Disney has quietly updated its content warnings on classic films, moving away from explicit condemnations of perceived stereotypes. This shift comes as numerous companies, including Amazon, Starbucks, and Walmart, scale back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
Previously, Disney+ prefaced older movies like "Peter Pan" with messages criticizing outdated portrayals of certain cultures. For example, viewers of "The Aristocrats" (1970) were informed that the film "includes negative depictions and/or mistreatment of people or cultures." The warning explicitly stated that "These stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now." According to an Axios report, the warning has been streamlined to: "This program is presented as originally created and may contain stereotypes or negative depictions."
Fox News contributor Joe Concha criticized Disney's initial approach, arguing that such warnings are unnecessary for films produced in different eras with different social contexts. He linked Disney's declining stock value since President Biden took office to what he perceives as the company's "woke" remakes, suggesting that audiences are rejecting these updated versions. Concha specifically cited a recent animated film featuring a lesbian dog couple as an example of forced inclusivity that viewers find tiresome.
Fox News national correspondent Griff Jenkins broadened the discussion beyond Disney, noting that other companies like Costco are also facing scrutiny for their DEI policies. He urged these corporations to "read the room" and adapt to the changing social climate.
