora Jewelry cast, for example, works for and is paid by Pandora. They may be Cast Members by name, but they do not get all the perks that come with being on Disney’s payroll.
Disney World also partners with many outside businesses to create food and merchandise for use inside their parks. Popular Disney snacks like Mickey Pretzels are often delivered frozen and baked onsite. Similarly, most of the toys you see being sold in merchandise shops across the property come from third-party manufacturers like Hasbro.
4. Special Codes
If you ever hear a Cast Member spout a phrase you don’t understand or a seemingly random number, they might be speaking in code. All Cast Members are required to know certain codes. The infamous “code V” is a well-known moniker for vomit clean-up, but there are also special codes for broken rides, lost children, fires, theft, serious injuries, and more.
Not all codes stand for something gross or dangerous though. Some are quite funny. For example, if you’re hanging out in Tomorrowland, you might hear a Cast Member tell another, “I’m going to Star Command.” They aren’t going to report to Buzz Lightyear (although that would be cool). They’re probably just stepping backstage to use the bathroom.
5. Fake Names
https://gty.im/1146938024
Have you ever driven to work and realized you forgot something important at home? Maybe your phone or your wallet? Well, that happens to Cast Members too, but sometimes they forget their name tag instead. The official Dinsey Look Book states that all Cast Members must wear their name tag at all times.
But if you lose it or forget it at home, no worries. Costuming has plenty of extras to choose from, but that means some Cast Members you see may be sporting a completely false name. Some Cast Members are even required to use a fake name all the time to deter angry guests from filing complaints for things out of their control.
So, did you know about all of the secrets on this list? Let us know in the comments below. And before you go, I’ll share one more Disney secret: be kind to Cast Members. You might be surprised by what can happen.
For More Great Content
Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.
Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover Fantasy Sports, too!
Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to Respect The Hustle! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.