Disney has made progress in its efforts to prioritize inclusion and representation of diverse cultures and groups, especially those in the LGBTQ + community.
From changing dress codes for Cast Members at theme parks to introducing LGBTQ + characters in their movies and series, and more, Disney continues to push for inclusion and acceptance for all. One show that has been a leader in Disney’s promotion of on-screen inclusiveness is The owl house on Disney Channel.
The show is already in its second season and was the first to have two main characters from the LGBTQ + community on the show (Luz Noceda and Amity Blight). Now, The owl house makes history again by introducing the first official non-binary character in a Disney IP address.
Avi Roque, an actor who also identifies as non-binary, transgender, and queer, voices Raine Whispers, a non-binary character in The owl house who guest stars in Season 2, Episode 7 (“Eda’s Requiem”).
Avi (@ok_roque) tweeted how much of a dream the role has come true for them when the news broke.
THE DREAM BECOMES REALITY.
I played the role of Raine Whispers (pronouns: they / them), the sharp and hardworking head witch of the Bard Coven, in the new episode of #TheOwlHouse which airs July 24 at 10:00 a.m.ET / PT on #DisneyChannel and DisneyNOW. Make sure to check it out !!
? THE DREAM IS ACHIEVED✨?
I play the role of Raine Whispers (pronouns: they / them), the sharp and hardworking head witch of the Bard Coven, in the new episode of #The owl
premieres July 24 at 10 a.m.ET / PT on #Disney Channel and DisneyNOW. Make sure to check it out !! pic.twitter.com/zRkaGIDAgd– Avi Roque (@ok_roque) July 22, 2021
While we have started to see many characters in Disney movies and series identify as gay or bisexual, we have yet to see a character – especially an animated character in a Disney Channel series – who is not binary and uses pronouns, so the inclusion of this new character in The owl house is a huge moment for Disney, and probably one that we will continue to see in the future in other forms of IP.
You can watch Avi’s episode from The owl house, and more by clicking here!
What do you think of Disney’s decision to create a non-binary character in one of their animated shows?
