It’s been a sad day for many Cast Members, including Yehaa Bob Jackson who is known for playing at the River Roost Lounge at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside.
On Sept. 29, the layoff news of approximately 28,000 domestic employees across all of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products (of which about 67% are part time) was announced.
Jackson took to Facebook on the same day as the layoff announcement revealing he and his act will not be returning (currently, both Riverside and French Quarter remain closed) to the River Roost Lounge.
“And that’s how it ends, not with a bang but with a whimper,” he wrote. “I’ve just learned my act will not be returning to Disney. I made so many friends over the last 23 years, it was a great time, we had a lot of laughs together. I’ll be continuing my Sunday shows for now. I’ll keep you posted, I’m still digesting all of this-”
Bob Jackson/Facebook
Regarding “Sunday Shows,” Jackson is referring to shows he performs virtually on Facebook.
As previously mentioned, the news that 28,000 Cast Members are being laid off was announced on Sept. 29. Josh D’Amaro, the Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, released a statement on Tuesday announcing the devastating news.
“In light of the prolonged impact of COVID-19 on our business, including limited capacity due to physical distancing requirements and the continued uncertainty regarding the duration of the pandemic – exacerbated in California by the State’s unwillingness to lift restrictions that would allow Disneyland to reopen – we have made the very difficult decision to begin the process of reducing our workforce at our Parks, Experiences and Products segment at all levels, having kept non-working Cast Members on furlough since April, while paying healthcare benefits,” the statement reads in part.
According to Scott Gustin, layoffs will affect “executive, salaried, and hourly roles.”
Both the layoff news and Jackson’s termination follows the Grand Floridian Disney Society Orchestra revealing on Sept. 26 that their final performance will be on Oct. 3 at Hollywood Studios. The orchestra is currently playing at the Theater of the Stars as the “Disney Society Orchestra.”
However, it was announced that First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration will return to Hollywood Studios on Oct. 5. (The Actors’ Equity Association and Disney reached an agreement in August allowing them to return to work.)
These are certainly tough times for many. Unfortunately, there will continue to be a mix of both good and bad news as time goes on. We will of course keep you updated.
If you want to help, you may want to check out the Cast Member Pantry, an organization helping Cast Members to feed themselves and their families, and Unite Here 737, a local union mainly representing Disney hotel housekeepers and food service workers.
The following products and services give us a commission on sales.
Get our free Quick Start Guide
Have our guide delivered right to your inbox with our 6-step Disney World planning process to make it less overwhelming. Snag our free guide ➡️
Take our course
Check out our course that will help you learn all about Walt Disney World planning with dozens of videos and downloadables for each step along the way. Get access now ➡️
Our recommend travel agency
We partner with Small World Vacations, Diamond Level Authorized Disney Vacations Planners in business since 1996. Get a quote now ➡️
Want to stay deluxe on a moderate budget?
It’s 1 of our top fave ways to save! By renting DVC points, you can stay in deluxe accommodations for a fraction of the price. Check availability ➡️
Private car service
Quicksilver Tours will transport you in style. They assist with luggage at the airport, provide car seats, and include a free grocery stop. Book your car ➡️
Need a stroller, wheelchair, or scooter?
Buena Vista Scooters is a company with a great reputation who offers in-person resort drop off and pick up of strollers, scooters, and wheelchairs. Book your rental ➡️
Amazon recommendations
Check out our Amazon shop with trip essentials we love. Start shopping ➡️
WDW Prep merch
Get WDW Prep merch to show off your Disney knowledge (especially fun for spotting others during your trip!). Check out the WDW Prep merch shop ➡️
- Be Our Guest review: is it worth it? - September 21, 2023
- Cinderella’s Royal Table lunch & dinner review: is it worth it? - September 21, 2023
- Best Vegetarian Options at Epcot Food and Wine 2023 - September 18, 2023