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Disney World’s ‘Aunt Elaine’ Reflects on 50 Years Following Service Celebration

Her interactive persona at 50’s Prime Time Café illustrates Disney’s culture of long service that fosters deep guest connections.

Overview

  • Elaine West Grimes joined Walt Disney World in 1975 and reached her 50th anniversary in 2025, continuing to serve guests today.
  • She has spent about 25 years as “Aunt Elaine” at Hollywood Studios’ 50’s Prime Time Café, where servers play family roles and deliver playful table‑manner reminders.
  • She took part in Disney’s East Coast Service Celebration on Jan. 27, enjoying exclusive after‑hours access to Magic Kingdom with fellow honorees.
  • Disney marked her milestone with a commemorative Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs statue recognizing her half‑century of service.
  • A devoted fan community and decades of repeat visitors celebrate her work, a loyalty Disney situates within an 80% retention rate and a 12‑year average tenure.