Ariana Grande's Mother's Wish for Ashes at Cinderella Castle

Ariana Grande, the renowned pop singer and actress, recently shared a rather unique wish from her mother, Joan. During an episode of the Las Culturistas podcast, Grande revealed that her mother has expressed a desire to have her ashes scattered at the iconic Cinderella Castle in Disney World. This request, while amusing to Grande, highlights the deep affection her mother has for Disney and its magical atmosphere.

Grande, who is currently promoting her role in the upcoming musical Wicked, recounted her mother’s persistent request. She humorously noted, "My mom tells us way too often that she wants her ashes sprinkled over [Cinderella Castle]." Grande often finds herself responding with a light-hearted, "Mom, it’s Christmas," only to be met with her mother’s insistence that the wish must be fulfilled. This playful exchange showcases the loving relationship between Grande and her mother, as well as Joan's unwavering passion for Disney.

However, fulfilling this wish may prove to be quite challenging due to Disney's strict policies. According to a report from the Wall Street Journal in 2018, Disney has made it clear that scattering ashes in any of their parks is "strictly prohibited and unlawful." Guests who attempt to do so are promptly escorted off the property, and the affected attractions undergo a thorough cleanup process, known as a "HEPA cleanup." This policy is in place to maintain the park's cleanliness and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Despite these regulations, there have been numerous attempts by guests to scatter ashes at various locations within the parks, particularly at the Haunted Mansion. A Disney custodian humorously remarked, "The Haunted Mansion probably has so much human ashes in it that it’s not even funny," indicating that popular spots for such activities include flower beds, the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, and even the moat surrounding Dumbo the Flying Elephant.

While Joan's dream of having her ashes at Cinderella Castle may remain just that—a dream—it certainly provides a humorous insight into her love for Disney. This story serves as a reminder of the special connections families share and the lengths to which they will go to honor their loved ones' wishes. In a world where magic and memories intertwine, it is heartwarming to see how even the most whimsical requests can bring a smile and a sense of nostalgia.