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Influencers Stir Up Controversy by Crashing Epic Universe Family Previews
Just when the excitement for Epic Universe couldn’t get any higher, a new controversy has bubbled up—and it’s not coming from a mysterious bog in Dark Universe.
Universal Orlando is currently in the midst of its second wave of Team Member previews for the highly anticipated Epic Universe, set to officially open on May 22, 2025. These previews are meant to be a well-earned perk for Universal’s hardworking Team Members, giving them the chance to explore the park before the general public. While the first wave only allowed Team Members solo access, the current phase expanded the invitation list to include up to three family members per visit. And that’s where things have gotten… a little less than epic.
Related: Comcast Shares the Economic Impact of Epic Universe
Universal made it clear in their communications that these previews were strictly for Team Members and their families—defined as spouses, children, siblings, parents, or those close enough to be considered family. But according to several Team Members on social media, it looks like some people have been stretching that definition like Pinocchio stretches the truth.
Reports are surfacing that influencers, vloggers, and content creators have been sneaking into the family previews by persuading a Team Member to pass them off as their “cousin,” “bestie,” or maybe just that friend you invite to Thanksgiving once (likely for a fee). Once inside, these self-proclaimed “family members” have gone straight into content-creation mode—filming, reviewing, posting, and answering fan questions online, despite strict no-photography policies in place for the previews. While merchandise pics taken off-site are allowed, anything from inside the park? That’s a big Universal no-no.
Universal isn’t taking the situation lightly. Not only is this a violation of the preview policies, but Team Members caught bending the rules could face serious consequences, including potential termination. And for what? A few early clicks and a race to beat the content curve?
Related: Universal Shares First Look at Epic Universe Team Member Costumes
Fans online are understandably frustrated. Many see this as influencers gaming the system, taking advantage of a benefit meant to reward Universal’s cast of thousands who’ve worked tirelessly behind the scenes. It also adds an unfair layer to the playing field for both legitimate family members and media outlets patiently waiting for official media days to roll around.
The Team Member Family Previews are currently scheduled to run through April 5. No additional previews have been announced—yet—but let this serve as a cautionary tale: trying to pass as Uncle Bob’s third cousin twice removed for early theme park access? Not worth it.
As the countdown to the grand opening continues, let’s hope the next headline coming from Epic Universe is about how incredible the park is—not about who managed to sneak in early.
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