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He’s back?! Since the film came out in 2009, a wave of controversy has emerged over the character of Dr. Facilier in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, sparking significant backlash from various Christian groups. The character, a villainous witch doctor who practices dark magic, has become the focal point of criticism for what some argue are troubling portrayals of spiritual and religious themes.
Credit: Disney
Disney Character Causes Controversy
Dr. Facilier, also known as the Shadow Man, is depicted as a malevolent sorcerer who uses his powers to manipulate others and ultimately seeks to unleash chaos in New Orleans. His character is central to the film’s conflict, employing voodoo magic to achieve his nefarious goals. While his portrayal is intended to serve as a traditional Disney villain, it has drawn criticism for its representation of occult practices.
Several Christian organizations have voiced concerns that Dr. Facilier’s character promoted the use of black magic. Other advocates believe that the character perpetuates negative stereotypes about voodoo and the broader spiritual practices associated with it. They argue that the film’s depiction may misrepresent and stigmatize these beliefs, causing harm by reinforcing misconceptions and fueling prejudice.
Credit: Disney
There is no doubt that Princess and the Frog does feature one of Disney’s darker villain characters. In the movie, there are times when you can see him and his voodoo spirits maliciously hurt others through the use of black magic. Thaisha Geiger, a writer from Christiananswers.net explained:
“Magic is expected in almost any fairy tale movie. However, the magic in “The Princess and the Frog” is rather dark and demonic. As a reviewer, I felt troubled that this movie was given a G rating. Within the story, there’s a lengthy tarot-card reading, Dr. Facilier stating he has “friends on the other side,” and evil spirits who hunt Prince Naveen down and drag him away. Mama Odie, another voodoo magician, is shown positively. There’s also a voodoo doll made for one of the characters, His heart is almost stabbed for his intended murder.”
Many fans believe that the controversy over this character could be part of the reason why Disney chose to not include him in the storyline created for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Many fans also have noticed that the character has rarely been seen for meet and greets throughout Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort theme parks.
Disney Revives Controversial Character
However, it now seems that Disney may have reversed their initial decision to eliminate this character. It was just confirmed today that Dr. Facilier would be taking residence aboard the new Disney Cruise line ship, the Disney Destiny, alongside other villains.
so Facilier is too problematic for the ride, but not for the new cruise ship???
im honestly kinda confused by that. cant even write it off as disney not actually caring, this just feels like all kinda of mixed up pic.twitter.com/ErvgJNS1wD— SpyroFlight (@SpyroFlight) July 31, 2024
While some fans are thrilled by this news, others cant help but wonder why Disney decided to bring back such a polarizing character. Time will tell whether or not Disney ends up regretting this choice. What do you think?
HE IS A CARTOON! If you can’t handle that I feel sorry for you.
It is too bad there are so many people who’s only purpose in life is to find something that offends them in everything then push for change or cancelling of whatever they choose. These people need to get a grip and start contributing something useful instead of thinking the world revolves around them. If you feel the need to change the world find something useful to change and not worrying about your first world problems of cartoon characters evil agendas.
Wow, tells the ignorance of these people. If they would do their research they would find that voodoo is actually not dark at all and is in fact recognized by the Catholic church. I guess though I really did not know that myself until I went to New Orleans and learned the history of voodoo, but even if the church did not recognize it, everyone needs to calm down. Dr. Facilier is the villain so if he is practicing a darker, more sinister version of voodoo then he gets his comeuppance in the end so what’s the problem?
Don’t like it, don’t watch it. Voodoo exists.
Wish Disney used same rules when censoring.
Why can’t people just mind their own business & not ruin things for the rest of us?! Like someone else said, if you don’t like it, then don’t watch it!
I don’t care! Can’t afford to go to the parks anyway!
Seriously? These groups fascinate me! They want to shove their beliefs onto everyone. This is a cartoon character and FICTIONAL! If they’re unable to understand and teach their children to understand fiction, maybe stop going to movies! But I’ll decide what’s ok for me and mine!!!
P.S. I also understand voodoo is real, but this character is NOT!