Snoop Dogg Admits He’s “Scared” to Take His Grandkids to the Movies After Watching ‘Lightyear’
For decades, Pixar Animation Studios has delivered timeless films that have captivated audiences of all ages. From the beloved Toy Story (1995) franchise to more recent hits like Coco (2017) and Elemental (2023), the studio has consistently produced stories that not only entertain but also leave lasting emotional impacts.
However, with the release of Lightyear in 2022, Pixar found itself at the center of a heated debate. While the film was intended to expand the Toy Story universe by exploring the origin story of Buzz Lightyear, it also introduced a controversial element that would spark conversations across families, critics, and the media.
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In recent years, Pixar’s Lightyear has been at the center of significant controversy, especially regarding its groundbreaking inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters. As one of the most anticipated films in the Toy Story universe, Lightyear tells the story of Buzz Lightyear, the beloved space ranger.
Yet, it was the film’s portrayal of a lesbian couple—complete with a same-sex kiss—that ignited debates about representation in children’s media. While some fans embraced the new depiction, others were disturbed by its inclusion.
Among the voices weighing in was none other than legendary rapper and pop culture icon, Snoop Dogg, who recently opened up about his personal reaction to the film in an interview on the It’s Giving podcast. Snoop Dogg has never been one to shy away from expressing his opinions on social matters, and his reaction to Lightyear was no exception.
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The film’s inclusion of a same-sex kiss between characters Alisha Hawthorne and her wife was a bold move for Pixar, but it was not without its critics. The controversy began when the kiss was initially removed from the movie before being reinstated due to backlash from various countries.
Despite the film’s focus on adventure and space exploration, it was the moments of LGBTQ+ visibility that became a lightning rod for discussion. While many celebrated the progressive step, others, like Snoop Dogg, found themselves conflicted.
In the It’s Giving podcast, he recounted his experience, Snoop Dogg explained, “What you see is what you see, and they’re putting it everywhere.” He elaborated on his discomfort with how the topic of two women raising a child was introduced in the film, noting that his young grandson was perplexed by the idea.
“They’re like, ‘She had a baby — with another woman.’ Well, my grandson, in the middle of the movie is like, ‘Papa Snoop? How she have a baby with a woman? She’s a woman!’”
“Oh s**t, I didn’t come in for this s**t. I just came to watch the go***mn movie.’ ‘They just said, she and she had a baby — they’re both women. How does she have a baby?’”
“It f***ed me up. I’m like, scared to go to the movies. Y’all throwing me in the middle of s**t that I don’t have an answer for… It threw me for a loop. I’m like, ‘What part of the movie was this?’ These are kids. We have to show that at this age? They’re going to ask questions. I don’t have the answer.”
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Despite Snoop Dogg’s personal discomfort, it’s important to recognize the broader significance of Lightyear‘s inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters. Pixar’s decision to portray a loving, same-sex couple in a family-friendly movie was a groundbreaking moment in cinema. As the first Disney film to feature a same-sex kiss, Lightyear sent a clear message of inclusion and acceptance.
However, not everyone has been receptive to these progressive steps. The film’s release saw a wave of criticism from those who felt that children’s films were not the appropriate platform for discussing such topics.
Snoop Dogg’s comments reflect a segment of the audience that feels unsettled by the rapid societal changes that have led to more open discussions about LGBTQ+ rights. While his reaction may seem extreme to some, it raises important questions about the role of media in shaping young minds and how different generations process the evolving narratives of acceptance.
It is crucial to note, however, that Snoop Dogg’s perspective is not unique. Many parents, especially those from more conservative backgrounds, have expressed similar concerns about the increasing visibility of LGBTQ+ characters in children’s programming. While some see it as a necessary step toward building a more inclusive world, others worry about the implications of exposing young children to complex topics before they are ready to understand them.
Snoop Dogg is slated to headline the Australian Football League’s Grand Final on September 27. However, his appearance has sparked significant backlash, particularly in the wake of an AFL player being recently suspended for using a homophobic slur. Australia is widely regarded as an LGBTQ+-friendly nation, with robust anti-discrimination laws in place.
What do you think of Snoop Dogg’s comments about being “scared” to go to the movies with his grandkids? Do you think it’s a good thing that more children’s movies are showcasing LGBTQ+ representation? Is it a step in the right direction that movies show the world as it is today? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!