Former child actor Steven Anthony Lawrence has alleged that Universal Studios Hollywood terminated his employment in retaliation for reporting a person he believed posed a danger to children at the theme park. Lawrence, best known for playing Bernard “Beans” Aranguren on the Disney Channel series Even Stevens, shared his claims in a post on social media.
Alongside a photo showing his work ID badge placed next to a costume he wore while performing at the park, Lawrence said he waited weeks before speaking publicly in the hope that the situation could be resolved privately.
“I delayed posting this for about a month because I was hoping we could find some sort of amicable solution,” he wrote.
Lawrence, now 35, said he genuinely enjoyed his job and the people he worked with, noting that the decision to speak out did not come easily. “I absolutely loved performing and dancing with all you amazing people,” he added.
Despite that attachment, Lawrence said his employment was abruptly ended after he raised concerns internally. “It is with a heavy heart that I have to announce that my time with Universal Studios has ended,” he wrote.
According to Lawrence, his firing came after he reported what he described as a “suspected pedophile around children.” He claimed that both his direct supervisor and a human resources representative were involved in the decision to let him go, framing the move as retaliation for speaking up.
“While I will truly miss my job, I cannot be associated with an organization or people that don’t care about performer or guest safety while numerous people continue to get hurt,” Lawrence said in his post.
He also made it clear that the experience has permanently changed how he views the theme park. Although he admitted he misses the work, Lawrence said he would not return and would not bring his own child there in the future.
“With what I know, I WILL NEVER ALLOW MY KID TO GO TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD Be safe, everyone,” he concluded.
Lawrence did not provide additional details about the individual he reported or whether the matter was referred to law enforcement. Universal Studios Hollywood has not publicly responded to the allegations or commented on the circumstances surrounding his termination.
Lawrence rose to prominence in the early 2000s as the mischievous and fan-favorite “Beans” on Even Stevens, which ran for three seasons and helped launch the careers of several young actors. Since then, he has remained active in entertainment and performance-related work, including live events and appearances.
His claims have sparked discussion online about workplace whistleblowers, performer safety, and how large entertainment venues handle reports involving children. Supporters praised Lawrence for speaking out, while others called for greater transparency from theme park operators when allegations of this nature are raised.
As of now, Lawrence says he stands by his decision to report his concerns, even at the cost of a job he says he loved.
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