Disney+ Cancelled in Protest: How Parents Explained the Situation to Their Kids

Last week, California-based voice actor Rachel Kimsey and her husband, Matthew Waterson, made an interesting decision that sparked a meaningful conversation in their household. They decided to cancel their Disney+ subscription. Now, they’ve never been ones to shy away from tough topics with their three kids, who are 7, 5, and 3 years old. Their family talks about everything from politics to labor unions, so when they brought up the idea of a boycott, it opened the door to a whole new dialogue.

Their choice to cancel Disney+ came after late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was temporarily suspended by ABC for comments he made about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. This move led to calls to boycott Disney, sparking a debate among viewers about what constitutes free speech. Kimmel has since been reinstated, but the boycott of Disney+ prompted many parents to consider how to talk to their kids about politics and collective action.

For Rachel and Matthew, Friday movie nights are a cherished tradition in their home. Disney productions have played roles in their careers, as they’ve both worked in television, advertising, and audiobooks for the media giant. When Rachel explained to her kids why they were canceling Disney+, it opened the door to a discussion about values-driven choices and the power of collective action.

However, not every family approached the conversation in the same way. Kelsey Waits in Minnesota shared that her two children, aged 15 and 12, reacted differently to the Disney boycott. Her elder daughter saw it as a social justice issue, while her younger child, who has experienced trauma related to their identity, was shielded from political conversations. Kelsey and her husband used a “Star Wars” analogy to explain the situation to their kids, making it easier for them to understand the concept of standing up for what they believe in.

Experts recommend being clear and consistent when talking to kids about changes like boycotts. Framing decisions in terms of family values rather than complex politics can make it easier for children to grasp the situation. For anxious children, it’s important to be intentional about when and where these conversations take place, providing a safe space for them to ask questions and share their thoughts.

While the Disney controversy may have settled down, the challenge of raising kids in a divided society remains. Families are increasingly faced with navigating the intersection of consumer choices, politics, and values. Parents like Rachel and Kelsey aim to encourage critical thinking in their children, allowing them to form their own opinions on important issues.

As for the Kimsey-Waterson family, their kids were curious to know if they would resubscribe to Disney+ now that Kimmel is back on air. The decision is still up in the air, but one thing is for sure—this experience has sparked invaluable conversations about values, beliefs, and standing up for what you think is right.