Lynn Frey, known as “Lynn the Mime,” was a beloved performer at SeaWorld Orlando for 36 years before being fired following a dispute with a security guard. Frey claimed he was not allowed to share his side of the story with his bosses before being let go from his position. In a TikTok video that gained over 2.8 million views, Frey explained that he had always driven to work with his bicycle hanging off the back of his car and had never encountered any issues until the incident with the security guard.
The disagreement with the security guard occurred when Frey rode past a checkpoint on his bike and was told by the guard that he was not allowed to ride his bike on the park’s property. Despite explaining that he had been doing so for years and not finding any official rules prohibiting it, Frey was still not permitted to ride inside the park. The security guard’s claim that Frey had used inappropriate language and behaved aggressively towards him led to Frey’s termination from SeaWorld, despite his denial of the allegations.
Frey was not given the opportunity to share his side of the story with SeaWorld management, leading to his abrupt dismissal after 36 years of service. He expressed disappointment in not being able to do one last show for his friends and family before leaving the park. In response, Frey’s daughter set up a GoFundMe page to help her father start his own road show company, garnering support from outraged fans who believed Frey’s long tenure at SeaWorld deserved more consideration.
Many supporters of Frey expressed their belief that SeaWorld should have given him a chance to explain his version of events before making a decision to terminate his employment. Some even suggested that patrons should chant “Lynn the Mime” before every show in protest of SeaWorld’s actions. Despite the outpouring of support from fans and the creation of the GoFundMe page, Frey was still left feeling disappointed by the sudden end to his career at the park and the lack of opportunity he was given to defend himself.
The incident has raised questions about employee rights and loyalty within companies, with supporters highlighting the importance of allowing employees to share their side of the story before facing consequences. Frey’s case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by long-term employees in navigating disputes with management and the impact of sudden terminations on their livelihoods. While the details of Frey’s departure from SeaWorld remain contested, the widespread support for him from fans and the online community has shed light on the power of social media in exposing perceived injustices within organizations.
