“Questionable” Disney World Princess Tiana Costume Under Fire

A runDisney participant has sparked controversy with her Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Splash Mountain-inspired costume at Walt Disney World Resort‘s 2023 Disney Wine & Dine 10K earlier this month. While many runners embrace Disney-themed outfits to celebrate the event, this Disney Park guest’s costume has drawn criticism on social media, with some calling it “questionable” and accusing her of cultural insensitivity.

Michelle (@michellehusslein on TikTok) shared a video showcasing her Princess Tiana outfit, which she paired with another runner’s Br’er Rabbit costume. The duo staged a lighthearted skit during the event, with Br’er Rabbit handing over the Splash Mountain “deed” to Princess Tiana, referencing the transformation of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure earlier this year.

@michellehusslein

Passing down the mountain🐸🐰 #rundisney #disney #tiana #splashmountain #disneyworld #princessandthefrog

♬ original sound – Blameitonkway

While the video received some praise for creativity, it quickly became a focal point of online debate. Critics accused Michelle of using bronzer to darken her skin, a choice they likened to blackface, a historically offensive practice.

“I was at the race and saw her on the Jumbotron there,” one runDisney racer wrote on Reddit, arguing that the costume was “questionable.”

“Questionable at best,” another commenter said. “It’s definitely giving blackface lite.”

“Uh, is that a white lady?” one person replied.

Despite the backlash, not everyone agreed with the criticism. Several TikTok commenters praised Michelle’s Princess and the Frog (2009) costume, calling it imaginative and harmless.

“Omg I ran with you guys today, you guys killed it with the costume,” one runDisney racer wrote.

“This deserves to go so viral,” another added. “Pure gold.”

Michelle has not publicly addressed the allegations, and it remains unclear whether she used bronzer or another darkening makeup as part of her Princess Tiana Wine and Dine 10K costume.

Was this Disney Wine and Dine 10K runner’s Splash Mountain/Tiana’s Bayou Adventure costume offensive? Share your thoughts with Disney Fanatic in the comments.