Okay animation fans you might have heard about Pixar's new Disney+ series 'Win or Lose'. It's about a middle school softball team sounds cute right? Well things have gotten a bit messy because of a last-minute change. Turns out a character who was originally planned to be trans had that part of their story cut. And people are not happy about it . Let's dive into the drama.
Pixar's 'Win or Lose' Loses a Trans Storyline: Why the Change and What Fans Are Saying
So 'Win or Lose' is Pixar's first ever original series pretty cool right? It follows a co-ed middle school softball team called the Pickles as they get ready for their championship game. Sounds like a feel-good sports story. One of the characters is named Kai and was supposed to be a trans girl voiced by a trans actress Chanel Stewart.
Chanel even said she was excited to share her journey and empower other trans youth with this role. But then Disney Pixar confirmed they cut the trans storyline. Yep they just dropped it. Their reason? They told The Hollywood Reporter that "many parents would prefer to discuss certain subjects with their children on their own terms and timeline." Hmmmm.
This move has caused a lot of upset especially since Kai is still in the show and being used in promos. People feel like Disney chickened out and erased an important story for... well not a great reason in many folks' eyes.
'Hidden Replies' and Fan Fury: Social Media Blowback for Pixar's 'Win or Lose' Decision
After Pixar posted about 'Win or Lose' on social media things got heated. X users (you know Twitter) flooded the comments especially on a post featuring Kai. They were posting trans flags memes and messages of support for trans people. And some folks are saying Pixar is trying to hide the negative reactions.
Users noticed that a bunch of replies to Pixar's post are marked as "hidden replies". If you click on that you can see tons of comments with trans flags and messages calling out Disney for removing Kai's trans identity. People are accusing Pixar of censorship and being "cowards." One hidden comment even joked "You wouldn’t hide a trans flag would you Disney?" Ouch.
Even though some comments are hidden there are still plenty of visible pro-trans replies. Some users are reposting what seems to be a deleted scene that would have shown Kai's trans storyline to make sure it's still seen.
It’s a reminder that people are passionate about representation and they are not afraid to voice their disappointment when they feel like it is being taken away especially when it comes to LGBTQ+ stories.
'Win or Lose': More Than Just Controversy? What the Show is Actually About
Putting the controversy aside what is 'Win or Lose' actually like as a show? Well it is Pixar's first original series and it's streaming on Disney+. Season 1 just wrapped up with the final episodes focusing on Kai and Coach Dan.
The show tells the story of the championship softball game from the perspectives of eight different characters. They are trying to show what it's like to be in each character's shoes - the kids the parents even the umpire. It is supposed to be funny and emotional with Pixar's signature animation style.
One review called it a "must-watch Pixar game-changer" praising how it explores emotions and mental struggles. It highlights the stress and pressure young athletes face both on and off the field and looks at the challenges for parents and coaches too. The writing is praised for capturing unspoken thoughts and tackling themes like bullying societal expectations and inclusivity.
The review emphasizes that 'Win or Lose' is educational and entertaining offering lessons on resilience teamwork and well-being. It's not just about winning or losing the game it is about the emotional journeys of the characters.
Pixar's Shifting Strategy: No More Long-Form Streaming Content After 'Win or Lose'?
Interestingly around the same time as this controversy Disney announced some changes in their animation plans. Walt Disney Animation Studios confirmed they are moving away from original long-form series for streaming. This news came after Pixar also said they would not prioritize developing long episodic series after 'Win or Lose' and another series called 'Dream Productions'.
Does this mean 'Win or Lose' season 2 is unlikely ? It is not officially cancelled yet but it does not sound promising. It seems Disney is rethinking their streaming content strategy for animation.
'Win or Lose' Controversy: Key Points to Know
- Pixar's 'Win or Lose' Disney+ series removed a planned trans storyline for the character Kai.
- Disney said "many parents would prefer to discuss certain subjects with their children on their own terms and timeline" as the reason.
- Trans actress Chanel Stewart voiced Kai and expressed disappointment at the cut storyline.
- Fans online accused Pixar of censorship and "hiding" pro-trans comments on social media posts about the show.
- Despite the controversy one review praised 'Win or Lose' as a "game-changer" for its emotional depth and storytelling.
- Disney is shifting away from original long-form animation series for streaming which may impact future seasons of 'Win or Lose'.