A TikTok user has sparked controversy online after buying a disabled-accessible ticket to an Ariana Grande concert despite not having a disability. The incident has divided fans and highlighted ongoing issues with accessible seating at major events.
TikTok creator Alex (@rrt.alex) shared his ticket-buying experience for Ariana Grande’s Eternal Sunshine tour in a video that quickly gained widespread attention. After waiting in what he described as an “endless digital queue,” Alex finally reached the venue map to find only a single seat remained available.
When Alex zoomed in on the last remaining ticket, he discovered it was marked with the International Symbol of Access, the blue wheelchair icon that designates seating for people with limited mobility. Instead of backing away, Alex decided to purchase it, joking “You know what, a little Amazon purchase” before asking “Wait, can I get this?” He then confirmed that the website allowed him to complete the purchase. In the video, he defended his actions by saying “Sorry grandma, a boys gotta do what a boys gotta do.”
Mixed reactions from users with disabilities
The stunt drew sharp criticism from users with disabilities who pointed out the harm such actions cause to those who genuinely need accessible seating. “As a permanent wheelchair user, YOU’RE TELLING ME I COULD’VE GOTTEN A FRONT ROW SEAT?!” wrote one commenter. Another user pushed back harder, saying “Hey y’all legit reminder please don’t do this?! Sincerely, a disabled woman who has missed out on far too many opportunities due to things like this.”
Some viewers found humor in the situation, with one person joking “Me when I see an open parking spot but it’s for electric vehicles only.” Another suggested Alex should “Just rent a wheelchair for the day.” However, these responses were met with criticism from others who saw the issue as more serious than concert fashion controversies.
Several commenters warned Alex that his plan likely wouldn’t work, with one saying “Good luck – they won’t let an able-bodied person in with that ticket!” Another warned he could be “asked to leave, possibly with no refund.” One user noted moral concerns, commenting, “I saw that ticket too, but I didn’t buy it because I have morals.”According to Ticketmaster’s policy, accessible tickets are reserved strictly for fans with disabilities and their companions. The company states that “fans who abuse this policy may have their orders canceled,” meaning Alex might not actually get to attend the concert. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires venues to provide accessible seating under the same terms as regular tickets, but specifically prohibits their sale to people who don’t need the accessibility features. Alex’s case represents a broader issue with ticket availability for major concerts, where fans resort to questionable methods to secure seats to popular shows.
Published: Sep 12, 2025 07:32 am