Indiana Jones Stunt Show Halted After Cast Member Injured During Live Performance

A dramatic moment unfolded at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on December 30, 2025 when a key prop from the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! veered off its track during a performance and began rolling toward seated spectators. The show, one of the most beloved live action attractions at the park, recreates thrilling moments from Raiders of the Lost Ark using practical stunts, large props, and real performers.

What Happened During the Show

During the climactic sequence of the stunt show, commonly referred to as the “boulder scene” a large rubber prop boulder weighing approximately 400 pounds (around 181 kilograms) became dislodged from its intended path and started moving toward the audience. Rather than continuing on its scripted track, the prop bounced off its platform and rolled in a direction it was not supposed to take.

In a split-second decision, a Cast Member stepped into the boulder’s path to divert it and protect guests. The runaway prop struck him, knocking him to the ground and causing a head injury. Another Cast Member eventually intervened and stopped the boulder before it reached audience members, preventing what could have been a much more serious situation.

Immediate Reaction and Response

Guests in the theater reacted with shock as the scene abruptly stopped. Cast Members swiftly assisted the injured staff member and escorted him off the stage area. One scheduled performance was canceled that day following the incident, and Disney confirmed that subsequent shows were modified to remove the boulder element entirely while safety reviews took place.

Disney representatives also stated that the injured worker is recovering and has received support. Out of respect for privacy, the company has not released specific details about the severity of his injuries.

Disney’s Safety Commitment and Future Modifications

In a statement to news outlets, Disney said it is focused on supporting the Cast Member as he recovers, and emphasised that safety is at the heart of all its operations. The company additionally confirmed that the specific scene involving the prop will be modified as part of a review by its safety teams to ensure such an incident does not happen again.

This review process is typical in theme parks when unscripted events occur, particularly with live performances that involve moving set elements and stunts. Disney regularly inspects, rehearses, and updates its shows, but this incident underscores that even carefully engineered entertainment can encounter unforeseen challenges.

Why It Matters

The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular! has been entertaining guests at Hollywood Studios since 1989 and remains one of the few Disney attractions that showcases real-time stunt work rather than simulation or screens. Its popularity stems from allowing audiences to see how cinematic magic is created using practical effects and performers.

Because the show uses live personnel and sizeable dynamic props, there is an inherent degree of risk, although incidents of this nature are rare. When they do occur, Disney’s protocols ensure that performers and guests alike are protected. In this case, the quick thinking of the staff member likely prevented injuries to the audience, and the protocols already in place ensured an immediate and organised response.

Behind the Wish Takeaway

For visitors planning trips to Walt Disney World, moments like this serve as a powerful reminder that the magic on stage is crafted by real performers and teams operating in real time. The experience of seeing live stunt work is thrilling precisely because it involves human skill, split-second timing, and physical action, elements that machine-based attractions simply do not replicate.

When incidents happen, parks often pause, change, or review those experiences to keep guests and performers safe. As Disney refines this beloved show, fans can trust that their protection and enjoyment come first, and that behind every stunt sequence is a group of Cast Members dedicated to bringing beloved stories to life.