The Unyielding Battle of Disney Devotees: A Tale of Scott and Diana Anderson

In the world of Disney enthusiasts, few stories capture the imagination and heartache as profoundly as that of Scott and Diana Anderson. This Arizona couple, known for their fervent devotion to all things Disney, found themselves embroiled in a legal battle that has consumed years of their lives and hundreds of thousands of dollars. Their saga is not just about a lost membership; it is a testament to the lengths to which true fans will go to maintain their connection to the magical world of Disney. For the Andersons, Disneyland and its exclusive Club 33 were more than just a pastime—they were an integral part of their identity and social life.

Scott and Diana Anderson were no ordinary Disney fans. Their commitment to the theme park was evident in their frequent visits, which numbered between 60 and 80 times a year. This extraordinary dedication culminated in their membership to Club 33, a prestigious and secretive club within Disneyland that offers its members exclusive perks such as private lounges, fine dining, VIP tours, and special events. The annual dues for this privilege were a staggering $31,500, but for the Andersons, it was a price worth paying for access to their ‘happy place’ and ‘home.’

The couple’s journey to join Club 33 was not an easy one. It took them over a decade on the waiting list before they were finally granted membership in 2012. Once inside, the Andersons embraced the club wholeheartedly, often bringing friends and business associates to share in the magic. They became fixtures at Disneyland, with some estimates suggesting they spent close to $125,000 annually on their Disney excursions. Their love for the park was so intense that they rode the Haunted Mansion nearly 1,000 times as a couple, cementing their status as true Disney aficionados.

However, the fairy tale took a dark turn in September 2017. On the night of September 3rd, Scott Anderson was found near the entrance of California Adventure displaying signs of intoxication. Security guards reported that he had slurred speech, difficulty standing, and a strong smell of alcohol on his breath. These observations led to the immediate revocation of the Andersons’ Club 33 membership, citing a violation of the club’s strict rules against public intoxication. For Diana, a lifelong Disney fan, this was nothing short of heartbreaking.

The Andersons did not take the revocation lightly. They embarked on a legal crusade to clear Scott’s name and regain their cherished membership. Their attorney, Sean Macias, argued that Scott’s symptoms were not due to intoxication but rather a vestibular migraine triggered by alcohol. A medical expert testified in support of this claim, suggesting that the symptoms could easily be mistaken for drunkenness. However, Disney countered with their own neurologist, who asserted that Scott’s behavior was consistent with intoxication. The lack of concrete evidence, such as surveillance footage or breathalyzer tests, further complicated the case.

This was not the first time the Andersons had clashed with Club 33 management. Diana had previously been suspended in 2016 for using foul language, an incident she claimed was retaliation for filing a complaint against another member. The couple’s ongoing disputes with the club painted a picture of a strained relationship, one that ultimately culminated in their expulsion. Despite these challenges, the Andersons remained resolute in their quest for justice, filing a lawsuit against Disney to challenge their ousting and seek reimbursement for their unused membership fees.

The legal battle was arduous and costly. Over the years, the Andersons spent more than $400,000 in legal fees, a sum that significantly impacted their financial stability and delayed Scott’s retirement plans by five years. Despite the mounting expenses, they were determined to fight for what they believed was right. Their attorney argued that Club 33 was not just a club but a sanctuary for the Andersons, a place where they found joy and solace. The couple’s dedication to Disney and their unwavering belief in their cause fueled their relentless pursuit of re-admission.

The courtroom drama reached its climax when an Orange County jury ultimately rejected the Andersons’ claims. The jury found that Disney had acted within its rights to revoke the membership based on the club’s guidelines. The verdict was a devastating blow to the Andersons, who had invested so much emotionally and financially into their fight. Scott and Diana were left grappling with the reality that their beloved ‘happy place’ was now out of reach, at least for the foreseeable future.

Despite the unfavorable outcome, the Andersons refused to give up. They announced their intention to appeal the decision, vowing to continue their battle until they were vindicated. Scott’s determination was evident as he declared his willingness to fight the verdict ‘until the end.’ Diana, equally resolute, expressed her readiness to make any sacrifice necessary to regain their membership, even jokingly suggesting she would sell a kidney if it meant returning to Club 33. Their story, marked by resilience and passion, underscores the deep emotional connection that some individuals have with Disney and its exclusive offerings.

The Andersons’ ordeal sheds light on the stringent rules and high stakes associated with Club 33. Membership in this elite club is not just about access to exclusive perks; it represents a significant investment of time, money, and emotion. For many, including the Andersons, it is a symbol of their devotion to Disney and a source of immense personal fulfillment. The case also highlights the potential consequences of violating club rules, as even the most dedicated members are not immune to expulsion if they fail to adhere to the guidelines.

While some may view the Andersons’ obsession with Disney as excessive, for them, it is a source of happiness and a way of life. Their story resonates with a broader community of ‘Disney adults,’ individuals who share a profound love for the magic and wonder that Disney represents. This subculture is characterized by its members’ willingness to go to great lengths to experience the joy that Disney brings, whether through frequent park visits, collecting memorabilia, or, in the Andersons’ case, fighting legal battles to maintain their connection to the brand.

As the Andersons prepare for the next phase of their legal journey, their story continues to captivate and inspire. It serves as a reminder of the power of passion and the lengths to which people will go to preserve what they hold dear. For Scott and Diana Anderson, Disney is more than just a theme park; it is a cherished part of their lives, a source of countless memories, and a symbol of their unwavering dedication. Whether or not they succeed in their quest to rejoin Club 33, their story will remain a poignant example of the enduring allure of Disney and the extraordinary devotion it inspires in its most ardent fans.