Tom Hanks Ruins Disney Thanksgiving: Excommunicated Club 33 Members Reveal All

Club 33 has found a new enemy in Scott and Diana Anderson. The couple, who famously invested $400,000 in a high-stakes battle to prevent their expulsion from Disneyland’s elite Club 33, are now ready to share their behind-the-scenes experiences.

The Andersons spent a fortune defending their status within the ultra-exclusive society for the last several years, and now they have detailed a series of scandals and surprising revelations about life in one of the most coveted clubs in the world. From bathroom breaks in Walt’s personal apartment to celebrity fights and scandals, the Andersons are not holding back.

Related: Disney Makes Its Exclusive Club 33 Available for Everyone in Unprecedented Announcement

A Peek Inside Disney’s Exclusive Club 33

Since its inception in 1967, Club 33 has stood as the pinnacle of exclusivity at Disneyland Resort, serving as a luxurious retreat for the park’s highest-rolling VIPs. Nestled discreetly above the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, this elite club has long been an in-the-know sanctuary for those seeking an unparalleled Disneyland experience.

In 2012, Club 33 further elevated its prestige with the addition of a satellite location: the 1901 Lounge, located in Disney California Adventure. Both of these locations remained tucked away from the rest of the park, intentionally creating a divide between the elite and regular theme park guests.

Club 33’s allure stems from its unique blend of opulence and seclusion. Initially established as a private retreat for Walt Disney and his distinguished guests, the club has evolved into a coveted membership known for its fine dining, exclusive events, and an atmosphere of refined elegance.

Hidden behind an unassuming façade above the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, the entrance to Club 33 reveals a world of luxurious décor, gourmet cuisine, and impeccable service, offering members an elevated Disneyland Resort experience.

When the exclusive nature of Club 33 expanded with the opening of the 1901 Lounge in Disney California Adventure, the club’s allure grew. Named in honor of the year of Walt Disney’s birth, the 1901 Lounge was designed to cater to the Platinum-tier members of Club 33, offering them a new level of exclusivity.

Located within the Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure Park, this satellite lounge provides a sophisticated escape with a similarly high standard of service and ambiance as its original counterpart.

Similar to Club 33, the 1901 Lounge offers a curated selection of premium cocktails, fine wines, and artisanal dishes, all served in an elegant setting that pays homage to the early days of Hollywood and Disneyland. With its intimate atmosphere and exclusive access, the lounge has quickly become a favored retreat for those who have achieved the highest echelon of Club 33 membership.

Membership at Club 33

For Scott and Diana Anderson, their dream of joining Disneyland Resort’s exclusive Club 33 was a long-awaited achievement, one that came with a hefty price tag. The couple, both 60, waited 12 years to receive their invitation and paid $50,000 in dues for their first year of membership alone.

However, their journey through the club, which once promised unparalleled luxury and magic, ended in a high-stakes legal battle and a staggering $400,000 in legal fees. For the Andersons, the magic of the club began to dwindle as staffing changes took effect, angering the Andersons and other members.

The situation reached a tipping point on September 3, 2017, when Scott Anderson was found by park security in a distressing state near a bench in California Adventure, close to the 1901 Lounge. Allegedly under the influence of alcohol, the incident led to the couple’s expulsion from the prestigious club.

The Andersons’ expulsion marked the beginning of a protracted and costly legal battle. Determined to regain their membership, the couple invested approximately $400,000 in legal efforts to challenge their removal. Despite their efforts, a recent ruling by a panel of jurors upheld Disney’s decision to expel them, citing the company’s adherence to its policies and regulations.

Now, in a bombshell article, the Andersons have let loose and revealed all the secrets and celebrity gossip they learned while they were in Club 33. The membership, which they refer to as “a glorified annual pass,” gave them cut-the-line access to the parks whenever they wanted. In addition, members were allowed to see a special behind-the-scenes piece of the park, including Walt Disney’s apartment, where they were allowed to use the bathroom.

Celebrity Gossip Within Walt Disney’s Club

Speaking candidly, Diana Anderson revealed that members were given unlimited access to the club, with one single restriction: Tom Hanks. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she shared:

“Unless they close the club down because they have Tom Hanks coming for Thanksgiving — then you have to get out by 3:30 p.m.” 

Scott Anderson recounted a particularly frustrating incident involving their friends from San Jose. The incident highlights the special privileges granted to celebrity guests, often at the expense of regular members.

“Absolutely. Our friends called well in advance to secure a prime reservation for Thanksgiving dinner. The club informed them that the latest reservation available was 1:30 p.m. But as they were leaving, Tom Hanks and his family arrived for their private dining experience.”

The Andersons also revealed a controversial disciplinary action involving actress Rebel Wilson. Diana recounted,

“Rebel Wilson got suspended for 30 days after taking a picture in the bathroom. Six months later, she posted a video dancing with Minnie Mouse in the Grand Salon and announced her suspension on The Daily Show.” 

Scott Anderson pointed out another major scandal: Katy Perry’s offer to auction off access to the Club 33 lounge for charity.

“A bigger scandal was Katy Perry offering access to the lounge for charity for $160,000.”

Diana Anderson added:

“You’re not allowed to give your tickets to charities.” 

The Andersons’ revelations provide a rare glimpse into the exclusive world of Club 33, a place shrouded in secrecy and prestige. Their experience underscores the complexities and occasional controversies that come with being a part of Disneyland’s most elusive society. As the Andersons share their story, it’s clear that even within the magic of Disney, the pursuit of exclusivity can lead to unexpected challenges and high-stakes drama.

As Disneyland Resort continues to innovate and expand its offerings, Club 33 and the 1901 Lounge stand as testaments to the park’s enduring appeal and its ability to cater to the most discerning of guests. For those fortunate enough to gain access, these exclusive retreats offer an unparalleled blend of sophistication and Disney magic, enhancing the experience of “the happiest place on Earth” with a touch of ultimate luxury.