In a bizarre turn of events, an alligator named Wally, who has gained fame on TikTok, was denied access to Wednesday night's Philadelphia Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park. The reptile, supposedly an emotional support animal, was denied entry, causing a stir on social media. Speculation suggests that the alligator in question is WallyGator, owned by Joie Henney from Jonestown, Pennsylvania.

A Phillies fan shared a photo on Instagram showing the alligator wearing a leash with the name "WALLY." This further fueled rumors that WallyGator was the famous reptile denied entry. With over 100,000 followers on TikTok and 25,500 on Instagram, WallyGator has become a sensation on social media platforms.

The incident caught the attention of Howard Eskin, who expressed disbelief on X (formerly known as Twitter), stating, "Are you kidding me. A #Phillies fan tried to come into the game tonight with what they said was a 'service animal.' This is something I've never seen."

WallyGator's TikTok bio claims that he is a "licensed emotional support animal," and his owners are reportedly involved in reptile rescue. The TikTok account showcases WallyGator going on leashed walks, swimming with humans, and even receiving hugs and kisses from people. The young alligator has been providing emotional support to Henney, who battled cancer. WallyGator was even a contender for America's Favorite Pet last year.

Henney disclosed that he received approval from his doctor to use WallyGator as an emotional support animal, as he preferred not to rely on medication for his depression. However, the Phillies organization has not yet commented on the incident.

Despite the alligator's denied entry, the Philadelphia Phillies secured a postseason berth earlier in the week. Phillies fans will undoubtedly remember this unusual incident involving a fan's emotional support alligator, adding another intriguing chapter to the team's history.

It is worth noting that according to the Phillies' official website, only guide dogs, service animals, or service animals in training are allowed inside the ballpark. All other animals, including emotional support animals like Wally, are prohibited.

Henney, the owner of Wally, revealed that the alligator helps him cope with depression. In an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer, he described Wally as a friendly alligator who enjoys giving hugs. Henney explained that he chose Wally as an alternative to medication, stating, "My doctor wanted to put me on depression medicine, and I hate taking medicine. I had Wally, and when I came home and was around him, it was all OK."

Henney has owned Wally since 2015 when the alligator was just 14 months old. Apart from providing emotional support to his owner, Wally also assists Henney in rescuing reptiles and finding them suitable homes in zoos and sanctuaries.

Following the denial of entry, social media went into a frenzy, with users expressing their support for Wally and urging the Phillies to reconsider their decision. One user wrote, "@Phillies give this guy a pass, this is the most Philly thing I've ever seen," while another pleaded, "Come on Phillies."

Although Wally's presence was denied at the Phillies game, the team managed to clinch a playoff spot with a walk-off win against the Pittsburgh Pirates.