In response to growing calls for LGBTQ+ representation, Disney’s upcoming film ‘Lightyear’ will feature a same-sex kiss that was initially cut from the film. This decision follows public outcry from Disney/Pixar employees advocating for more inclusive content. According to reports from Variety, the romantic scene involves two female characters, one of whom is a prominent character voiced by the actress Ella Thompson (known for her work in various acclaimed series). Set to debut in June, coinciding with Pride Month, ‘Lightyear’ serves as the origin story for the iconic character Buzz Lightyear, featured in the beloved ‘Toy Story’ franchise.
Disney has faced scrutiny for its historical lack of LGBTQ+ representation and its responses to controversial legislation, such as Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill. After significant backlash regarding the company’s financial contributions to lawmakers supporting this bill, Disney CEO Mark Wilkins sent a memo to employees, stating the company’s commitment to promoting a more inclusive world through its content. However, this message sparked frustration among staff, who argued that their creative efforts for queer representation often face obstacles from the company’s conservative leadership.
A collective statement from LGBTQIA+ employees at Pixar noted, “Almost every instance of overtly gay affection is removed at Disney’s request, despite protests from both creative teams and executive leadership at Pixar.” Past Pixar films have included minimal queer representation, with only fleeting references seen in titles like ‘Toy Story 4’ and ‘Finding Dory.’ The short film ‘Out,’ featuring a gay male protagonist, was released on Disney+ but likely reached a much smaller audience compared to Pixar’s major theatrical releases.
As ‘Lightyear’ prepares for its summer release, the inclusion of the kiss between Hawthorne and her girlfriend marks a significant milestone for Disney. It’s a hopeful step forward, suggesting that more inclusive content may be on the horizon. For additional insights into parenting and home insemination, feel free to explore this resource and this article.
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In summary, Disney’s ‘Lightyear’ is set to feature a same-sex kiss between two female characters, a move prompted by employee advocacy for greater LGBTQ+ representation. This moment is significant, particularly in light of the company’s previous challenges with inclusivity in its films.