For parents, grandparents, and guardians who want to safeguard their children’s hearts and minds, understanding how LGBTQ+ themes have entered children’s media is essential.
The Recent Controversy
In October 2025, Netflix faced significant backlash after a viral clip from Dead End: Paranormal Park—featuring a transgender main character—sparked outrage online. Elon Musk and other cultural commentators accused the platform of “pushing a transgender agenda” in children’s content. Viewers quickly pointed out other examples of LGBTQ+ inclusion on Netflix, including CoComelon Lane and Princess Power.
Critics argue that this is neither isolated nor accidental. There seems to be a deliberate attempt to normalize transgender and same-sex themes in children’s programming.
This Is Not About Hate or Fear
Let’s be clear: this discussion isn’t about being “homophobic,” “transphobic,” or part of the “religious right.” It’s about protecting innocence and respecting parents’ rights to decide what moral and social values are taught to their children.
The truth is that a large percentage of Americans—both Christian and non-Christian—do not want LGBTQ+ messaging shown to children. Most simply want family programming that reflects traditional values and avoids sexual or identity-based topics altogether.
Understanding the Timeline of LGBTQ+ Content in Kids’ Media
Because children’s shows now span decades and multiple reboots, it can be confusing to determine what’s safe for children. The following general timeline can help parents evaluate risk levels based on the production era.
Before ~2014
- LGBTQ+ inclusion in children’s media was very uncommon and usually avoided by major networks.
- Very low risk: Nearly all shows made before 2014 are free of LGBTQ+ themes.
2014–2018
- Early normalization period: Shows like Steven Universe (Cartoon Network) and Adventure Time began to feature open representation. A coincidence that Barack Obama was president?
- Moderate risk: Some newer seasons or reboots added same-sex or gender-identity content.
2019–Present
- Widespread expansion: nearly all major studios (Disney, Netflix, Nickelodeon, PBS, Cartoon Network, Hulu) adopted “diversity and inclusion” mandates.
- High risk: LGBTQ+ storylines or characters are now common in most mainstream children’s programming.
A Simple Rule of Thumb for Parents
- Cartoons produced before 2014 — generally safe from LGBTQ+ content.
- Cartoons from 2014–2018 — review episodes individually; early seasons often fine, but reboots may add new themes.
- Cartoons after 2018 — assume inclusion unless verified otherwise (especially Netflix, Disney+, PBS, or Cartoon Network).
For complete peace of mind, stick to faith-based or classic family content from trusted sources, such as VeggieTales, Minno, Angel Studios, RightNow Media, and Yippee.
Networks and Shows to Avoid
Networks with consistent LGBTQ+ inclusion: Netflix, Disney Channel / Disney+, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, PBS, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Kids.
Examples of shows not suitable for children under a traditional Judeo-Christian standard:
- Netflix: Dead End, CoComelon Lane, Ada Twist, Princess Power, Ridley Jones
- Disney Channel / Disney+: The Owl House, Firebuds, Andi Mack, The Proud Family
- Cartoon Network: Steven Universe, Craig of the Creek, We Baby Bears
- Nickelodeon: The Loud House, SpongeBob SquarePants (spinoffs)
- Hulu / Amazon Prime: The Bravest Knight, Danger & Eggs
- PBS: Arthur (episode featuring Mr. Ratburn’s wedding)
What Parents Can Do
- Check episode summaries on reputable review sites like Common Sense Media and Focus on the Family’s Plugged In.
- Preview episodes—especially reboots or new seasons—before letting your children watch.
- Monitor streaming platforms that might include inclusion messages before or after main content (e.g., PBS Kids).
- Check release dates and episode descriptions; newer releases often add diversity content even in long-running series.
Faith-Based and Family-Friendly Alternatives
These platforms and series are designed to support parents’ values while offering quality entertainment:
Streaming Platforms
- RightNow Media
- Pure Flix
- Yippee
- Minno
- Angel Studios
Series and Programs
- VeggieTales
- Superbook
- Bibleman – Theo: Teaching Children God’s Word
- Hey-O! Stories of the Bible
- Laugh and Grow Bible
- Torchlighters: Heroes of the Faith
- Owlegories
- Tuttle Twins
Final Word
Parents and caregivers must be vigilant protectors of what their children watch, read, and absorb. Do not assume that major networks or streaming platforms have your family’s best interests in mind. We must actively defend our children’s innocence and shield them from content that undermines the values of faith, family, and truth—the cornerstones of our Judeo-Christian heritage.