The “Dancing Security Guard” phenomenon peaked in the 2017 MLB season, particularly during the Houston Astros’ American League Championship Series (ALCS). It all started with Orbit, the Astros mascot, and ended up being one of the season’s most talked-about occurrences.
The 2017 ALCS Viral Moment
Astros fans were used to Orbit breaking into a dance routine to Maroon 5’s “Moves Like Jagger” in the middle of a game. But when Orbit encountered a tough-looking, unyielding security guy dressed in black, the story took an unexpected turn. Expecting a typical mascot-versus-security confrontation, the crowd was taken aback when the guard launched into a vibrant dance routine. His motions were wild, flamboyant, and completely unexpected. One of his full-body worm dances had the audience in a frenzy.
This performance was a huge smash not only in the stadium but also online, receiving over 17 million views on YouTube. The video captured the essence of the 2017 ALCS and won people over all around the world.
How Willis Harris Got It Started
It’s noteworthy because Houston has previously witnessed security guards steal the show with their dance moves. This whole phenomenon is said to have begun in 2014 with the well-known Willis Clinton Harris, a self-employed security guard who was previously well-known for his outrageous and flamboyant dancing performances. Harris first rose to fame with his “Work It Willis” video, in which he stunned viewers with a variety of incredible breakdancing feats at a game, including cartwheels and splits. Harris became well-known after this video went viral and had around 100 million views on YouTube.
Harris’s antics became a regular feature at sporting events, particularly Rays games. His mascot dance-offs, especially the one with the Houston Astros’ Orbit, contributed to the feeling that these performances were both well-rehearsed and spontaneous.
The Effects of the Phenomenon
Whether or not these dance routines were entirely impromptu, as Harris suggested in his interviews, they were undoubtedly executed with the greatest of intentions. Harris has made it known how much he enjoys working in the entertainment industry and how crucial it is to uplift people’s spirits and make people smile at events.
Since then, the Houston phenomenon known as the “Dancing Security Guard” has come to stand for joy and entertainment. These unexpectedly happy times serve as a reminder of the importance of spontaneity and the universal appeal of laughing and dancing. Though the true story behind their planning is still a mystery, the joys these events provide are genuine, and both sports fans and internet users adore the memories they evoke.
