Mary Poppins rating changed due to complaints

Complaints about Mary Poppins' language have led to a change in its age rating.

Mary Poppins faces backlash over outdated language

Mary Poppins, the iconic Disney musical released in 1964, has recently become the most complained-about film in the UK. This year, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) changed its rating from U to PG after receiving 56 complaints regarding the use of the term "hottentots," a derogatory reference to a group of South African herders. The term is used twice in the film by a character named Admiral Boom, played by Reginald Owen. The BBFC's decision reflects a growing concern about outdated language and its potential impact on young viewers, especially as the Disney classic remains a staple in family entertainment.

The pushback against Mary Poppins highlights a broader societal shift where older media is scrutinized for language that, while historical, may perpetuate negative stereotypes. David Austin, the BBFC's chief executive, emphasized that the term is introduced without condemnation, increasing the risk of it being repeated by children unaware of its prejudicial context. This situation indicates a growing awareness and intolerance for racially insensitive language in classic films, which could lead to more discussions on how to handle legacy content responsibly.

Highlights

As society evolves, classic films may need to be approached with renewed care.