Animated debate about transformation in animation, but there is movement
A number of white actors are walking away from characters of colour they have been been voicing in cartoon films and series
14 August 2020 - 05:00
It’s taken a while but finally, perhaps given a kick in the proverbial backside by the recent pressures of the Black Lives Matter protests in the US, the issue of representation in animated series and feature films seems to be leading to much-needed changes in the industry.
In 2017, American comedian and writer Hari Kondabolu, who is of Indian descent, made a documentary called The Problem with Apu, in which he argued that the portrayal of the beloved shop owner character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, by white actor Hank Azaria, had damaging consequences for attitudes towards Indians in the US...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.