In a dramatic scene that was captured on video and quickly went viral, a 400-pound (180-kg) rubber prop boulder—a staple of the show’s opening sequence—dislodged from its predetermined track. Instead of stopping at the stage edge as scripted, the boulder continued to roll toward the unsuspecting guests in the front rows.
Witnesses say a Disney cast member named Robert, a former stuntman, didn’t hesitate. He lunged in front of the accelerating prop, using his body to halt its momentum and deflect it away from the crowd.
A “Life-Saving” Intervention
Footage shows the intense impact of the 180-kg ball knocking Robert to the ground. While he successfully stopped the boulder, he sustained a significant head wound in the process.
- Immediate Aftermath: Other staff members rushed to Robert’s side as he stood up, with onlookers noting his head was “bleeding quite a bit.” Despite his injuries, Robert reportedly waved to the crowd as he was ushered backstage, receiving a standing ovation from the emotional audience.
- Hero Status: Guest Drew Bruinsma, who was sitting in the impact zone, told reporters, “A worker named Robert stepped in front and saved us from getting smashed. He literally saved our lives.”
- Recovery Update: Friends of the performer later shared on social media that Robert received six stitches but is in good spirits and recovering well.
Disney’s Official Response
Disney World released a statement on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, confirming the incident and the cast member’s recovery status.
“We’re focused on supporting our cast member, who is recovering. Safety is at the heart of what we do, and that element of the show will be modified as our safety team completes a review of what happened.”
Show Modifications:
- Temporary Changes: While the “Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular” continues to run, the iconic boulder sequence has been temporarily removed or modified while investigators determine why the prop jumped its track.
- Safety Review: Disney’s safety team is currently conducting a “top-to-bottom” review of the mechanical systems used in the 35-year-old show to prevent a recurrence.