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‘Bluey’ Accused of Fat Shaming

Bluey
Credit: ABC

Bluey is quite possibly the most wholesome show that has ever graced our televisions. We seriously don’t deserve this show. The Australian cartoon features a family of Blue Heeler dogs that are beloved by all ages (my husband and I swear it’s as much for adults as it is for kids). In most episodes, the kids play pretend with their parents and learn valuable life lessons along the way. 

Related: Bluey Inspires Me to Be a Better Parent

The show has been praised for its accurate depictions of family life. Seriously, I’ve never felt as seen as when they showed the backseat of the Heeler’s car. 

Bluey

Credit: ABC

Related: Bluey Makes Big Appearance in p Thanksgiving Day Parade 

It’s inconceivable that this show could possibly be offensive. Right? Oh no, dear reader. This is the internet so someone’s going to find something. They always do. This time the internet warriors-at-large have decided that Bluey is “fat phobic.” 

The season 3 episode, “Exercise,” has become the ire of many for its depiction of weight loss and body image. At the beginning of the episode, we see Bandit step in the scale and lament the number he sees. He pinches his waist as his children pop out and ask him what he’s doing. He tells them he needs to exercise. The rest of the episode is spent with Bandit playing with his kids while exercising and teaching them the value of a healthy lifestyle. In the end, the whole family vows to make positive changes and prioritize exercise. 

Bluey

Credit: ABC

This wholesome lesson has caused quite a stir. Many have criticized the episode for emphasizing weight and appearance as indicators of health. They feel this is not a lesson children need as it creates body image issues. They feel children should instead be taught that exercise is important for everyone, regardless of weight. 

Others feel this is an example of adults over-thinking things and perverting a heartwarming episode of a father playing with his daughters (yes, Bluey is a girl). 

One person pointed out that he felt people are taking the episode way too personally and over reacting:

While another empathized with Bandit and his lack of personal time:

Related: Disney Reconsiders It’s Extreme Censorship of Bluey 

This episode of Bluey is currently only available in Australia. Disney Jr. Is relasing season 3 in the United States but on a delayed timetable. The episode did make an appearance on YouTube for a short time for ABC (Australian Brodcating Corperation) to promote the new season.

About Jill Bivins

Jill Bivins has been visiting Disney Parks since she was 2 years old and loves sharing her Disney adventures with the world. She likes to say Disney is in her blood and writing is in her bones — so any time she has the opportunity to combine these loves she is one happy camper! She has a deep abiding love for Epcot and as a die hard Star Wars fan has a serious love for Hollywood Studios as well. When she isn't exploring or writing about Disney Parks, Jill is homeschooling her 8 year old son, playing with her brand new baby son, or pretending to be a farmer on her family homestead (despite being unable to keep even a cactus alive). Find Jill on Instagram @minnieonmain.