Most Complimented Disney World Cast Member Receives the Walt Disney Legacy Award

Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios often encounter PhotoPass photographers who capture magical moments with iconic backdrops such as the Chinese Theater, Toy Story Land, and Echo Lake. Among these cast members, Willie Jackson stands out for his bright smile, warm greetings, and ability to make guests feel like stars.

Willie has spent 15 years spreading joy and creating lasting memories for countless guests. His enthusiasm and positive spirit recently earned him the Walt Disney Legacy Award, a prestigious honor given to outstanding cast members worldwide who exemplify Walt Disney's enduring legacy.

What is the Walt Disney Legacy Award?

The Walt Disney Legacy Award celebrates cast, crew, and Imagineers across the globe who embody Walt Disney's spirit by dreaming, creating, and inspiring. This global recognition program honors those who consistently give their best to guests, colleagues, and the company.

Willie is among a select few chosen this year, as fewer than 1% of cast members across Disney Experiences receive this honor. In the coming weeks, additional surprise moments will celebrate other deserving cast members around the world.

The award recognizes the three Legacy qualities: Dream, Create, and Inspire, which Willie exemplifies daily through his exceptional service and energy.

Last year, Willie set the record as the most complimented cast member at Walt Disney World after receiving more than 1,000 Mobile Cast Compliments from guests spanning the globe.

Guests frequently interact with Willie while he directs photo scenes with enthusiasm and creativity, making them the stars of their own story within Hollywood Studios.

Over 1.4 million compliments have been submitted by guests across Walt Disney World, with Willie alone earning over 1,000 — a testament to his impact and dedication.

To recognize a cast member's positive impact during a visit, guests can submit compliments via the My Disney Experience app by selecting 'Cast Compliment' from the menu.

Cast Members Talk About What Makes Willie an Inspirational Choice

Disney cast members have the opportunity to nominate coworkers who exemplify Disney’s values. Willie’s peers shared their admiration for his embodiment of the Legacy qualities: Dream, Create, and Inspire.

They describe Willie as someone who not only brings happiness but creates lifelong memories. He brings the magic of Hollywood Studios to life by directing guests like stars on a set. His imaginative and fun energy inspires both cast and guests alike.

Willie Receives His Surprise Fit for a Star

After 15 years of dedicated service, Willie was surprised by over 100 PhotoPass photographers and Disney leaders who honored him as one of the newest Walt Disney Legacy Award recipients.

Joyful and grateful, Willie reflected on the honor, thanking everyone who supported him throughout his journey and sharing how meaningful this recognition is to him.

I’m so joyful and grateful to receive The Walt Disney Legacy Award. I appreciate everyone who supported me from my leaders to peers, what an honor!

His story reminds everyone of Walt Disney's belief that creating magical experiences requires people to bring dreams to life.

The blue Legacy name tag symbolizes this special achievement, highlighting those who inspire and create magic every day at Disney Parks worldwide.

Congratulations to Willie and all Walt Disney Legacy Award honorees for showing what it means to Dream, Create, and Inspire.

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To read more about this, visit the Official Disney Parks Blog post here.
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