“SLAY BUZZ!”: Buzz Lightyear is the Newest LGBTQ+ Ally

Disney’s LGBTQ+ representation is a controversial subject.

The Walt Disney Company has received backlash from every side of the spectrum, with those who believe that the LGBTQ representation is bad and inappropriate for audiences, as well as those who believe the company is not doing enough (particularly during the Don’t Say Gay controversy in Florida involving Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis when former Disney CEO Bob Chapek was at the helm). While the Mouse House has done more in recent years to be inclusive of those individuals who identify with the community, many have been frustrated with the Walt Disney Company’s “flip-flopping.”

Despite this, it’s apparent that Disney is taking steps to better represent the community, whether through their Pride Month celebrations or through their movies and TV shows. Importantly, fans are also embracing Disney’s effort by recognizing old and new characters, applauding them for being wonderful allies—as was the case with one iconic character from Pixar’s Toy Story franchise.

Most recently, fans commended Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allen in the original movies and Chris Evans in Lightyear), for being an LGBTQ+ ally for a Cast Member’s heartening performance in a recent parade.

TikTok user BrittBrattCattt uploaded a video earlier this week showing the beloved character grabbing a rainbow flag and strutting his stuff (complete with a very impressive back bend) during the parade!

@brittbrattcattt

Buzz is an ALLY (now canon) #disney #waltdisneyworld #hollywoodstudios #toystory #buzzlightyear #pride #pridemonth #ally

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Fans were delighted with the performance and made their feelings clear in the comments.

One shared a succinct, “SLAY BUZZ!”

Others referenced the “Mrs. Nesbitt” scene, commenting, “YAS MRS NESBITT WERK.”

One fan even speculated on the character’s sexuality, “You can’t tell me Buzz isn’t at least a little bi. Come on, there’s definitely some underlying tones with Woody!”

The OP uploaded the video with the caption, “Buzz is an ALLY (now canon).”

The Disney Parks—both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort—have always been for people of all identities and backgrounds, and it’s very heartening to see Guests and Cast Members enjoying themselves while at the Parks!