Pixar’s upcoming Disney+ series Win or Lose has become a lightning rod for debate ahead of its February 2025 premiere. The animated show, which tells the story of the “Pickles,” a middle school co-ed softball team, was set to include a storyline about a transgender character. However, Pixar recently confirmed that the storyline had been removed, sparking conversations online about representation in children’s media.
The Cut Scene
Each episode of Win or Lose focuses on a different character’s perspective as they prepare for their championship game. One episode was supposed to highlight Kai, who struggles with gender identity. While Kai remains part of the series, Pixar cut all references to their gender identity after receiving feedback from parents.
“When it comes to animated content for a younger audience, we recognize that many parents would prefer to discuss certain subjects with their children on their own terms and timeline,” a Disney spokesperson said.
The decision has drawn criticism from former Disney employees, fans, and the character’s voice actress. Many believe the removal diminishes the opportunity for meaningful LGBTQIA+ representation in a show targeted at younger audiences.
Win or Lose Scene Leaked
Following the announcement, a rough draft of the now-cut scene was leaked online. Social media user @LostMediaBuster shared the footage on X (formerly Twitter), explaining that they had access to the video but waited to release it until they confirmed it had been removed from the series.
🚨BREAKING🚨: Here’s the entire now-removed LGBTQ+ scene from Pixar’s Win Or Lose.
https://twitter.com/lostmediabuster/status/1869126826905469385
The scene shows Kai using a women’s restroom, where they panic after being noticed by a younger girl. Their reflection distorts in the mirror, symbolizing their gender dysphoria and longing for a body that aligns with their identity.
Later, Kai receives a call from their father, who refers to them as his “son.” As their reflection continues to distort, Kai is comforted by their coach, who reassures them with unconditional support.
The footage, originally without audio, was uploaded by the X user with Space Mountain music overlaid. Pixar has not commented on the authenticity of the leak.
Fans Respond
The leaked scene has reignited conversations about the importance of representation in children’s programming. Many fans expressed disappointment that Pixar chose to remove the storyline. From @RozettaArt:
THIS IS SUCH GOOD COMMENTARY AND A GENUINELY GREAT REPRESENTATION ABOUT WHAT IT CAN BE LIKE
DISNEYYYYYYY
THIS IS SUCH GOOD COMMENTARY AND A GENUINELY GREAT REPRESENTATION ABOUT WHAT IT CAN BE LIKE
DISNEYYYYYYY
— Chloe Rozetta (@RozettaArt) December 18, 2024
Others were surprised at the scene’s subtlety and wondered why it generated so much controversy.
“Really? Thats it? Thats the big Scary transgender scene that they had to delete?” asked @EliIDK8.
Really? Thats it? Thats the big Scary transgender scene that they had to delete? pic.twitter.com/xK0BiYB5zu
— YoungOldWisk (@EliIDK8) December 17, 2024
What do you think of the deleted Win or Lose scene? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!
