A dialogue revealing a character’s trans identity has been deleted from the script of the upcoming animated series Win or Lose. A decision that plunges Pixar and Disney into turmoil.
Pixar’s next original animated series, Win or Loseexpected on Disney+ for February 19, is the subject of a major and controversial modification. While one of the episodes was originally supposed to include a few lines of dialogue exploring a character’s gender identity, these were removed. “We recognize that many parents prefer to discuss certain topics with their children on their own terms and schedule“explained a Disney spokesperson in a statement to Hollywood ReporterTuesday December 17. The character remains present in the program, but lines referring to the fact that he is transgender have been removed.
This cut, decided several months before the public announcement, was confirmed by Chanel Stewart, a transgender actress who lends her voice to the character concerned. Near Deadlinethe actress, who landed the role at the age of 14, said:very saddened“by this choice:”As soon as I read the script, I was excited to share my journey to inspire other young trans people. Trans stories matter and deserve to be heard.“
A failed position on inclusion?
This controversy comes in a context where Disney is facing pressure on the LGBTQ+ content of its productions. In 2022, controversies marred the releases of Buzz Lightyear et Avalonia: the strange journeytwo films that included LGBTQ+ characters, but which had mixed performances at the box office. Similar controversy also hit the series Moon Girl and Devil the Dinosaurwith accusations that an episode featuring a trans character was removed. Disney has denied these claims.
If Disney continues to integrate LGBTQ+ themes into productions intended for an adult audience, such as Poseinclusion in youth content remains a sensitive area, both in the United States and internationally.
The series Win or Lose will follow the eight members of a young co-ed softball team preparing for a championship.
