The magic of Disney has turned dark for a group of plus-sized influencers from Massachusetts after they were viciously ridiculed by Boston sports radio hosts. The hosts, Fred Toucher and Rob “Hardy” Poole of 98.5 The Sports Hub, unleashed a torrent of cruel and tasteless jokes about the “Plus Sized Park Hoppers,” a group dedicated to celebrating their Disney adventures despite their size.
The radio show segment crossed all lines of decency as the hosts resorted to name-calling, with “fatsos” being one of the milder insults. They also made demeaning remarks about the influencers’ enjoyment of Disney parks, suggesting that they should “sit in the water like seals” to be fed fish, and even mocked the idea of dumpster-diving for leftover food.
This latest controversy follows a pattern of insensitivity from the hosts, who have previously faced criticism for their remarks about NBA legend Bill Walton after his recent passing. The vitriol aimed at the Park Hoppers has sparked outrage among listeners and fans alike, who are demanding accountability.
Stephanie Lanciani, one of the five members of the Plus Sized Park Hoppers, has publicly condemned the radio show’s remarks as “vile and disgusting.” She expressed her dismay to the Daily Mail, emphasizing that the cruel commentary is especially hurtful given that the group’s video had simply addressed a common issue—“Disney rash”—caused by walking long hours in the Florida heat.
“It’s just something that’s caused by heat and exercise. It’s common for a lot of different people of all different sizes,” Lanciani said. “To be attacked in such a personal and hurtful way by a local show makes it sting even more.”
The backlash against Toucher and Hardy has been swift and intense. The radio duo has been blasted on social media, with many calling for a formal apology from the station. Fans of the Plus Sized Park Hoppers are vocally criticizing the radio hosts for their disgraceful behavior, tagging 98.5 The Sports Hub in posts demanding an apology.
@themouselets please help hold @98.5 The Sports Hub @Toucher & Hardy accountable. It’s unacceptable. This episode needs to be taken down and a formal apology issued. #disneyworld #disneycreators #disneyinfluencers #disneyparks #epcot #magickingdom #disneynews #wdwnt ♬ original sound – The Mouselets
@themouselets please help hold @98.5 The Sports Hub @Toucher & Hardy accountable. It’s unacceptable. This episode needs to be taken down and a formal apology issued. #disneyworld #disneycreators #disneyinfluencers #disneyparks #epcot #magickingdom #disneynews #wdwnt ♬ original sound – The Mouselets
“How horrifying!!!” one outraged supporter wrote on social media. “Who the hell do you think you are that makes it okay to talk about people like this! You are disgusting,” another added.
Despite the harsh criticism, there is a silver lining. Supporters of the Plus Sized Park Hoppers have rallied around the group, defending them against online trolls and showing solidarity. Lanciani noted that the Disney community has come together to offer support, helping to counteract the negativity.
“It’s been heartening to see how the Disney community has stepped up for us,” Lanciani said. “We’ve had so many people reach out and show us support during this difficult time.”
In a larger sense, this incident serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of unchecked public commentary and the importance of respecting individuals regardless of their size or appearance. As the Plus Sized Park Hoppers continue their mission to inspire others to embrace their love for Disney, the need for kindness and empathy remains more pressing than ever.
