Disney is determined to "create a more inclusive future"—even if it means calling themselves out.
After The Muppet Show hit the streaming service last week, fans were quick to notice that a new content disclaimer had been added to certain episodes. According to their official statement, it's meant to warn viewers about harmful stereotypes and tone-deaf depictions in some of their content.
The disclaimer reads, "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."
The statement continues, "Disney is committed to creating stories with inspirational and aspirational themes that reflect the rich diversity of the human experience around the globe."
The warning briefly appears at the beginning of 18 different episodes. These installments feature problematic scenes, like puppets wearing stereotypical Native American attire and Johnny Cash performing in front of a Confederate flag.
Some fans have questioned why Disney didn't remove these episodes altogether. But according to the official website, the goal is to encourage meaningful discussions among viewers. The site reads, "As part of our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, we are in the process of reviewing our library and adding advisories to content that includes negative depictions or mistreatment of people or cultures. Rather than removing this content, we see an opportunity to spark conversation and open dialogue on history that affects us all. We also want to acknowledge that some communities have been erased or forgotten altogether, and we’re committed to giving voice to their stories as well."
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