Disney Channel series Andi Mack to feature network's first ever gay character
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A key character from popular Disney Channel series Andi Mack will come out as gay in a future storyline marking a first for the network.
The 13-year-old character Cyrus Goodman - played by Joshua Rush - will make the announcement in season two premiere that will be broadcast this Friday (27 October).
The series, which stars Peyton Elizabeth Lee as the titular character, began earlier this year following Andi through her realisation that the girl she thought was her older sister is, in fact, her mother. The new season will see Cyrus develop feelings for Andi's crush, something he'll confide to a friend.
Later episodes will follow Cyrus' journey of self-discovery as he works out how to tell his girlfriend.
Disney Channel said in a statement: “Andi Mack is a story about ‘tweens’ figuring out who they are. (Creator) Terri Minsky, the cast and everyone involved in the show takes great care in ensuring that it’s appropriate for all audiences and sends a powerful message about inclusion and respect for humanity.
“Disney remains committed to continuing to create characters that are accessible and relatable to all children,“ Walt Disney Co. added.
According to Yahoo, the series is 2017's biggest series among girls (with a median age of 10) and is the most popular series across all Disney Channel platforms including its video on demand service and its UK channel.
Disney Channel and producer Minsky (Lizzie McGuire) spoke with child development experts ahead of the storyline.The episode was screened to several organisations - including GLAAD and PFLAG - ahead of its premiere, with the former's President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis saying: “With more and more young people coming out as LGBTQ, Andi Mack is reflecting the lives and lived experiences of so many LGBTQ youth around the country.
“Disney has been a leader in LGBTQ inclusion and there are so many young people who will be excited to see Cyrus’ story unfold.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments