Disney's Streaming Service in Lawsuit Controversy
- Widower of doctor who died from allergic reaction at Disney resort is suing for wrongful death.
- Disney is defending itself in court by arguing that the widower can't sue because he once signed up for their streaming service.
- The family's lawyers are calling Disney's defense 'absurd' and are urging the judge to reject the motion to dismiss.
Disney representatives are defending their legal strategy in response to a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Jeffrey Piccolo, whose wife, Dr. Kanokporn Tangsuan, died after an allergic reaction at Raglan Road Irish Pub in Disney Springs, Florida. The lawsuit alleges that Tangsuan, who had severe allergies to dairy and nuts, was assured by the restaurant staff that her meal would be allergen-free. Tragically, she collapsed shortly after dining and later died in the hospital from anaphylaxis. Disney's legal team has moved to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that Piccolo agreed to arbitration terms when he signed up for a free trial of the Disney+ streaming service in 2019 and again when purchasing park tickets in 2023. The company contends that these terms require all disputes to be settled through arbitration, which they claim applies to all affiliates, including Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Disney's spokesperson expressed sympathy for the family's loss but emphasized that the restaurant is independently operated. Piccolo's attorneys have criticized Disney's dismissal motion as "preposterous," arguing that it unfairly limits the rights of consumers to seek justice in court. They assert that the arbitration clause should not apply to wrongful death claims, especially since Tangsuan never agreed to the terms. A hearing on the matter is scheduled for October 2, 2024, as the legal battle continues over the implications of the arbitration agreement.