Work

Disney in Black and White: An Analysis of Race Representation Within Disney Animated Films From 1937 to 2021

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study examined Disney studios’ portrayals of race as it relates to the physical, mental, and social characteristics of major characters ( N = 319) within Disney animated films released from 1937 to 2021 ( N = 59). Findings revealed most of the characters featured were portrayed as White (68.3%) whereas BIPOC characters made up 31.7% of the total. Results suggest that BIPOC characters were significantly more likely to be featured in supporting character roles, with White characters featured in both the protagonist and antagonist roles. We further observed a limited integration of characters of varying races in a singular film.

Source: Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly

DOI: 10.1177/10776990241284795

Authors: Jessica D. Zurcher, Pamela Jo Brubaker, Abbie Speed, Jane Shawcroft, J. Andan Sheppard, Sarah M. Coyne, Chenae Christensen-Duerden, Dallin R. Adams

Institutions: Brigham Young University, University of Utah

Language: English

Topic: Media, Gender, and Advertising

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W4403798846

FWCI: 1.48

Cites: 67

Cited by: 2

Related to: 10