Disney Faces Criticism: Accused of Turning a Blind Eye to Racism & Cyberbullying Against Its Own Artists

Kapanlagi.com - Have you heard about this issue, KLovers? In recent years, Disney has produced a lot of films and series! Moreover, that giant studio has been promoting diversity and inclusivity, you know, KLovers. This is evident from the fact that many of their films and series incorporate these elements. Hmm, but do the fans feel like it’s a bit too much it seems?

Recently, Disney has been under scrutiny for being perceived as indifferent to issues of racism and online bullying affecting its actors. One of the cases that is currently being discussed comes from the Star Wars series titled THE ACOLYTE. This series features a variety of actors from different backgrounds, including Amandla Stenberg, who plays a non-binary character. Unfortunately, after being announced as part of the cast, they became targets of racist and homophobic attacks from some fans.

Even one of the actors who also stars in THE ACOLYTE did not hesitate to openly criticize Disney, KLovers! Furthermore, news from THE ACOLYTE itself states that the second season of the series will be canceled, which makes this issue even hotter. Wow, let’s take a look at the summary of the story!

1. Criticism from One of THE ACOLYTE's Actors, Jodie Turner-Smith, Towards Disney

instagram.com/officialacolyte

Jodie Turner-Smith, who plays Mother Aniseya in THE ACOLYTE, is very brave to speak out about Disney's stance. She feels that such a large studio should be bolder in protecting actors from vicious racist attacks.

"It's unfair if they just stay silent while our actors are being completely besieged on social media," she said in English during an interview with Glamour UK, as quoted by Entertainment Weekly. With this criticism, Turner-Smith hopes Disney can be more proactive in supporting its pressured stars.

2. Hate Speech Against the Diversity of THE ACOLYTE's Cast

instagram.com/officialacolyte

The diversity of the cast in THE ACOLYTE has also become a point of contention that has divided many fans. Amandla Stenberg, as a Black person playing a non-binary character, has become a direct target of hate attacks.

"They have given everything for this role, but instead, they are attacked," said Turner-Smith. This is evidence that there is still a part of the Star Wars fandom that cannot accept inclusive representation in the sci-fi genre they love.

3. Some Toxic Star Wars Fandoms

instagram.com/officialacolyte

Unfortunately, this is not the first time the Star Wars fandom has shown its dark side. Celebrities like John Boyega and Kelly Marie Tran have also experienced the same thing, KLovers. They have been targets of criticism and racism from fans. At that time, there were even issues regarding the rejection of black characters in the Star Wars Universe. John Boyega expressed his dissatisfaction with how Disney handled this issue. As a result, he decided to leave Star Wars.

4. Disney Is Considered to Be Lacking Support

instagram.com/officialacolyte

Although Disney has previously issued statements against racism, many feel they are still lacking in real actions. Turner-Smith argues that Disney should make a strong statement and show support for actors who have been victims of racism.

"This is not the time to be silent," she said in the interview. Given the number of black fans who are significant consumers, Disney should be bolder in supporting its actors.

5. Boycott Issue of THE ACOLYTE Series

instagram.com/officialacolyte

THE ACOLYTE has finally announced the cancellation of production for season 2 after its first season aired, which has disappointed many fans who are very saddened by this. Amandla Stenberg herself said that they are not surprised by this decision, considering the backlash that has been ongoing since the beginning. “We have felt the wave of extreme hatred,” she revealed. Nevertheless, this cancellation shows that issues of racism and hatred still need to be addressed in the entertainment industry.

With all these hotly discussed issues, we hope that Disney and other entertainment industries can be more sensitive and responsive to problems of racism and online bullying, yes KLovers! We all hope that actors, especially those from minority backgrounds, can receive the support they deserve so that they can create without fear. When the entertainment world can create a more inclusive and safe environment, it will be a great victory for everyone, both on the big screen and out there. Hopefully, there will be better changes from Disney in the future, yes KLovers!

(kpl/nau)