Space Jam 2 has removed Looney Tunes character Pepé Le Pew from the “Space Jam 2.”
Lola Bunny got a drawing change to stop the sexualization of women, and now the lover boy, woman-crazed and often seen as offensive skunk, is also getting the boot. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the decision to remove Pepé from the sequel was made more than a year ago.
The news came out Sunday following a New York Times article, which called out the character for its problematic history. In the New York Times article, written by columnist Charles M. Blow, Blow said Pepé “normalized rape culture.” While we know that the character won’t be featured in the film, there are no details on whether or not Warner Bros. will wipe Pepé completely from its brand.
People online responded to the change, highlighting how Pepé’s character has long been controversial. “Literally no one would complain if the character just never appeared in the movie. Nobody is desperate to see Pepe Le Pew in fucking Space Jam 2. But because the character was removed, now everyone is calling Cancel Culture,” said a Twitter user.
According to Deadline, Pepé was slated to appear in one scene in the film in which he would be reportedly recovering from his problematic behavior and learning about consent in a rehabilitation program. However, the film’s new director is Malcolm D. Lee, and since Lee came on board, the decision was made to remove it.
