Internet divided as Disney scraps trans storyline from 'Win or Lose' over potential parent concerns

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: It looks like Pixar’s much-anticipated 'Win or Lose'—its first-ever long-form TV series—is getting a rather controversial makeover.

The show, set to start streaming in February 2025 on Disney+, originally planned to feature a transgender character with a storyline that directly addressed their gender identity. But in a shocking move, that storyline has reportedly been axed.

Disney removes trans storyline from 'Win or Lose' over parent concerns

Entertainment Weekly confirmed that while the trans character remains in the series, the episodes addressing their gender identity got a major edit. Several lines of dialogue were reportedly snipped.

The decision wasn’t recent—it was made months ago, according to The Hollywood Reporter. 

A Disney spokesperson gave a carefully worded statement to EW: "When it comes to animated content for a younger audience, we recognize that many parents would prefer to discuss certain subjects with their children on their own terms and timeline."

Chanel Stewart, the 18-year-old transgender actress who voiced the character, didn’t hold back in an interview with Deadline.

"I was very disheartened. From the moment I got the script, I was excited to share my journey to help empower other trans youth. I knew this would be a very important conversation. Trans stories matter, and they deserve to be heard," she shared. 

For those not in the know, 'Win or Lose' follows the Pickles, a co-ed middle school softball team prepping for their championship game. Each of its eight episodes delves into the unique perspective of a different character—be it a player, parent, coach, or even an umpire.

Oh, and let’s not forget 'Saturday Night Live' legend Will Forte, who’s voicing the team’s coach. Behind the scenes, it’s helmed by Carrie Hobson (known for 'Elemental') and Michael Yates (known for 'Soul').

Internet divided over 'Win or Lose' storyline change

Social media exploded with reactions when news broke that the transgender storyline was scrapped.

Many welcomed the move. One wrote, "Disney cutting the woke stuff. The world is healing," and another exclaimed, "Common sense prevails!" 

A person remarked, "First time I agree with them," while someone else said, "It took them a while to figure this one out. It’s alright though. One thing at a time. The world feels like it’s healing."

But some weren't having it. 

"Disney's transphobia will be remembered," one fumed. "Disney will go wherever the money goes. Rn that’s with more conservative audiences. I’m sure the pendulum will swing again in the future," a person pointed out. 

"It’s hilarious seeing all these transphobes acting like this is a sign of a huge tide turn in their favor as if it’s not just how it’s always been," an individual snarked. 

One more wrote, "As a parent, this makes me sad. I want everyone represented in the media and culture. I'm proud to stand with my trans friends but even if I happen to see something I disagree with, I can talk to my kids and raise them how I see fit without demanding censorship." 

Disney previously shelved an episode of 'Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur' featuring a trans athlete

If this feels familiar, it's because Disney has faced heat over its LGBTQ+ representation before.

Just last month, reports revealed that an episode of 'Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur' featuring a transgender girl in school sports was shelved. Voiced by trans and non-binary actor Indya Moore, the character never got her moment in the limelight.

Storyboard artist Derrick Malik Johnson even spilled the tea in a now-deleted post on Bluesky. He linked the decision to Donald Trump’s reelection.

"One of the projects (episode) I worked on is getting shelved because of which party won the recent election. It breaks my heart knowing this impactful and amazing [episode] is now about to be considered a lost media episode," Johnson posted.

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