Elon Musk, the billionaire investor and owner of X (formerly Twitter), recently took to social media to criticize Disney’s inclusion initiatives. In a series of tweets, Musk referred to these initiatives as “mandatory, institutionalized racism and sexism.” His comments were sparked by an alleged leak of Disney’s inclusion standards for its General Entertainment Content.
The leaked document, which Musk published on his Twitter account, outlined the standards that Disney has set for itself in terms of hiring actors and writers from underrepresented groups. These standards include a goal of having 50 percent or more of regular and recurring actors and written characters come from underrepresented backgrounds. While the document listed ABC Entertainment at the top, it is believed to reflect the broader inclusion standards for Disney’s portfolio of television brands and businesses.
Musk didn’t stop at criticizing Disney’s inclusion standards; he went on to call them discriminatory and accused the company of stifling creativity. He claimed that the creative process would be hindered by navigating the “DEI minefield,” referring to Disney’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) standards. Furthermore, he expressed his belief that Walt Disney himself would have despised Bob Iger, the company’s CEO.
Disney’s inclusion standards have been a topic of discussion within the company. Karey Burke, Disney’s president of general entertainment content, has expressed her desire to see more LGBT representation in Disney characters. She even revealed that she has two queer children, one transgender and one pansexual. According to The Rubin Report, her goal is to have half of all Disney characters identify as either LGBT or a minority.
Disney has also highlighted its commitment to inclusive storytelling on its website. The company cites various studios and organizations that have adopted policies and practices to promote representation and respect for all communities. The company has also developed representation guidelines for its content, with people of color accounting for 40 percent of its directors, 49 percent of its series regulars and leads, and 41 percent of its on-air representation.
Musk’s criticism of Disney’s inclusion standards comes at a time when the company has faced controversy surrounding its casting choices in live-action adaptations and remakes. The upcoming live-action adaptation of “Snow White” has drawn attention for casting half-Colombian, half-white actress Rachel Zegler in the lead role. Similarly, the decision to cast a black actress, Halle Bailey, as Ariel in the live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid” has sparked debate.
In response to Musk’s comments, actress Gina Carano filed a lawsuit against Lucasfilm and The Walt Disney Company, alleging discrimination based on her conservative political views. Musk offered his support to Carano and encouraged others who believe they have been impacted by Disney’s DEI policies to come forward for legal assistance.
While Musk’s criticism may have stirred controversy, it has also shed light on the ongoing discussions surrounding diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. Disney’s efforts to increase representation and tell more inclusive stories have both supporters and critics. As the industry continues to navigate these issues, it remains to be seen how Disney and other companies will respond to the challenges raised by Musk and others.
