Full Breakdown
Allegations of Harassment Surround Longtime New York Rangers Superfan "Dancing Larry"
4/10/2026, 3:15:19 AM
Overview of the Lawsuit
Miranda Tyson, a former member of the New York Rangers' Blue Crew, has filed a workplace discrimination lawsuit against Madison Square Garden (MSG) and the Rangers organization, alleging that Larry Goodman, known as "Dancing Larry," engaged in pervasive and severe harassment during his in-game performances. The lawsuit, filed in New York County Supreme Court, claims that Goodman subjected Tyson and other non-male crew members to unwanted physical contact, including touching their heads, necks, arms, and backs, and attempting to lace fingers during high-fives.
Background and Context
Goodman has been a fixture at Madison Square Garden since 1996, known for his energetic dance routines to "Strike It Up" by Black Box during third-period stoppages. Despite his popularity with fans, Tyson's complaint describes his behavior as an "open secret" among Blue Crew staff, who felt unable to confront him due to his status within the organization. Tyson alleges that she raised concerns about Goodman’s conduct with supervisors and human resources multiple times, starting in March 2024, but claims no meaningful action was taken.
Key Allegations
The lawsuit details a pattern of unwanted interactions, including instances where Goodman allegedly spat into people's mouths. Tyson asserts that her complaints led to retaliation, as she was removed from Dancing Larry segments and ultimately not rehired for the following season. Tyson's position was eliminated in August 2025, despite previously receiving positive feedback on her performance.
Official Statements & Responses
An MSG spokesperson stated, “We don’t comment on employee or legal matters,” reflecting the organization's stance on the lawsuit. A source familiar with the situation claimed that the allegations against Goodman are unfounded and that MSG continues to support him. Following the filing of the lawsuit, Goodman was honored on the jumbotron during a Rangers game, which drew criticism for overshadowing the serious allegations against him.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that the Rangers' decision to honor Goodman amid the lawsuit was a misstep, potentially exacerbating the controversy. Jonathan Ouimet, a journalist covering the Rangers, described the tribute as “another avoidable own goal,” suggesting that the organization failed to manage the narrative surrounding the allegations effectively.
What's Next
Tyson is seeking compensatory damages for lost wages, benefits, and future earning capacity, alongside punitive damages for what she describes as MSG and the Rangers’ “malicious, willful, wanton and reckless conduct.” The case is currently in the early stages, with no court date announced yet. As the legal process unfolds, further details regarding internal communications and the organization's handling of the allegations are expected to emerge.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Every time we return from ‘Dancing Larry,’ more than one person assigned to it laments an unwanted interaction,” — Miranda Tyson, Plaintiff
- “I am saying that MSG has a responsibility to step in and address this textbook sexual harassment from one of its most recognizable personalities.” — Miranda Tyson, Plaintiff
- “open image in gallery Larry Goodman, better known as New York Rangers superfan Dancing Larry, was honored during Wednesday's game for 30 years with Madison Square Garden ( Getty ) Jonathan Ouimet, a journalist who covers Rangers for NY Hockey Insider, wrote of the decision to feature Goodman on the Jumbotron following the claims over his behavior: “For the Rangers, this lands like another avoidable own goal.” — Jonathan Ouimet, Journalist
This case highlights the ongoing tension between workplace safety and the preservation of beloved sports traditions, raising questions about how organizations manage allegations of misconduct involving popular figures.
