Disney on Ice turns into the king of traumatizing experiences for child trapped in rampaging warthog’s path

Taking your child to a Disney On Ice show definitely seems like a safe and enjoyable outing—filled with magic, twinkling lights, and beloved characters gliding gracefully across the ice. It’s usually a perfect opportunity for kids to see their favorite characters come to life in a fun, family-friendly environment. However, as one young boy discovered, things can take a hilariously unexpected turn.

In a viral TikTok video, we see a little boy excitedly leave his seat to get a closer look at the performance. Just as he’s enjoying the spectacle, a giant plush Pumbaa suddenly targets him, leaning ominously over the rink’s edge. The kid, completely taken by surprise, retreats in sheer terror, and it’s a moment that quickly turns from joyful anticipation to a potential nightmare. The whole encounter lasts only a few seconds, but it’s one that the child is likely to remember for a long time—definitely not the experience his parents were hoping for!

The scene feels like something out of a horror movie. With Pumbaa’s unblinking plush face looming over the boy and the silence where the character’s usual playful voice should be, you can’t help but chuckle at the irony of what’s meant to be a delightful experience. Imagine this kid growing up and watching The Lion King—he may find himself reliving those eight seconds of sheer fright every time he sees a wildebeest stampede.

Commenters on the video have had a field day with the incident, dubbing it a “core memory” for the kid. Some even joked that he got a special “4D experience,” while others speculated whether Pumbaa was acting intentionally to keep him safe or if it was just an unfortunate accident. Whatever the case, it certainly added an unexpected twist to what was supposed to be a magical evening.

This brings up an interesting conversation about the effects of Disney media on children. While many parents love the whimsy and adventure found in Disney films, there’s also debate about the underlying messages and themes. For those worried about the impact of Disney on their kids, perhaps an encounter with an overzealous Pumbaa might serve as a memorable deterrent from endless hours in front of Disney Plus!

So, while Disney On Ice typically offers a fantastical escape, this little boy’s experience is a vivid reminder that you never know what surprises might be lurking just off the ice. And who knows? Maybe we’ll soon see a mock horror film titled Timon & Pumbaa & Pain, complete with jump scares and dramatic music!