Disney is facing backlash over its decision to cut a transgender storyline from the upcoming Pixar animated series Win or Lose, which is set to premiere in 2025.
This series which was written, directed, and executive produced by Carrie Hobson and Michael Yates is a big deal. It marks Pixar’s first long-form animated show, following a co-ed middle school softball team as they gear up for their championship game.
Originally, the show was meant to highlight different characters’ perspectives and experiences, including that of a transgender character. But now, it seems Disney has opted to remove references to this character’s gender identity from several lines of dialogue in multiple episodes. A source told Variety that while there wasn’t a full episode dedicated to the storyline, the cuts are still significant.
A spokesperson for Disney explained the decision in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter and said, “When it comes to animated content for a younger audience, we recognise that many parents would prefer to discuss certain subjects with their children on their own terms and timeline.”
This has sparked quite a bit of conversation about representation and how sensitive topics are handled in kids’ shows.
One user on X pointed out, “Disney will go wherever the money goes. Right now that’s with more conservative audiences.”
Another parent expressed disappointment and said, “I want everyone represented in the media and culture. I’m proud to stand with my trans friend,s but even if I happen to see something I disagree with, I can talk to my kids and raise them how I see fit without demanding censorship.”
This isn’t the first time Disney has faced backlash over LGBTQIA+ storylines. In 2022, Disney found itself embroiled in controversy over Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, which restricts discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in schools. After facing backlash for initially remaining silent, Disney CEO Bob Chapek spoke out against the bill, leading to a public feud with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
Just recently, there was buzz around Disney Channel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, when some of the show’s creators claimed an episode featuring a recurring transgender character was pulled. Derrick Malik Johnson said in a now deleted BlueSky post that the episode was “shelved because of which party that won the recent election” — likely referring to Donald Trump winning the presidency this year.
Disney responded by claiming this decision was made over a year ago and wasn’t specifically about the character.
As we get closer to the release of Win or Lose it’ll be interesting to see how audiences react to this latest move from Disney. The show is slated to drop on February 19 on Disney+.
Lead image: Disney/X
