Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.
Indiana Jones Stunt Show Cast Member Returns After Stopping Runaway Boulder at Hollywood Studios
One of the most dramatic real-life moments ever to happen during the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has come full circle, as Cast Member Robert Herrick has officially returned to the show nearly five months after being injured protecting guests from a runaway prop boulder.
Related: Celebrate 10 Years of Tiffins Restaurant with Fresh New Flavors at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The incident happened during a December 30, 2025 performance when the attraction’s massive 400-pound rubber boulder unexpectedly jumped its track during the iconic opening temple sequence. Instead of rolling safely along its intended path, the prop reportedly bounced toward audience members seated near the front rows of the theater.
Herrick, a longtime performer in the show and 36-year veteran Cast Member, reacted instantly. Witnesses say he moved directly between the boulder and the audience, taking the impact himself before the prop could continue toward guests.
Video from the incident quickly spread online, showing Herrick getting back to his feet with visible injuries after stopping the runaway prop. Guests in attendance described the moment as terrifying, with one person heard saying, “He literally saved our lives.”
In later interviews, Herrick revealed he suffered fractured vertebrae in his neck, specifically C6 and C7, along with cuts requiring stitches. He also spent weeks recovering in a neck brace. Despite the attention surrounding the incident, Herrick consistently downplayed his actions, saying he simply reacted to protect the audience.
Now, according to local reports, Herrick officially returned to the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular this week, making his first performances since the accident. Fellow Cast Members reportedly welcomed him back with signs reading “The boulder didn’t stop you” and calling him “an inspiration to us all.”
Meanwhile, the famous boulder itself is still absent from the show.
Related: How to Plan the Ultimate Cool Kids Summer at Disney World
Disney temporarily modified the opening sequence immediately after the incident, removing the rolling boulder effect entirely while safety teams reviewed what caused the malfunction. Nearly five months later, the altered version of the show remains in place, with the stunt sequence ending before the boulder moment occurs.
The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular has been a fan-favorite at Disney’s Hollywood Studios since 1989 and remains one of the park’s last surviving opening-day attractions. The giant rolling boulder scene has long been one of the show’s most iconic moments, inspired directly by Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Get all the best Disney News
and more, straight to your inbox!
We don't spam. Read our privacy policy for more info.
For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
Let our friends at Get Away Today help you book your next Disney or Universal Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.
