The Disneyland Club 33 lawsuit involves Scott and Diana Anderson, a couple who filed a high-profile legal battle against Disney after being expelled from Club 33, the ultra-exclusive and secretive private club located within Disneyland Resort. The lawsuit, which concluded in 2024, garnered significant attention due to the couple’s claims of wrongful termination of their membership and their pursuit of reinstatement along with financial damages after Disney accused them of violating club rules, including allegations of public intoxication.
Background of the Club 33 Lawsuit
Scott and Diana Anderson, both in their 60s, had been Disney enthusiasts and longtime hopefuls for Club 33 membership, spending over a decade on the waiting list before finally gaining entry in 2012. The club requires a hefty initiation fee around $50,000, plus annual dues exceeding $15,000 per person. The Andersons frequented the club extensively, visiting the Disneyland Resort 60 to 80 times annually and enjoying the club’s exclusive amenities including fine dining, VIP tours, and private events.
Their troubles began around 2017 when Scott was found by park security appearing intoxicated near the entrance of California Adventure. Disney cited this incident, along with previous violations such as Diana’s use of profanity, as grounds to expel them permanently from Club 33. Scott claimed his condition was due to a vestibular migraine triggered by red wine, not intoxication, a defense supported by some medical testimony.
Legal Claims and Trial Proceedings
- The Andersons argued they were wrongfully expelled and that Disney had not followed proper procedures, seeking reinstatement and monetary damages amounting to over $230,000 for membership fees and four months of unused membership.
- Disney asserted that Club 33 membership is a privilege, not a right, and that their guidelines permitted immediate termination for matters including public intoxication.
- The case proceeded to jury trial in 2024, where evidence and testimonies were presented about the incident, Disney’s policies, and medical conditions affecting Scott.
- After deliberating for about 45 minutes, an Orange County jury sided with Disney, affirming the club’s right to expel members for violations and rejecting the Andersons’ claims of discrimination or wrongful termination.
Aftermath and Public Reaction
The Andersons reported spending approximately $400,000 on legal costs and expressed their intention to continue fighting despite the verdict. The case has drawn public fascination and highlighted the exclusivity and strict rules governing Club 33, often referred to as a coveted but secretive enclave within Disneyland known for its luxury and limited membership.
The lawsuit shed light on the membership policies of Club 33, which has long been a closely guarded secret with a lengthy waitlist, expensive fees, and strict codes of conduct. It also sparked debates about member rights, due process in exclusive clubs, and the balance Disney maintains between maintaining an elite experience and managing member behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Disneyland Club 33 Lawsuit
What is Club 33?
Club 33 is a private, members-only club located in Disneyland’s New Orleans Square, known for its exclusivity, high initiation fees, and access to exclusive dining and VIP experiences within the park.
Why were the Andersons expelled from Club 33?
Disney expelled them in 2017 following allegations that Scott Anderson was publicly intoxicated in the park, an action against the club’s strict membership rules. Scott contended he was suffering from a medical condition mistaken for intoxication.
What did the Andersons seek in their lawsuit?
They sought reinstatement to the club, reimbursement for unused membership fees, and damages totaling over $230,000 for the loss of their membership and associated costs.
What was the outcome of the lawsuit?
The jury ruled in favor of Disney, upholding the expulsion and dismissing the Andersons’ claims of wrongful termination or discrimination.
Can members of Club 33 be expelled?
Yes. Club 33’s policies state that membership is a privilege, not a right, and allows for immediate termination for violations such as public intoxication.
Conclusion
The Disneyland Club 33 lawsuit highlights the complexities and exclusivity surrounding one of the most coveted private clubs in the world. The Andersons’ legal battle against Disney underscores how elite memberships can come with strict behavioral expectations and limited recourse in disputes. While the jury sided with Disney in this case, the saga continues to fascinate Disney aficionados and serves as a cautionary tale about the responsibilities and risks of belonging to luxury, invitation-only clubs. The case also raises broader questions about member rights, club governance, and the management of exclusive experiences in global entertainment venues.
