5 Kid-Friendly Animated Projects With Queer Representation
Rare but amazing shows.
The year 2023 has given us quite a number of compelling queer couples. Just think of the fan-favorite gay pirates Stede Bonnet and Ed Teach from Our Flag Means Death, the irresistible demon-angel duo Aziraphale and Crowley from Good Omens, or the heartbreaking yet wholesome story of Bill and Frank from The Last of Us.
None of these shows, however, are particularly suitable for young audiences. While kids are exposed to plenty of gentle hetero romances in G- and PG-rated media, projects that present LGBTQ+ relationships in the same casual way are still criminally rare. But they're not entirely unheard of.
Here are five kid-appropriate animated shows with some great queer representation.
The Owl House (2020-2023)
Rated: 7+
Where to stream: Disney+, Prime Video
The animated fantasy series about a 14-year-old human girl who travels to the demon realm and finds a family there while pursuing her dream of becoming a witch has great queer representation, including a nice F/F couple as the main pairing, M/M parents, and a few they/them characters.
It also tells a wonderful story about acceptance and being true to yourself. However, the show hits some seriously sad notes at times, so parental guidance is recommended.
The Dragon Prince (2018-present)
Rated: 7+
Where to stream: Netflix
The story is set in a world where magic exists and humans have turned to practicing its darker aspects. An elf assassin comes to kill two human princes, but instead befriends them, and the trio embarks on a mission to end the conflict between humans and elves.
The fan-adored animated series makes a conscious effort to represent many diverse groups, including some same-sex relationships.
She-Ra and the Princesses of Power (2018-2020)
Rated: 7+
Where to stream: Netflix
Set on the planet Etheria, the show follows the story of an orphan girl who one day finds a magical sword that transforms her into a powerful warrior capable of leading a rebellion and ridding her country of evil invaders.
Several of the show's characters are established as queer on screen and hinted at being LGBTQ+ behind the scenes.
Steven Universe (2013-2019)
Rated: TV-PG
Where to stream: Prime Video, Hulu, Max
Centered around a colorful team of alien warriors who protect humanity from all threats, the show has some of the best same-sex couples in animation, going so far as to feature an onscreen marriage proposal and an uncensored lip-to-lip kiss.
In addition to LGBTQ+ visibility, the show is good at tackling big themes like learning to truly love yourself, accepting change, and being vulnerable in a kid-friendly, digestible way.
Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts (2020)
Rated: 7+
Where to stream: Netflix
The show is set in a post-apocalyptic world where animals have mutated into anthropomorphic creatures that have forced humans underground. The protagonist is a thirteen-year-old girl who explores the world with her friends.
In Season 1, the protagonist's best friend comes out as gay in the healthiest way possible and later develops a crush on another male character. In addition, one of the supporting characters is non-binary.