…Researched and contributed by Jack Sylva for TDPel Media.
Former Disney princess Hunter Haag, who played Belle and Rapunzel at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, has claimed that the environment of the theme park was “traumatising” to work in.
Haag revealed that cast members had to follow strict rules on their appearance, including undergoing regular body checks to ensure they were “fit and slender” enough.
She added that characters were often treated like “zoo animals” by visitors, while a toxic work environment meant employees would often “sabotage” each other.
Haag also spoke about the physical and mental toll of playing a Disney princess, including the pressure to be happy 100% of the time and the impact of strict appearance requirements.
In a video shared on TikTok, Haag explained that she had to keep her role as a character a secret, claiming that if someone asked what she did for a living, she would say she worked in merchandising in Adventureland.
Haag said that the audition process was traumatizing because it was based solely on looks, and every eight months, cast members underwent body checks to make sure they still fit the character profile.
Failing the check would result in disapproval and termination from the role.
Haag stated that these strict requirements could trigger eating disorders and other mental health issues.
Haag also explained that Disney princesses were not allowed to have tattoos, extra piercings, nail colors, or tan lines, and even temporary disfigurements, such as facial scars from car accidents, could lead to temporary disapproval.
The costumes could cause physical injuries, and the job’s mental pressure could be challenging, requiring performers to be happy all the time.
Despite the downsides, Haag admitted that the job had its positive aspects, such as interacting with guests and forming romantic relationships with other cast members.
Disney World is known as a magical and happy place, so Haag’s revelations about the downsides of working as a Disney princess have come as a surprise to many.
However, her account highlights the physical and emotional pressure that performers face in these roles, and the impact of strict appearance requirements on mental health.
It also raises questions about the treatment of employees in the entertainment industry and the need to balance positive guest experiences with ensuring that workers are treated fairly and respectfully.
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