Thu Mar 06 00:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Disney’s Pixar Introduces Openly Christian Character Amidst Backlash and Political Shift
**London, UK** – Disney’s new Pixar animated series, *Win or Lose*, has sparked controversy following the introduction of an openly Christian character, Laurie, shortly after the removal of a transgender storyline. The move comes amid a broader cultural shift towards conservatism, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s second term.
The series, which premiered on Disney+ on February 19, 2025, follows a middle school softball team. The debut episode features Laurie, whose Christian faith is explicitly shown through dialogue and religious imagery in her bedroom. This marks the first openly Christian character in a Disney film since 2007’s *Bridge to Terabithia*.
The inclusion of Laurie follows the removal of a storyline referencing a character’s gender identity, a decision Disney attributed to wanting parents to discuss such subjects with their children on their own terms. This decision fueled criticism, particularly given President Trump’s past criticisms of Disney for what he terms “woke” policies. Disney’s recent $15 million settlement in a defamation lawsuit with ABC News, further illustrates a perceived effort to appease the Trump administration.
A Newsweek poll by Redfield and Wilton Strategies found 34 percent of viewers disapproved of Disney’s previous attempts to incorporate more LGBTQ+ themes. President Trump’s recent executive order rolling back transgender rights underscores the political context surrounding this shift in Disney’s approach to inclusion.
Social media reactions are mixed, with some praising the show’s quality while others criticize the removal of the transgender storyline and express varying opinions on the new character’s introduction. *Win or Lose* continues to air weekly until March 12th, with a second season yet unannounced. Newsweek has contacted Disney for comment.
First Piper 