Disney Pixar’s film Onward immerses viewers in a fantastical realm inhabited by mythical beings, including elves and centaurs. However, the character sparking significant conversation isn’t one of the protagonists; it’s a minor character named Officer Tessa, a cyclops voiced by the talented Morgan Green. Tessa holds a special place in the hearts of many as the first openly queer female character in a Disney animated film, and her portrayal by a proud black lesbian adds to her importance. As a black queer mother, this representation strikes a personal chord with me.
When I first watched Onward, I was completely absorbed in its narrative until I heard Tessa mention “my girlfriend.” I was taken aback. Did she really just say “girlfriend”? It was a moment of unexpected solidarity. Tessa’s identity as an openly queer woman is significant, but Morgan Green’s embodiment of that character amplifies its impact. Green has been a prominent figure in advocating for black queer visibility, making her role even more meaningful. It’s refreshing to see Disney not only casting actors of color but also ensuring that a lesbian actress voices a lesbian character, a thoughtful decision that counters the trend of casting straight voice actors.
Disney has long positioned itself as a leader in family-friendly entertainment, but historically, their narratives have primarily centered around white, heterosexual families. As a single parent, I yearn for a Disney film that reflects diverse family structures. The challenges faced by openly queer parents are often overlooked in children’s media, even though we are part of our children’s lives and narratives. Representation has been scarce, and Disney’s tendency to stick to heteronormative stories only exacerbates this issue. Yet, Onward makes strides in this area, even if it’s just for a fleeting moment.
In 2019, the conservative group One Million Moms expressed outrage over a scene in Toy Story 4 where a child is picked up by two mothers. Although it was a minor moment, it sparked significant backlash. In contrast, Tessa’s scene in Onward is intentional and unambiguous. By openly discussing her relationship and sharing insights on parenting, she acknowledges the existence of queer families, helping others feel seen, even if it’s just for a couple of minutes.
The inclusion of an openly gay character in Onward is a significant milestone. Disney could have easily opted for vague representations—often referred to as queer coding—where a character’s sexuality is suggested but never explicitly stated. This practice is not new, as seen with characters like Elsa from Frozen, who many fans interpret as queer due to her demeanor and story arc.
However, I do have one reservation about Officer Tessa: her role as a police officer. While it fits the narrative, the association between law enforcement and the history of violence against marginalized communities complicates the representation. As a black woman, I recognize the duality of celebrating progress while acknowledging its shortcomings.
Despite Officer Tessa’s brief appearance, her existence in Onward is impactful. The film touches on themes of family, making the inclusion of a queer perspective essential. I hope this paves the way for Disney Pixar to introduce more queer characters with substantial storylines in the future. For now, as a queer mom, I find joy in this representation.
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Summary
The introduction of Officer Tessa as an openly gay character in Disney Pixar’s Onward marks a significant step forward for representation in children’s media. Voiced by Morgan Green, a black lesbian, Tessa’s brief yet impactful acknowledgment of her girlfriend provides visibility for queer families, challenging Disney’s traditionally narrow portrayals of family. While there are complexities surrounding her role as a police officer, the moment serves as a hopeful sign for future inclusivity in animated storytelling.