Walt Disney World is once again facing legal scrutiny—this time over an incident involving a roaming Stormtrooper and a child guest at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
A recently filed lawsuit alleges that a costumed cast member portraying a Stormtrooper caused a child to become so frightened that he flipped out of his stroller, resulting in injuries. The incident took place on December 4, 2023, inside the immersive land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
The lawsuit was filed by Meghann Miller of Arizona, who claims her young son was alone in a stroller when the costumed performer approached. According to the legal documents, the child’s startled reaction led to the stroller tipping over. The complaint references medical expenses and asserts that the accident has had lasting financial impacts on the family.
Miller’s claim accuses Disney of negligence, citing inadequate training and supervision of the cast member involved. The lawsuit argues that Disney failed to account for how such interactions might affect children—especially those too young to differentiate between fantasy and reality.
Additionally, the complaint names stroller manufacturer Safemark Systems as a co-defendant, alleging that product design flaws contributed to the severity of the incident. This expands the case into both personal injury and product liability territory.
To date, neither Disney nor Safemark Systems has issued a public statement regarding the case. Miller’s attorney has also declined to comment.
This lawsuit comes amid a string of legal actions filed against Disney in recent months, including a water park injury case and a now-settled age discrimination suit. Each instance has raised questions about guest safety and corporate accountability within the parks.
The situation also highlights an ongoing debate among parents and fans: should Disney reevaluate how characters interact with young guests? While character roleplay is a central part of the Galaxy’s Edge experience, its intensity may not always be suitable for all visitors.
As this case proceeds, it may have broader implications for how Disney approaches its entertainment strategy in crowded, interactive environments. Whether settled privately or argued in court, it underscores the delicate balance between immersion and guest well-being in modern theme parks.
