In 2016, Disney released the trailer for Finding Dory and fans spotted a supposedly lesbian couple in one of the scenes. While this may seem particularly progressive in a Disney-Pixar animation, it isn’t the first time online speculation has created a sense of “queer hype” around a new Pixar film. Susman responded by saying that no scenes would be cut, adding: “It’s great we are a part of something that’s making steps forward in the social inclusion capacity, but it’s frustrating there are still places that aren’t where they should be.” Disney’s complicated LGBTQ+ history In response, several countries – including the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Egypt and Indonesia – recently announced they would be banning Lightyear from cinemas due to its “violation of their country’s media content standard” (in short, the inclusion of LGBTQ+ themes). The film’s producer, Galyn Susman, stated that the female character Hawthorne, voiced by Uzo Aduba, is in a “meaningful” relationship with another woman and a kiss occurs between them.
In the lead-up to its release, online speculation soared after it was confirmed that Lightyear would include the company’s first same-sex kiss. It’s the origin story of one of their most beloved characters – Toy Story’s Buzz Lightyear.
Disney-Pixar’s latest animated escapade is about to hit our cinema screens.
