Play the music, turn on the lights … and put the legal notice?
Select episodes from The Muppet Show – which started airing on Disney + on Friday, February 19 – received a disclaimer citing “negative representations and / or mistreatment of people or cultures”
“These stereotypes were wrong at the time and are wrong now,” says the warning. “Instead of removing this content, we want to recognize its harmful impact, learn from it and start conversations to create a more inclusive future together.”
The warning message continues: “Disney is committed to creating stories with inspiring and ambitious themes that reflect the rich diversity of human experience around the world. To learn more about how stories impacted society, visit: Disney.com/StoriesMatter. “
The 12-second disclaimer was added before a total of 18 episodes over the series’ five seasons. The most obvious offense includes an entrance with country star Johnny Cash performing in front of a Confederate flag, as well as several negative representations of Native Americans and Middle Eastern people in songs and sketches. (This Reddit topic includes a list of specific edits made.) Also notable is the exclusion of two episodes from the show’s fifth and final season, featuring guest stars Brooke Shields and team writer Chris Langham.
You’re suprised The Muppet Show was hit with a disclaimer? Let us know what you think in the Comments!