Disney has reversed its stance on a wrongful death lawsuit brought by the widower of a woman who died after eating at a resort restaurant. The company has agreed to waive its right to arbitration, allowing the case to proceed in court.
What happened?
The lawsuit was filed by Jeffrey Piccolo, who alleges that his late wife, Kanokporn Tangsuan, suffered a fatal allergic reaction to a meal she consumed at a park restaurant in 2023. Disney had initially argued that Piccolo’s Disney+ streaming service contract prevented him from suing the company for the alleged wrongful death.
Disney’s lawyers had claimed that Piccolo’s use of the Walt Disney Parks’ website to purchase Epcot Center tickets also shielded the company from liability.
U-turn (after backlash)
However, Josh D’Amaro, the chairman of Disney Experiences, announced on Monday that the company would be waiving its right to arbitration.
“At Disney, we strive to put humanity above all other considerations,” D’Amaro said in a statement sent to CNN. “With such unique circumstances as the ones in this case, we believe this situation warrants a sensitive approach to expedite a resolution for the family who have experienced such a painful loss.”
What’s next?
The case can now proceed in court. Piccolo is seeking damages in excess of $50,000 pursuant to Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, as well as damages for mental pain and suffering, loss of companionship and protection, loss of income, and medical and funeral expenses.
