NEWS: ‘Lightyear’ and ‘Baymax’ Won’t Appear on Disney+ in Some Countries

Disney+ subscribers in some countries won’t be able to screen several of Pixar’s new releases.

Lightyear Ears in Magic Kingdom

Ahead of its release in theaters, it was reported that Pixar’s new movie, Lightyear, was unable to get permission to be shown in theaters in 14 countries in the Middle East and Asia. Now, it appears that Disney+ subscribers in the region will also be unable to stream the new movie, along with BAYMAX!, Pixar’s new series.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Disney+ Middle East appears set to appease the cultural sensitivities of the region when it comes to streaming content. They reported that Disney+ has opted not to add Lightyear and BAYMAX! to the streaming platform in countries across the Middle East.

©Pixar

Lightyear was previously banned from cinemas across the Gulf because it features a brief same-sex kiss between Buzz’s friend, Hawthorne, a female space ranger, and her female partner. Disney has now opted not to add the movie to the streaming service in the Middle East, although the regulations for streaming content are not as strict as those for theatrical releases.

Buzz Lightyear Topiary

The new Disney+ series BAYMAX!, which includes LGBTQ characters, will also not be added to the streaming service in the region.

Baymax

While content targeted towards a younger audience like Lightyear and BAYMAX! won’t appear on Disney+ in the Middle East, more adult-oriented titles that faced challenges to theatrical release in the region, like Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, will be available.

©Marvel || Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

A representative for Disney commented, “Content offerings differ across our many Disney+ markets, based upon a number of factors. Content available should align with local regulatory requirements.”