Ex-Disney star claims Universal fired him after reporting ‘suspected pedophile’

A former Disney Channel star has claimed he was fired from Universal Studios after reporting what he described as a disturbing incident involving a ‘suspected pedophile.’

Steven Anthony Lawrence, best known for playing Bernard ‘Beans’ Aranguren on Even Stevens, shared the allegation in an Instagram post on January 3.

The Disney star said Universal ended his employment after he raised concerns internally, describing the move as retaliation.

“I delayed posting this for about a month because I was hoping we could find some sort of amicable solution,” Lawrence wrote. “It is with a heavy heart I have to announce that my time with Universal Studios has ended.”

Lawrence alleged that a supervisor and a human resources employee made the decision to fire him following his report.

Lawrence said he could not remain with an organisation he believes does not prioritise safety. He did not share details about the alleged incident or individual involved.

The former actor said he stands by his actions and would not return to the job, adding a warning: “With what I know, I will never allow my kid to go to Universal Studios Hollywood.”

Universal Studios strongly denied the claims in a statement to Parade on January 4.

The company said it investigated the concerns raised by Lawrence and found them ‘inaccurate and without merit,’ adding that it takes employee concerns seriously and allows staff to raise issues without fear of retaliation.