‘Steven Universe’ creator talks busting heteronormativity with cartoons

Cartoon Network’s ‘Steven Universe’ has gathered much attention for its positive representation of queer characters in children’s programming, featuring two lesbian couples among primary cast and touching on numerous LGBTIQ+ themes throughout its story arcs.

Speaking with Movie Pilot, creator Rebecca Sugar explains the intention behind her decision to include diverse sexualities in her work.

“You can’t wait until kids have grown up to let them know that queer people exist,” she said.

“There’s this idea that that is something that should only be discussed with adults – that is completely wrong. If you wait to tell queer youth that it matters how they feel or that they are even a person, then it’s going to be too late!”

Though there has been a vocal social media movement to give Elsa of Disney’s ‘Frozen’ a girlfriend in the upcoming sequel, Sugar notes Disney’s role in only portraying heteronormative romance in all of their iconic animations.

“I think a lot about fairy tales and Disney movies and the way that love is something that’s always discussed with children. You’re told that you should dream about love, about this fulfilling love that you’re going to have,” she remarked.

“The prince and Snow White aren’t someone’s parents, they’re someone you wanna be. You’re sort of dreaming about a future where you will find happiness. Why shouldn’t everyone that [sic]? I loved Disney movies when I was little, but I didn’t really feel like they were me, ever.”

Steven Universe airs in Australia on Foxtel’s Cartoon Network.

OIP Staff

H/T: Movie Pilot