First Parents Warned Against ‘Bluey,’ Now Star Speaks Out About “Fatphobic” Episode

Bluey star Melanie Zanetti defended the show’s controversial fatphobic scene a few days after parents expressed unhappiness with the show.

One of the most beloved children’s cartoons that has become incredibly popular is the Australian television show Bluey. The show, which premiered on October 1, 2018, follows six-year-old Bluey Heeler (a Blue Heeler puppy), who has an abundance of energy and imagination and is incredibly curious about the world. She lives with her family—Bandit Heeler, Chilli Heeler, and Bingo—in a setting inspired by Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane.

The show, while touted as being wonderful for children—and immensely popular—has seen its fair share of controversy, from parents being warned against it to being accused of promoting fatphobia. Recently, Bluey star Melanie Zanetti spoke out, defending the show against its fatphobic accusations.

Read More: Scene Removed from ‘Bluey’ After Being Accused of Fat Shaming

Melanie Zanetti spoke to The Daily Mail, explaining, “Obviously, it wasn’t intended that way,” on the subject of the recent controversy over what critics called a ‘fatphobic’ episode of the show.

“[They] removed that bit that wasn’t necessary and [weren’t] defensive or reactionary. And that’s a testament to the producers and the team.” She added. “One of my favourite parts of the show is we have examples of the parents owning their mistakes and apologising…There are people who disagreed with the removing of [the scene], but we’re trying to look after as many people as possible and be as inclusive as possible.”

The episode in question is titled “Exercise,” and the controversy centered around Bluey’s dad, Bandit Heeler, deciding he needed to get fit after complaining about his “expanding stomach.” Some parents felt this messaging was “toxic.”

Related: Parents Warned About Allowing Children to Watch Hit Show ‘Bluey’

Why is the Cartoon Bluey So Popular?

Bluey has won the hearts of many parents and kids alike because of its accessible and inclusive voice. The show is known to never talk down to its audience and always bring people into the story in a welcoming manner.

The show also features intelligent humor that is catered to adults who might be watching it with their children; while the jokes may go over kids’ heads, it’s perfect for its intended audience. It is also celebrated for being a realistic representation of parenting today, complete with various issues parents face while sharing a message of hope and positivity.

Bluey creator Joe Brumm modeled the cartoon phenomenon on his own parenting experience.

Is Bluey a Good Cartoon For Kids?

The cartoon is also excellent for children as it features vibrant colors and a varied soundtrack for children to stay engaged and captivated while also touching on important topics in an easily digestible manner. The show also encourages good habits for children; since it’s aimed at preschool children, this can often look like brushing their teeth, taking a bath, or eating their vegetables.

Bluey was created by Australian animator Joe Brumm, who wanted to create the Australian version of Peppa Pig. It’s produced by Queensland-based company Ludo Studio and was commissioned by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation and the British Broadcasting Corporation.

United Kingdom-based BBC Studios holds the global distribution and merchandising rights to the show. Bluey made its premiere on Disney Junior in the United States, and the Walt Disney Company has the rights to stream it internationally on Disney+.

Stay tuned to Disney Fanatic for all the latest Disney children’s television series news.