Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, a long-standing dinner theater attraction, is facing multiple lawsuits from former employees who allege a pervasive culture of animal cruelty, sexual harassment, gender discrimination, bullying, and retaliation. These claims have cast a shadow over the company's 43-year history of providing a medieval-themed dining and entertainment experience.
A civil lawsuit filed in June by Kaitlyn Farrell, a former cast member at the Buena Park, California, location, details allegations of a "two-tiered workplace culture" where female employees are treated as "a lesser class of employee." Farrell, who worked as a "queen" for five years before resigning in February 2024, claims that unwanted sexual advances and gender-based misconduct were normalized and that complaints were met with indifference. The lawsuit also alleges that after participating in a strike in February 2023, Farrell became the target of a "sexualized cyberbullying and doxxing campaign," including the posting of her dating history and manipulated images. Her attorney stated they look forward to proving these allegations in court.
Farrell's lawsuit is not the first to raise serious concerns. In a 2019 lawsuit, former employee Bethany Regan alleged that female cast members were treated less favorably than their male counterparts. Regan also reported concerns about the welfare of the horses, detailing claims that the head trainer whipped horses unnecessarily, causing welts, and overworked them to the point of dehydration, with one horse allegedly dying as a result. Regan stated she was suspended for "starting rumors" and subsequently terminated after making formal complaints. This lawsuit was settled in 2020 under undisclosed terms.
In response to the allegations, former employee Bill Elliot, who worked as a knight for over 12 years at the same location, called the claims "false." Elliot stated that the company provided good pay, full benefits, and a 401K, and suggested that those making claims were seeking financial gain. He also commented on the interactions between female cast members and knights, implying that unfulfilled advances led to the current allegations.
Yvonne Barteau, who previously worked as a principal trainer and director of entertainment operations at the now-closed Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction in Florida, spoke about the dynamics within dinner theater jobs. She noted that while she met good people, some individuals got "too into their role" and that upper management sometimes failed to address inappropriate behavior. Barteau also emphasized the importance of advocating for animals, stating there is no excuse for abuse, while also defending the idea that performance horses can enjoy their work and the attention they receive.