Disney has been moving forward in their efforts to prioritize inclusion and representation of diverse cultures and groups, especially those in the LGBTQ+ community.
From changing Cast Member dress codes in the theme parks to introducing LGBTQ+ characters in their films and series, and much more, Disney is continuing to push for inclusion and acceptance of all people. One show that has been a leader when it comes to Disney promoting inclusivity on-screen is The Owl House on Disney Channel.
The show is already on its second season and was the first to have two leading characters from the LGBTQ+ community in the show (Luz Noceda and Amity Blight). Now, The Owl House is making history once again by introducing the first official non-binary character into a Disney IP.
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 the role was a dream come true for them when the news went public.
DREAM COME TRUE.
I guest star as Raine Whispers (pronouns: they/them), the sharp and hardworking Head Witch of the Bard Coven, in the new episode of #TheOwlHouse premiering July 24 at 10:00am ET/PT on #DisneyChannel and DisneyNOW. Make sure to check it out!!
?✨DREAM COME TRUE✨?
I guest star as Raine Whispers (pronouns: they/them), the sharp and hardworking Head Witch of the Bard Coven, in the new episode of #TheOwlHouse
premiering July 24 at 10:00am ET/PT on #DisneyChannel and DisneyNOW. Make sure to check it out!! pic.twitter.com/zRkaGIDAgd— Avi Roque (@ok_roque) July 22, 2021
Although we have started to see many characters in Disney films and series identify as gay or bisexual, we have not yet seen a character — especially an animated character in a Disney Channel series — who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, so the inclusion of this new character in The Owl House is a massive moment for Disney, and likely one we will continue to see in the future in other forms of IP.
You can catch Avi’s episode of 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?