Criminal

Action Park

20 snips
May 23, 2025
Chris Gethard, a comedian from New Jersey, shares his wild experiences at Action Park, the infamous amusement park known for its dangerous attractions. Seth Porges, a documentary filmmaker, provides insights into Gene Mulvihill's audacious rise and the park's chaotic legacy. They delve into the risky innovations of ride designs that attracted thrill-seekers, and the alarming safety practices that resulted in numerous incidents. The discussion contrasts nostalgic memories of adventure with modern concerns about safety in amusement parks.
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ANECDOTE

Childhood Injury Stories Spread

  • Chris Gethard shares his childhood experience with local rumors about injuries at Action Park.
  • Many altar boys returned from there with burns and broken bones, spreading the park's dangerous reputation.
INSIGHT

Gene Mulvihill's Risk-Driven Vision

  • Gene Mulvihill, Action Park's creator, had no amusement park experience but was driven by risk and rule-breaking.
  • He designed and built wildly unsafe rides, ignoring engineering norms and safety testing.
ANECDOTE

Tarzan Swing Fall and Mockery

  • Chris Gethard recounts his harrowing experience on the Tarzan Swing.
  • After losing his grip and falling into freezing water, he was mocked harshly by onlookers including adults and parents.
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