In February, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. was sued by Jeffrey Piccolo, as personal representative of the estate of his late wife, Kanokporn Tangshan, who—as the complaint alleges—died after having an allergic reaction to food consumed at a restaurant located on Disney property (Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant). While tragic, the mere fact that Disney was sued for injuries sustained at one of its parks—even a wrongful death case—is not necessarily newsworthy (child being eaten by an alligator excepted) as it happens on a weekly, possibly daily basis. What is newsworthy about this case is the defense raised by Disney, and specifically the public backlash to that defense.

The Piccolo complaint alleges that on the evening of Oct. 5, 2023, Jeffrey Piccolo, his late wife, and her mother were dining at the Raglan Road restaurant located in Disney Springs, Walt Disney World Florida. It is further alleged that the group, being aware that Tangshan (a medical doctor by trade) was severely allergic to dairy products and nuts, chose to dine at Raglan Road because it advertised on the Disney World website that Raglan Road would accommodate those with food allergies; allegedly even going so far as to say that guests could consult with the chefs and a specially trained cast members prior to placing an order. Needless to say, the group ate at the restaurant that night, and they allege they questioned the waitstaff on numerous occasions throughout the service to ensure that the food was allergen free.