Disney Scales Back Warnings About Stereotypes in Classic Movies as DEI Policies Come Under Fire

Disney is making changes to how it presents content warnings in front of classic animated films like Dumbo (1941) and Peter Pan (1953). The company is rolling back the stronger advisory messages that previously acknowledged harmful racial and cultural stereotypes, opting for a more neutral disclaimer.

According to Axios, Disney will no longer include the advisory that warns audiences about “negative depictions and/or mistreatment of peoples or cultures.” Instead, a new disclaimer will read, “This program is presented as originally created and may contain stereotypes or negative depictions.” The move is reportedly part of a broader shift in Disney’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which are facing increased scrutiny amid political pressure, particularly from the Trump administration.

Disney first introduced content advisories on films like Dumbo, Peter Pan, The Aristocats, and Swiss Family Robinson in 2019, later updating them in 2020 with a stronger message. That warning explicitly stated, “These stereotypes were wrong then and are wrong now,” and directed viewers to a website promoting discussions on inclusivity in storytelling. The new disclaimer, however, more closely resembles Disney’s original 2019 warning, which simply noted that some titles “may contain outdated cultural depictions.”

The decision comes as DEI programs face increasing challenges across corporate America. On the same day Disney’s policy shift was reported, ABC News noted that PBS is shutting down its DEI office following an executive order from former President Donald Trump that rolls back long-standing equal opportunity policies for federal contractors.

Titles like Peter Pan have been criticized for their outdated portrayals, particularly of Indigenous characters who are referred to as “redskins” in the film. Dumbo has also faced backlash for its depiction of the crows, which many consider a racial stereotype. While Disney previously took a firm stance in acknowledging these problematic elements, the company now appears to be softening its messaging.