Once again, the inclusion of Disney is embroiled in controversy. First it happened with Halle Bailey as the new Ariel in The little Mermaidthen with Cynthia Erivo as the Blue Fairy in the live action of pinocchio. Now it is Yara Shahidi’s turn (Tinkerbell in Peter Pan and Wendy) to deal with the haters and his racist criticism.
Since Shahidi was announced as Tinker Bell, many social media users have severely criticized the choice. They resorted to the same resources as always, ensuring that a classic character was being destroyed, and that it was not necessary to change the character’s skin color. Once Disney released the first trailer, and it was possible to see what Tinkerbell will look like, the criticism was only stronger.
In an interview for The Hollywood Reporter, Shahidi was questioned about inclusion in Disney, referring to her Tinker Bell and Halle Bailey’s Ariel. The actress assured that this is an important moment in the industry, and that she prefers to focus on the message of her character.
“What has been beautiful is seeing the response of our two characters. And see how many people feel included in this fairy tale while maintaining the magic that we love in the first place.”
In recent years, numerous Disney projects have faced hate from internet trolls. And it is that not only the company’s live action adaptations have been harshly criticized. His animated projects (Lightyear, A strange world), and even the MCU movies (Eternals, Thor: Love and Thunder) have shared similar fates. Fortunately, those actors who are singled out for racist comments have found a common thread: they pay more attention to positive comments.
“I think too often people think that diversity and inclusion threaten or jeopardize the quality of the story, instead of seeing how beautifully they can intertwine to create something that impacts more people, allows more people to participate. in the stories we love,” he added.
Although Peter Pan and Wendy can launch her to stardom, Yara Shahidi is no stranger to the industry. The 23-year-old actress has participated in projects such as Grown-ish and Black-ish. But she also has experience in activism, the defense of social justice, and other issues that mark the current agenda, such as racism and gender equality.
Do you think that Yara Shahidi’s performance as Tinkerbell can win over fans of the original story? Peter Pan and Wendy Coming to Disney Plus next April 18th.
Juan Jose Cruz I am one of those who always defended Robert Pattinson as Batman and can see the same movie in the theater up to 7 times. My guilty pleasure? Low budget horror movie.
