Disney's 'Andi Mack' Breaks Boundaries Introducing a Gay Storyline

By SheSpeaksTeam Oct 27, 2017

If you’ve ever had a glimpse of your tween or teen’s Disney Channel shows, you are well aware of all the drama, humor, adventure and downright silliness. Just like our grown-up shows, the diverse storylines aim to keep kids tuning in each week. And now, one of Disney’s most popular shows aims to break some boundaries in the process. Andi Mack will be the first show on the network to introduce a gay storyline, complete with the drama of two teens crushing on the same boy.

BBC reports about the show’s move to be inclusive as well as ensuring it remains appropriate for all viewing audiences. The new storyline will focus on best friends Andi and Cyrus who realize they both have a crush on the same boy. A Disney spokesperson says the show “sends a powerful message about inclusion and respect for humanity.”

The season premiere, which will be this Friday, focuses on 13 year old Andi who begins to be attracted to a boy she knows. The plot sounds simple, but when Andi’s best friend Cyrus begins to realize he also has feelings for the same boy - things get complicated. In subsequent episodes, we follow Cyrus as his family and friends help him to understand and be comfortable with his new feelings.

Actor, Joshua Rush, who plays Cyrus, was proud to bring this story to life for the first time on Disney and hopes it can help others struggling with some of the same feelings. He writes on his Instagram, “Starting conversations about trust, love, relationships and family dynamics is easier when you have a show that you can relate to. Andi Mack gives young people and their parents, mentors, and champions a meaningful way to talk about these topics and the power to decide their futures. I’m so proud to bring Cyrus’ groundbreaking storyline to life and for you to see what we’ve been working on.”

What do you think of Disney’s ground breaking Andi Mack storyline?

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Comments

by Mommy7toad | Englewood, FL

Dec 02, 2017

Disney already has started this on Doc McStuffins. On that show she has a family living in the block neighborhood that is "non traditional". It is a bi racial family and this family is 2 moms and 2 children. The adult voices are Wanda Sykes and Portia DeRossi. So Disney is not new to this, just introducing to a different age. Whether we agree it not, these are the types of relationships already in our world. By representing everyone on TV, maybe children will become more inclusive and less prone to bullying because they will be accepted for who they are. Just hoping.

by edjona | NAPERVILLE, IL

Dec 01, 2017

My kids will not be watching this show. No thanks. There's plenty of shows out there which do not shove these types of topics in your face! I want my kids to be kids...

by Olivia-Monet | Wharton, OH

Nov 16, 2017

I think this is a bit ridiculous. I don't think they need to be showing this kind of thing on Disney Channel. I know that tolerance and self expression are important to teach kids, but they're already growing up in that environment. I think putting it on children's shows for all to see is just going too far and will just make people uncomfortable. The station will just be getting more complaints than compliments from parents about it.

by Sohair | Alsip, IL

Nov 06, 2017

I don't like it not a fan why do we have to show our kids these topics too young to learn about these things not necessary to include in a disney show