For real life. Bluey, one of Australia’s most successful children’s shows, is going under the editing knife for its depiction of fat shaming. The season three episode, Exercise, follows the Heeler family on a health-conscious journey, motivated to exercise to be in their best shape. Yet, Bluey’s parents, Bandit and Chili, step on the scale and are disappointed by the numbers, with Bandit taking a grip on his stomach. When Bluey questions her father’s reaction, he says he needs to exercise but has no time due to work and taking care of his kids.
For reference, here is the unedited version, found on Youtube:
Many Bluey fans online felt the scene was inappropriate for younger audiences due to the fat-shaming portrayal, as it may leave a negative mental mark. The ABC (Australia) network, in which the series is broadcasted, decided to make a change and edited the scene. A recent press release from ABC further elaborates on their choice.
"The recent episode of Bluey, Exercise, has been republished by the ABC following a decision by the makers of the program. The new version provides families with the opportunity to manage important conversations in their own way.As the home of Bluey, the ABC supports the decision to re-edit the program and we have updated the episode on our platforms.BBC Studios will use this revised version for global distribution and also support this decision."
“Exercise” is not the only episode that received censoring. In the US, a handful of episodes have been edited on the Disney+ platform. However, the original versions can still be watched in Australia.
Despite this change, Bluey remains famous around the globe. Aside from the series, Ludo Studios, the creation company behind the animated series, marketed a successful merchandise line that includes toys, DVDs, books, fashions, and even home goods and snacks. The Blue Heeler pup was even the “star” of the 2022 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Do you agree with the editing choice? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments.