New Delhi: Netflix is in the news.
‘CoComelon’, the OTT platform’s popular show for babies, has sparked controversy with its new spinoff series, ‘CoComelon Lane.’
LGBTQ characters have been introduced in recent episodes, with one scene showing a boy exploring different costumes — including girlswear tutu and tiara — in a touching moment with his same-sex parents.
In the episode titled ‘Just be me’, the young boy engages in dress-up with his two dads, seeking their views on different costumes. The message is the importance of self-expression, with the parents encouraging him to embrace who he is.
It is this scene which has become the focal point of the controversy, dividing opinion.
The new CoComelon Lane on Netflix has a boy in a dress dance for his 2 gay dads
CoComelon is the most popular show for babies and toddlers ages 2+ pic.twitter.com/wSYyEZEzMJ
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) December 20, 2023
Some have praised the inclusivity while others have expressed strong reservations about the portrayal.
The clip, which was shared by End Wokeness on social media platform X, has attracted over 15 million views in 72 hours, and counting.
Parents expressed their discontent on social media. Some were frustrated over perceived intrusion of a “woke agenda” in children’s programmes and lamented loss of wholesome content.
There were some parents who welcomed the diversity of the show and described critics as “homophobic.”
Many critics argued that the kids’ show has taken a ‘woke’ turn, and gone beyond promoting acceptance of same-sex families and encouraging cross-dressing.
Will Hild, executive director of Consumers’ Research, said he felt “disgusted” and even suggested the show is attempting to “groom” children.
