Russian Streaming Site Deems “My Little Pony” Adult Content After Supreme Court Bans LGBTQ+ Activism
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One of Russia’s largest streaming services, Kinopoisk, has sparked controversy by giving an 18+ adult rating to the popular children’s cartoon series, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. The move is seen as an attempt to avoid violating the country’s prohibition on LGBTQ+ “propaganda.” While Kinopoisk did not provide an explanation for the rating, it is believed to be linked to the show’s final season, which features a same-sex couple.
My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic is a nine-season cartoon series aimed at viewers between the ages of four and seven. It follows a group of ponies, pegasi, and unicorns as they embark on adventures in the magical kingdom of Equestria. The show has gained a large following worldwide and has been praised for its positive messages and diverse characters.
One character in particular, Rainbow Dash, has often been interpreted as queer, despite not having a verified sexual orientation. The show’s final season introduced a same-sex couple, Aunt Holiday and Auntie Lofty, which may have prompted Kinopoisk’s decision to give it an adult rating.
The rating comes in the wake of Russia’s Supreme Court designating all supporters of LGBTQ+ rights as “extremists.” This declaration has had severe consequences, with Russian police raiding gay bars and clubs in Moscow. As a result, several LGBTQ+ establishments have announced their closure.
This recent move by Kinopoisk is not unprecedented. In 2012, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law expanding the country’s prohibition on LGBTQ+ “propaganda.” The law effectively bans any actions or spreading of information that promotes homosexuality in public, online, or in various forms of media.
This law has primarily been used to silence LGBTQ+ activist organizations, events, websites, and media outlets. It has also been used to disrupt families and harass teachers. The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and civil rights activists worldwide have all condemned this law.
Interestingly, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic challenges gender stereotypes and has garnered a passionate adult male fan base known as “Bronies.” The show features powerful female leaders and emphasizes authenticity, kindness, and communication in personal relationships. Some Bronies appreciate the cultural irony of enjoying a “girls’ cartoon,” while others simply appreciate the show’s animation and positive messages.
The creator of the series, Lauren Faust, has expressed pride in the show’s adult male fan base. She commends their open-mindedness and willingness to embrace a show traditionally aimed at young girls.
The controversy surrounding My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic and its 18+ rating highlights Russia’s strict stance on LGBTQ+ rights. By labeling a children’s cartoon as adult content, Kinopoisk is effectively censoring any positive representation of LGBTQ+ characters.
As the fight for LGBTQ+ rights continues globally, it is crucial to support inclusive media and challenge discriminatory practices. My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic may be a children’s show, but its messages of acceptance and friendship resonate with audiences of all ages. It is essential to ensure that all individuals have access to media content that reflects and celebrates their identities.
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