Bluey 'fat-shaming' episode re-edited after feedback from experts
Animated kids' series Bluey has re-edited an episode following 'fat-shaming' concerns raised by viewers and experts.
An episode called 'Exercise' from season three of the Australian children's show depicts Bluey's father Bandit embarking on a diet.
One scene shows the character stand on the scales and grab his stomach in-front of Bluey and his mother.
"Oh man ... I just need to do some exercise," Bandit says, while squeezing his sides.
"Tell me about it," Bluey's mother, Chilli, responds.
The scene has since been called out by some viewers for promoting an unhealthy message to children about weight-loss and body image.
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Health experts also gave their thoughts on the episode, with paediatric dietitian Dr Kyla Ringrose writing: "Watching Bandit and Chilli weigh themselves and openly hate on their bodies in front of the kids was really uncomfortable." (via Deadline)
Following the backlash ABC have released a statement confirming that they have altered the episode.
"The recent episode of Bluey, 'Exercise', has been republished by the ABC following a decision by the makers of the program," a spokesperson for the network stated.
"The new version provides families with the opportunity to manage important conversations in their own way."
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They continued: "As the home of Bluey, the ABC supports the decision to re-edit the program and we have updated the episode on our platforms. BBC Studios will use this revised version for global distribution and also support this decision."
The original episode had aired in Australia on April 16, with the edited version set to premiere on Disney+.
The Emmy award winning series follows titular character Bluey, a Blue Heeler puppy known for the energy and his family. Following its success in Australia the show has gone on to be broadcast in 60 countries.
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