So grateful for the opportunity to chat with Big Al! It really meant a lot to have AL IN STUDIO- so I want to extend my gratitude to him for coming on the show to chat in person! :) In this episode, we dive into the incredible experiences of Big Al, Allan Scanlan, the amusement park and railroad manager at Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley Ranch.
Over the course of his 15-year tenure, Big Al shares fascinating stories about managing the rides and daily operations at Neverland, his personal interactions with Michael Jackson, and the numerous humanitarian events hosted there. We also explore Michael's favorite amusement park rides, unique friendships, and touching memories that showcase his kindness and humanitarianism. TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Meet Big Al, Neverland’s Ride Manager01:00 – Michael Jackson Describes Neverland in His Own Words02:00 – How Big Al Got the Job at Neverland03:30 – Daily Life Managing the Rides & Trains04:50 – The First Time Big Al Met Michael Jackson06:20 – Water Balloon Fights with MJ07:00 – The Katherine Steam Train & Tribute to Katherine Jackson09:30 – Neverland Was Always Evolving12:00 – How Big Was Neverland Valley Ranch?17:00 – The Truth About MJ’s Charity Work22:30 – Rare Look Inside the Ranch: Rooms, Piano & Decor27:00 – MJ’s Favorite Rides at Neverland36:00 – When MJ Wanted a Roller Coaster at Home39:30 – Where Are Neverland’s Rides Now?40:00 – Filming the Michael Biopic at Neverland Valley Ranch44:00 – What Neverland Meant to MJ✩ Contact & SocialsInstagram, facebook, twitter @mjfangirlblogMy amazon storefont: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mjfangirlblogPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/MjfangirlPodcast on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music: “Club 30s with MJFANGIRL- a Michael Jackson podcast”Business Inquiries - hello@mjfangirl.com