Why Disney+ Cut Scenes From Children’s Series BLUEY
By Movieguide® Contributor
Disney+ recently responded to allegations of censorship after some fans noticed that one episode of the children’s show BLUEY was left off the streaming platform.
The show follows the life and adventures of a dog named Bluey and originally aired in Australia. Disney has been airing it on Disney Junior and features it on Disney+.
Recently, fans noticed that an episode called “Family Meeting” was not available to watch on the streaming service. The episode contained a storyline about breaking wind, and after fans brought their concerns to the attention of Disney, the company responded.
In an email about the censorship, a Disney employee wrote, “‘Family Meeting’ will roll out on U.S .platforms soon. Some of the Bluey content did not meet Disney Junior broadcast S&P in place at the time the series was acquired.”
“Now that it is rolling out on other platforms, it is a great opportunity to reevaluate which is what we plan to do,” the email concluded.
This isn’t the first time BLUEY viewers have noticed missing scenes and episodes from the U.S. version of the children’s show.
Disney has removed many scenes that contain bathroom humor, as well as a reference to getting hit “in a sensitive spot” in one episode.
The company’s vigilance about what they’re showing to their young viewers makes sense.
Movieguide® previously reported on a funny way BLUEY influenced some kids who love the show:
Some American children have picked up Australian accents and phrases from the children’s cartoon show BLUEY, highlighting the subtle yet strong effect media has on young brains.
BLUEY, an Emmy-winning Australian children’s show, tells the story of a dog family living in Brisbane, Australia. After watching it, one American child began using the word “dunny” instead of “toilet.”
Another beloved children’s cartoon, PEPPA PIG, has caused many American children to pick up British accents. While saying “Can I borrow the hot sauce?” in a British accent is sweet and endearing, this should be a wake-up call to parents who allow their children to view media without discretion.
These innocent examples pose no real risk to a child, but media can have detrimental and lasting effects on a child’s life. As Movieguide® previously reported, “there is absolutely no doubt that those who are heavy viewers of violence demonstrate increased acceptance of aggressive attitudes and aggressive behavior.”
Teaching children how to think about the media and its influence on them is one of the most essential lessons a parent can communicate.
Even something as harmless as a cartoon can promote messages that can go unnoticed. Dr. Baehr cites an example where a cartoon character is hit by a hammer and continues on his way as if nothing happened. “Many researchers consider this ‘happy violence,’ the worst type of entertainment violence because it’s unrealistic,” he explains. “Such cartoon violence might encourage children to imitate it because it shows no consequences.”
While picking up foreign words and accents doesn’t necessarily pose a risk, parents should still consider the many subtle ways media impacts their child’s development.
Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
