Disney has been gradually introducing more LGBT characters and other such diverse individuals. This is especially evident with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as many of their most recent films and shows have included such elements. Interestingly, however, it appears that Disney initially removed a same-sex kiss scene from the upcoming Pixar film Lightyear. Now, after protests from Disney employees, it appears that Disney has decided to re-add the same-sex kiss scene to Lightyear.
This information comes from Variety, where they noted that the female character Hawthorne (voiced by Uzo Aduba) has a relationship with another woman. While their relationship was always part of the film, it was the kiss scene that Disney had removed. But they ultimately decided to reinstate it.
As stated:
“While the fact of that relationship was never in question at the studio, a kiss between the characters had been cut from the film. Following the uproar surrounding the Pixar employees’ statement and Disney CEO Bob Chapek’s handling of the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill, however, the kiss was reinstated into the movie last week.”
Furthermore, several anonymous employees alleged that Disney thwarted their attempts to introduce more overt LGBT themes in the past:
“Creatives within the studio have tried for years to incorporate LGBTQ identity into its storytelling in ways big and small, only to have those efforts consistently thwarted.”
As such, this addition of the same-sex kiss scene to Lightyear should be quite a massive change for the studio. It could pave the way for many more LGBT elements to be included in the future, including more obvious incorporations as opposed to mere couples standing ambiguously near one another.
The new movie was directed by Angus MacLane. Chris Evans will voice the character Buzz Lightyear, the toy version of which was voiced by Tim Allen in the original Toy Story films.
The upcoming film Lightyear is scheduled for a release date on June 17, 2022.