Workers claim unsafe conditions at a restaurant owned by the South Park creators. They have Brooke Shields on their side

Actress Brooke Shields Backs Workers’ Claims of Unsafe Conditions at Denver’s Casa Bonita, Owned by South Park Creators

Workers claim unsafe conditions at a restaurant – In a recent development that has sparked public attention, actress Brooke Shields has become a vocal supporter of workers at Casa Bonita, a Denver-based Mexican restaurant owned by the creators of the iconic comedy series *South Park*, Trey Parker and Matt Stone. The controversy began in March 2024 when Shields visited the establishment under an assumed identity to deliver a message to its management about improving working conditions for its performers. Her decision to remain anonymous was not to evade media scrutiny but to ensure the restaurant’s staff and owners would not recognize her presence during the visit.

“The place is so vast that it took some time for management to realize we were there,” Shields shared with CNN. She added, “And then word spread because I didn’t have a hat or a mustache, which are typical for someone visiting the site.” The visit was part of a broader effort to advocate for better wages and safety protocols, as the restaurant’s performers, who provide entertainment from morning to night, face significant challenges. These include risks like hypothermia from diving into the lagoon, chlorine toxicity, and even sexual harassment by patrons, according to reports from unionized staff.

The Unique Appeal of Casa Bonita

Casa Bonita, a staple of Denver for over five decades, is more than just a dining spot—it’s a destination known for its vibrant, immersive atmosphere. The restaurant features a colorful, jungle-themed interior and a palatial pink exterior that draws visitors from across the region. Up to 3,500 guests are served Mexican cuisine daily, but the real draw is the live entertainment, which includes cliff divers, puppeteers, and magicians. These performers interact with diners at regular intervals, creating an experience that is both whimsical and dynamic.

Shields’ visit occurred after the restaurant’s performers, numbering around 80, successfully unionized under Actor’s Equity in April 2024. This marked a significant turning point, as the group began negotiating with management for better protections and fairer compensation. The union’s demands include increased wages to match those of servers, who earn approximately $10 more per hour, and safety measures such as emergency action plans, security for performers, and policies to address incidents of harassment.

Behind the Scenes of a Labor Movement

The unionization effort has been ongoing since April of the previous year, with Shields at the forefront. She described the process as a “slightly ambush” situation, where attempts to negotiate respectfully were met with minimal response. “You try doing things respectfully, and then you’re not met with equal respect… so you have to resort to other tactics,” Shields said in a

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to CNN. This sentiment reflects the frustration of performers who feel their concerns have been overlooked for too long.

According to Shields, the union has already made concessions, such as agreeing to paid time off, holiday pay, and additional wages. However, management has only offered a modest raise of less than a dollar per hour, leaving many performers feeling undervalued. “It’s just so disheartening because they’re putting their lives at risk, and they’re not being looked after,” she said, highlighting the emotional toll of the struggle.

Shields’ involvement has also drawn attention to the lack of formal safety protocols at the restaurant. There is currently no active shooter policy, no clear emergency response plan, and no dedicated security for performers who engage with customers. These gaps have raised concerns about the well-being of staff, particularly those involved in high-energy activities like cliff diving or tableside performances.

From Past to Present: A Legacy of Innovation

Casa Bonita’s journey to becoming a Denver icon is closely tied to the vision of Trey Parker and Matt Stone, who not only created *South Park* but also played a key role in reviving the restaurant from bankruptcy in 2023. The duo, who grew up in the Denver area, have frequently visited the establishment since childhood. In a 2003 *South Park* episode, the restaurant was featured as a central location, and its name even inspired the creators to name their offices “Casa Bonita.”

Stone and Parker’s investment in the restaurant has helped modernize its operations, but their absence from recent union discussions has left some workers feeling disconnected from the leadership. “They’ve been frequent visitors lately but haven’t attended any of the 14 bargaining sessions with Actor’s Equity,” Shields noted, emphasizing the lack of direct engagement from the owners. This absence has fueled criticism, with Shields accusing the management of “radio silence” on the issue.

A Champion for Change

Among the performers, Bethel Lindsley, a former gymnast and circus artist, has emerged as a key figure in the union’s push for reform. Lindsley, who now oversees the dive team, was recruited to build a more professional squad of divers after the restaurant’s reopening in 2023. Her experience in high-profile water shows on cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and The Han Show in China has given her insight into the risks faced by performers in such environments.

Lindsley, a native Denverite, praised the restaurant’s unique charm but also stressed the need for better safety measures. “It’s amazing what Casa Bonita offers, but the staff deserve more than just a friendly environment—they need real protections,” she said. The union’s goals include not only financial compensation but also a safer workplace for all performers, regardless of their role in the entertainment lineup.

While management has remained largely silent, citing their policy of not commenting on ongoing labor negotiations, the situation has continued to escalate. The performers’ union has been working tirelessly to address these issues, and Shields’ support has amplified their efforts. As the negotiations continue, the outcome may determine whether Casa Bonita remains a beloved destination or becomes a symbol of labor rights activism in the Denver area.

The restaurant’s revival five years ago by Parker and Stone underscores the importance of their role in its operations. However, the current labor dispute highlights a growing divide between the owners and their employees, who feel their contributions are underappreciated. With the union’s demands becoming more urgent, the question remains: will the creators of *South Park* finally prioritize the well-being of the very people who make their restaurant a success?