LGBTQ Themes Proliferate in Children’s Programming on Netflix: Parents Sound Alarmed

Concerned parents have reported feeling increasingly troubled by the rising presence of LGBTQ themes in children’s programming available through major streaming services. A new report, released by Concerned Women for America (CWA), suggests that these elements are becoming far more common than previously thought.

The organization analyzed a vast array of content on Netflix and found alarming rates of such representation. According to their analysis of 326 shows rated TV-G or TV-Y7—categories deemed appropriate for children—the frequency of LGBTQ themes is significantly higher than one might expect from demographic realities.

Penny Nance, the CWA’s CEO, expressed astonishment at how deeply these themes have penetrated programming targeted even toward young children. “I was most surprised that they had even targeted preschool children,” she stated in an interview. “Over 20% of content aimed at the youngest audiences includes LGBTQ themes.”

The report highlights that what began as a noticeable trend following viral moments like the introduction of transgender characters in shows such as Dead End: Paranormal Park, is now systemic across much of Netflix’s library and new releases.

CWA researchers pointed out that this surge coincided with increased streaming time during COVID-19 lockdowns, which may have contributed to parents noticing a marked shift. Nance also noted the irony that while Netflix promotes diversity in other areas, its children’s content features disproportionately high rates of LGBTQ representation, suggesting it may be prioritized despite concerns about appropriateness for young viewers.

The report argues that current rating systems may not adequately protect children from such themes and calls into question their reliability. “Parents are being gaslit,” Nance said, urging vigilance against relying solely on age ratings when selecting media content for minors.