The Walt Disney Co. has agreed to pay a substantial $43.25 million to settle a significant class action lawsuit regarding alleged gender discrimination violations under California’s Equal Pay Act. Known globally for its entertainment, theme parks, and media networks, Disney has faced scrutiny for reported systematic inequalities, specifically allegations of paying women employees less than their male counterparts for similar work roles. This Disney gender discrimination class action settlement provides eligible women employees with financial compensation for potential unequal pay practices that occurred from April 1, 2015, through December 28, 2024. If you are affected, understanding your rights and the steps necessary to claim your share is essential. Continue reading to find out if you qualify and how you can benefit from this important settlement.
Table of Contents
- Detailed Background of the Case
- Who’s Eligible for the Settlement?
- How Much Can You Receive?
- Important Deadlines
- How to Update Your Information
- Official Case Information
- Conclusion
Detailed Background of the Disney Gender Discrimination Class Action Settlement
The lawsuit, formally known as Rasmussen, et al. v. The Walt Disney Co., et al., was filed on behalf of women employees alleging that Disney violated California’s Equal Pay Act by systematically compensating women less than their male counterparts for comparable work. Plaintiffs argued that despite holding similar positions, qualifications, and responsibilities, female employees experienced significant pay disparities, reflecting broader issues of gender inequality within the company.
Disney, an iconic entertainment leader with a global presence, operates various subsidiaries including ABC, Disneyland Resort, Disney Television Animation, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Marvel Studios, and more. Despite the company’s progressive public image, these allegations pointed towards a culture that plaintiffs claimed perpetuated gender-based pay gaps.
While Disney has consistently denied any wrongdoing or systematic pay discrimination, the company agreed to settle the class action for $43.25 million to avoid further litigation costs and public scrutiny. This settlement underscores the ongoing societal push towards pay equity and the accountability of major corporations in maintaining fair workplace standards.
Who’s Eligible for the Settlement?
Eligible participants in the Disney gender discrimination class action settlement include women who held salaried, full-time, non-union roles within specific job levels (B1-B4, T1-T4, TL, P1-P6, P2L-P5L, M1-M3, A1-5, E0, E1, or E1X) below the vice president level at the following Disney entities in California:
- The Walt Disney Co.
- ABC
- Disneyland Resort
- Disney Television Animation
- Walt Disney Animation Studios
- Disney Channel
- Disney Junior
- Disney XD
- Disney Music Publishing
- Disney Publishing Worldwide
- Disney Theatrical Productions
- Lucasfilm
- Marvel Studios
- Searchlight Pictures
- 20th Century Studios
This settlement excludes employees working for Hulu, ESPN, Pixar, 21st Century Fox, FX, National Geographic, Bamtech, ILM, HR compensation roles, in-house employment counsel, paralegals, and legal assistants directly involved with the case.
How Much Can You Receive?
Class members in the settlement will automatically receive at least $200 each. The exact settlement amount may be higher and depends on the total number of class members participating. There is no claim form needed to receive the compensation; eligible individuals will automatically receive payment unless they choose to opt-out.
Important Deadlines
- Deadline for Exclusion or Objection: August 16, 2025
- Final Approval Hearing: September 15, 2025
How to Update Your Information
If your address or personal details have changed, you can update your information directly on the official settlement website: RasmussenvTWDCSettlement.com.
Ensuring your details are current will help guarantee your payment reaches you promptly and securely.
Official Case Information
- Case Name: Rasmussen, et al. v. The Walt Disney Co., et al.
- Case Number: 19STCV10974
- Court: California Superior Court, Los Angeles County
- Settlement Administrator:
- Rasmussen v. The Walt Disney Co.
- c/o CPT Group Inc.
- 50 Corporate Park, Irvine, CA 92606
- Email: RasmussenvTWDC@cptgroup.com
- Phone: 888-801-2208
Conclusion
The Disney gender discrimination class action settlement marks a crucial step forward in addressing gender pay disparities in the workplace. If you were a female employee at Disney in California between April 1, 2015, and December 28, 2024, this settlement represents an opportunity to receive financial compensation and promote greater equity within the corporate structure. Stay proactive—verify your eligibility, ensure your contact details are up-to-date, and monitor important deadlines to secure your rightful compensation.
For assistance with other settlements and further details, visit our class action blog regularly. If you believe you qualify, claim your share of the settlement with Sparrow today.
