The Dancing Security Guard Phenomenon in Houston, Texas
In the middle of the 2017 season, Houston Astros mascot Orbit started dancing to “Moves Like Jagger,” setting the stage for an unexpected spectacle. Just as Orbit approached a stern security guard, who seemed as unyielding as the Queen’s Guard, the man in uniform suddenly broke into an explosive, jaw-dropping dance.
The security guard’s energetic and outrageous moves, reminiscent of a rock star, stunned the Jumbotron crowd, who erupted in cheers. His grand finale, a full-body worm dance, turned the impromptu performance into one of the most viral moments of the 2017 ALCS, garnering over 17 million views on YouTube.
The Legacy of Houston’s Dancing Security Guards
This wasn’t the first time a dancing security guard stole the spotlight at a Houston sports event. The phenomenon began in 2014 with the now-legendary Willis Clinton Harris, a freelance security guard whose wild dance routines—complete with splits and cartwheels—became internet sensations. His iconic “Work It Willis” video, which featured his breakdancing skills, has since racked up 99 million views on YouTube.
Willis Harris made a habit of going viral, notably during a Tampa Bay Rays game. The trend continued in 2017 when another security guard spontaneously joined Orbit in a dance-off, sparking rumors that these viral moments were staged. Harris only added to the mystery in a Fox interview, where he called Orbit a “good friend” and hinted that while their interactions weren’t fully prearranged, they knew they would be in close proximity.
The Fun Behind the Dance
Whether spontaneous or slightly planned, Harris revealed his genuine motivation in his interview with Fox: “I have always loved the entertainment industry. Number one is job stability; number two is entertaining the crowd. We should seize any opportunity to make others laugh and lighten up.”
Whatever the truth behind these dancing security guards in Houston, their viral videos have brought joy to millions and continue to spread smiles.
