A couple spent $400,000 trying to get back into a secret Disney club (4 photos)

Two Disney devotees have spent a fortune in legal fees trying to regain access to the prestigious "33 Club." Scott and Diane Anderson, 60, of Arizona, had their memberships revoked for alcohol abuse.





The original building in Anaheim, California, is marked only by the number 33 on a small plaque. It was where the Andersons spent their five years of vacation.



To join Club 33, you must deposit $33,000 and contribute $15,000 annually. Members gain access to VIP lounges, special events, celebrity parties, and other perks at all Disney resorts, including dining by world-renowned chefs.

The Andersons saved for 20 years and waited another 10 years on a waiting list before they could afford the privilege.

Since becoming part of an exclusive group of Mickey Mouse fans in 2012, Scott and Diane have visited Anaheim 60 to 80 times a year. They spent around $125,000 on their trips to the "happiest place on earth."

Scott claims they befriended some celebrities, including Kurt Russell and Dick Van Dyke.

But the fairy tale ended in 2017 when Scott was found intoxicated at Disneyland.





The man denied being drunk, but admitted to drinking a few beers and some wine. He also said his unsteady gait was due to vestibular migraines, a condition he has suffered from for years.

The couple has spent the last seven years desperately trying to get their membership cards back, spending tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees.

The Andersons are suing Disney for $10,500 in unused membership time, as well as $231,000 in compensation for the seven years they were blacklisted.

Last week, an Orange County, California, judge ruled in favor of the Walt Disney Company.



Scott, the golf course owner, admitted that the legal costs will delay his retirement by five years. However, he does not regret the lawsuit, telling the Los Angeles Times that the costs amounted to about $400,000.

But Diana has vowed to continue the fight, and is ready to sell a kidney to return to the club.

According to Jonathan Phillips, a lawyer for Disney, because of Scott's actions, his wife lost her lifelong dream - the opportunity to visit "Club 33".