Disney+ Revamps Content Warnings for Classic Films, Signaling DEI Strategy Shift
Disney+ is reportedly implementing alterations to the content warnings displayed before classic films such as "Peter Pan" and "Dumbo" as part of a larger overhaul of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategy.
Current Content Warnings
Currently, Disney+ places content warnings at the commencement of older films that may contain racially insensitive content. The existing advisory reads, "This film includes negative depictions and/or mistreatment of peoples or cultures."
Updated Content Warning
The revised content warning now states, "This program is presented as originally created and may contain stereotypes or negative depictions."
History of Content Warnings
In October 2020, Disney+ enhanced its original 2019 content warning with the intention of fostering greater inclusivity. The 2020 version declared:
"This program includes negative depictions and/or mistreatment of people or cultures. These stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now. Rather than remove this content, we want to acknowledge its harmful impact, learn from it and spark conversation to create a more inclusive future together. Disney is committed to creating stories with inspirational and aspirational themes that reflect the rich diversity of the human experience around the globe."
However, Disney+ reverted to the shorter 2019 version after scrapping this iteration.
Expert Analysis
Stephen Kent, media director for the Consumer Choice Center, interprets this change of direction as a sign of Disney’s weariness with setbacks.
"Disney may have finally gotten tired of losing. This is a remarkable course adjustment and evidence of how politics can reshape culture overnight. CEO Bob Iger has always been far more shrewd and practical than Disney’s critics acknowledge. It is unlikely he had any reservations about dumping the divisive DEI mindset ushered in by his predecessor, Bob Chapek, who took over in 2020 from Iger and spoiled the company’s brand even worse before being ousted in 2022,"
Kent insists that this DEI policy shift extends beyond content warning updates, citing the addition of Luke Skywalker to Disney’s Star Wars theme park.
"If you want to see how Disney is changing gears, consider that they are only now adding the beloved Luke Skywalker character to their Star Wars park after five years being open. Most consumers didn’t want to meet Disney’s new and commercially unpopular Star Wars characters like Rey. Fans always wanted their photo with Luke Skywalker, and now they can have it. Make no mistake, these things are connected."
Disney’s Response
Despite reaching out to Disney, Fox News Digital has not received a comment regarding these changes.
Implications
This pivot in Disney+’s content warning strategy indicates a potential shift in the company’s DEI approach. The emphasis on presenting content in its original form, while acknowledging possible stereotypes or negative depictions, suggests a move away from the previous focus on adding context or disclaimers to condemn such elements.
It remains to be seen how these changes will impact Disney’s overall DEI initiatives and the broader conversation surrounding the representation and treatment of marginalized groups in media and entertainment.
