The Thanksgiving special has become a holiday staple for generations. However, one scene has stirred controversy. In recent years, viewers have pointed out how, Franklin, the only Black character, is treated during the big feast.
At dinner, Franklin, is seated by himself on the opposite side of the table, seemingly "segregated" from the other kids. For those viewers who feel uncomfortable with how the scene is depicted, it can feel anything but accidental. But the decision to sit Franklin by himself is said NOT to have been racially motivated.
Franklin in A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
Although, according to Darnell Hunt, dean of social sciences and professor of sociology and African American studies at UCLA, told Yahoo Life in November 2020: "Having [Franklin] on this long side by himself, you could interpret it that no one wanted to sit next to him."
Hunt's thoughts on Franklin's visual exclusion at Charlie Brown's Friendsgiving feast have been echoed by countless others on social media, who feel that the sole Black character in Peanuts' solitude during the celebration was animated intentionally and done so with malice.
Franklin slumped in his lawn chair
In the holiday special, Franklin arrives at Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving celebration along with Peppermint Patty and Marcie. The girls walk into the house, while Franklin gives Charlie a little dap on his way in. Charlie and Linus pull out dining chairs for Patty and Marcie at the table, leaving Franklin to sit by himself on the opposite side in a lawn/beach chair.
You can draw your own conclusion about Franklin's simultaneous inclusion and isolation at the seasonal gathering by watching A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.
Yet, with time all wounds heal. Franklin, fans and animators alike may finally get their much needed full circle/full closure moment.
Franklin in Welcome Home, Franklin
Thanks to Apple TV+ Franklin is set to make history again as he did when he first arrived on the scene in 1968. Franklin's first-ever animated special, Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin, will premiere on Friday February 16, 2024.
An origin story ALL ABOUT FRANKLIN.
The special will be produced by Peanuts and WildBrain while being directed by Emmy Award winner Raymond S. Persi (The Simpsons - “The Seemingly Never-Ending Story” - Season 17; Episode 13). Executive producers will be the legendary Schulz son and grandson Craig Schulz and Bryan Schulz along with others.
Let's keep our fingers crossed for at least an Annie Nomination in recognition.
In 1987, Jack Gordon was hired to co-manage La Toya Jackson by her father, Joseph. He later took over her management completely. Under Gordon's management, Jackson's public image became increasingly sexualized.
Around this time Jackson was disfellowshipped by the Jehovah's Witnesses. Defying her father, Jackson made a stormy exit from the family's Encino compound to take up residence in New York City.
In late 1988, Jackson released the album La Toya, which featured song title's like "Such a Wicked Love" and "(Ain't Nobody Loves You) Like I Do".
The album was the first one Jackson released after changing her management. This became an interesting period in her life. The album cover for La Toya features a close-up photograph of La Toya Jackson herself. She is depicted wearing a striking rhinestone studded black bikini top attached to suspenders. Her hair is styled with voluminous curls, framing her face. La Toya's makeup features bold, dramatic eyes and purple lips, adding to the overall glamorous and fierce look.
The album cover exudes a sense of confidence and power, reflecting La Toya's image as a pop artist during that era. The combination of the purple color scheme and the edgy hairstyle contributes to the album's aesthetics and helps establish La Toya's own unique style.
The album cover showcases a bold and glamorous statement, capturing the essence of the music and fashion trends of the late 1980s.
In March 1989, Jackson posed topless for Playboy magazine. Jackson saw the pictorial as a declaration of independence from her conservative upbringing. 1989's Playboy cover contributed to La Toya gaining attention and recognition as a sex symbol. The explicit nature of the photographs brought her widespread media coverage and the image of being a provocative and appealing figure. Jackson's first cover for the magazine was equivalent to Vanessa WilliamsPenthouse spread in 1983 or her sister Janet's 1993 Rolling Stones topless cover.
That same year, Jackson began recording her sixth album Bad Girl and staged a live pay-per-view concert, A Sizzling Spectacular!, from Bally's theatre in Reno.
The new album featured song title's like "Sexual Feeling", "Playboy (Be My)" and the title track.
She posed again in Playboy in November 1991 to promote her New York Times Best Seller autobiography, La Toya: Growing Up in the Jackson Family. That year also saw the release of her album No Relations. This album featured Jackson's top twenty-five Netherlands hit "Sexbox" and other titles "Be My Playboy" and "Submission".
In 1992, Jackson signed a contract with cabaret venue Moulin Rouge in Paris to star in her own revue, Formidable. Jackson was to perform two shows a night, six nights a week. Jackson was the highest-paid performer in the cabaret's history, earning a reported $5 million. Initially Formidable was successful, selling out on most nights, Jackson departed half-way into her year-long contract.
In 1994, Jackson again worked for Playboy Entertainment, becoming one of the first celebrities to have a Celebrity Centerfold video. Playboy Celebrity Centerfold: La Toya Jackson was released in the first quarter of 1994 and sold roughly 50,000 copies.
Also during the '90s, La Toya embarked on her Exotic Club Tour. The tour saw Jackson traveling to places such as Hawaii, North Carolina, Texas and Fort Lauderdale. All of these locations received a home video release on VHS from taped performances.
By the late '90s, Jack Gordon had forcibly married La Toya and gimmicked her out of a career by manipulating her into sexual escapades and making allegations against her own brother Michael as well as spearheading what seems to be the most successful period of her career, all at the same time.
Soon, when Jackson became aware that Gordon was planning to feature her in a pornographic film she decided she'd had enough. She made her escape from Gordon with the loving help of her brother Randy and divorced Gordon.
Additionally, La Toya's overall style, beauty, and charisma also played a role in contributing to her status as a sex symbol. Although, the Jackson family's "black sheep" has become a Grammy Award-Winning Songwriter as well.
Ultimately, she triumphs NOT as the sex Goddess that she came to be known as during her "sexual liberation" venture into the adult entertainment realm, but as a survivor of one of the most tumultuous and unpredictable times of her life secretly orchestrated by a man who had his own personal plans and agenda for her life and career. She lives to tell the story. Breathing to help and inspire young girls and women like herself who have found themselves in a similar situation.
In the entertainment business, cartoon characters are treated as real celebrities and public figures with full careers and accolades to match.
Kitty White, commonly known by the moniker "Hello Kitty", is an icon in the daily life of many Asian populations and around the world. As of Feb 7, 2022, Kitty is a billionaire.
According to figures published by Statista, she is the second most valuable media franchise in the world, worth 84.5 billion dollars, just behind Pokémon (105 billion) and far ahead of Mickey Mouse (80.3 billion).
Mimmy and Kitty
Sanrio, is the Japanese company that owns her brand and she was brought to prominence by Yuko Shimizu in 1974. Although, Kitty has a twin sister named Mimmy (yellow bow), it is no doubt that Kitty is the undisputed star of the show. Sanrio currently has over 450 characters, from Cinnamoroll to My Melody, Keroppi to Gudetama, alongside their superstar, Hello Kitty.
The anthropomorphic female cat who is of British nationality, lived and grew up in a London suburb with her family, according to her given backstory.
"Hello Kitty" debuted in 1974
However, you can bet with earning power of a billion dollars, she is living far better than your average suburban native in an alternate universe.
Shimizu got the name Kitty from Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking-Glass; during a scene early in the book, Alice plays with a cat she calls Kitty.
UNICEF named Hello Kitty as children's ambassador to the United States in 1983.
Kitty donates $150,000 dollars to USA's UNICEF
Kitty as Special Friend of Children
By 1987, she got her own television show called, Hello Kitty's Furry Tale Theater. Co-produced by DIC Enterprises and MGM/UA Television Productions, the series involves Hello Kitty and her family and friends re-telling popular fairy tales and stories. The show lasted for one season airing thirteen episode's.
1989 saw the release of the film Hello Kitty: Cinderella released in only in Japan (but was released in English and America later). That same year, she got another shot at series fame with, Hello Kitty and Friends. Her films, Hello Kitty no Oyayubi Hime and Hello Kitty no Mahō no Mori no Ohime-sama followed in 1990 and 1991 respectively.
Japanese titles of Kitty's films from 1989 to 1991
The brands first two video games were released in 1992. In 1994 she was named children's ambassador of UNICEF in Japan. That same year, the Hello Kitty and Friends show came to an end.
Kitty introduced her boyfriend, Daniel Starr often called "Dear Daniel", in 1999. Hello Kitty's Paradise came out in 1999 and was 16 episodes long.
Kitty as Cinderella in Hello Kitty: Cinderella
Hello Kitty's popularity in Japan peaked in the late 1990s when she was the country's top-grossing character. The brand went into decline in Japan, but survived due to growth in international markets. In 2002, Hello Kitty lost her place as the top-grossing character in Japan in the Character Databank popularity chart.
A "Hello Kitty" shop in Madrid
In terms of profitability, Hello Kitty's brand has flourished due to effective licensing, strategic collaborations, and the ability to expand into various markets worldwide. The brand's presence extends beyond merchandise, including media adaptations such as animated TV shows and films.
She was given the title of UNICEF Special Friend of Children in 2004, a title unique to her.
"Hello Kitty" jet
In 2008, Japan named Hello Kitty the ambassador of Japanese tourism in both China and Hong Kong, marking the first time Japan's tourism ministry had appointed a fictional character to the role.
Over the years, Hello Kitty has reached global popularity. Hello Kitty has achieved worldwide recognition and popularity, appealing to people of various ages and cultures. Her unique appearance, has made her instantly recognizable and widely adored by fans across many generations.
"Hello Kitty" coffee ☕️
Regarding competition, Hello Kitty's major rival in the cute character market is generally considered to be Disney's iconic character lineup, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their associated brands. While both Hello Kitty and Disney characters target similar demographics and employ merchandising strategies, Hello Kitty has managed to carve out her unique space with a distinctive design and cultural impact.
Hello Kitty is also a partner of the United Nations. Kitty and the UN collaborate together with such projects as the #HelloGlobalGoals campaign.
#HelloGlobalGoals campaign launch
Yet, no one can compete with Kitty in her own lane. She is a "kawaii" legend.
Hello Kitty embodies the essence of the "kawaii" (cute) culture that has had a significant influence on Japanese popular culture. The character's innocent and lovable nature aligns with the kawaii aesthetic, which has gained global prominence and served as a core element of Hello Kitty's appeal.
In 2024, the Hello Kitty brand will be celebrating it's 50th Anniversary. Kitty White is a solidified and wealthy superstar. 2024 is her year and the world will watch on as she celebrates triumph!
To prove that 2024 is her year indeed, Kitty was made a the grand marshal of the 2024 Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco.
For National Ice Cream Day 🍦🎀 Starting June 21, in collaboration with Van Leeuwen, Hello Kitty created "Yummy Berry White Chocolate Truffle" ice cream flavor made available in scoop shops nationwide. Pints were also made available at most scoop shops. 50% of profits of were vowed to go to kindness.org.
In the entertainment business, cartoon characters are treated as real celebrities and public figures with full careers and accolades to match.
Morgana is the younger sister of the iconic Disney Villain, Ursula (the only female antagonist during The Disney Renaissance period from 1989 to 1999). She first appeared as the main antagonist in the 2000 direct-to-video sequel to 1989's Disney classic, The Little Mermaid.
Due to her death in the original film, Ursula does not appear in the sequel. Morgana takes her place as the villain in the continued storyline in the second film, Return to the Sea.
Ursula is mentioned many times in the sequel, mostly by Morgana. Her image does appear in a photograph that Morgana has of Ursula. All throughout the film Morgana describes how Ursula was the favorite of their mother. As revealed in the special edition of the film, when Morgana was young, she was shown to have often been criticized by her mother for not being as talented as her older sister, Ursula, whom her mother preferred.
In real life it also seems that, everyone involved with the making of both the films heavily and unfairly favored Ursula as well. When it came to Morgana, she received an considerable lack of respect as well. She was written into the sequel's plot as a failed sorceress as a vast contrast to Ursula's perfection of magic potions and witchcraft. Even having to use the left over remnants of Ursula's magic in the form of a potion.
Also, she had a song called, "Gonna Get My Wish", which was cut from the final film edit. However, Ursula's song "Poor Unfortunate Souls" has been certified gold by the RIAA since its release and covered by the Jonas Brothers. That song being featured on a soundtrack that has been certified multi-Platinum worldwide.
Morgana is not officially affiliated with the Disney Villains franchise like her sister. Although, she would somewhat be considered maybe a "minor villain" of sorts, she has appeared on the official Instagram account for Disney Villains. Once on August 5, 2018 for National Sisters Day. Another post featuring Morgana was posted April 10, 2019 for National Siblings Day.
Although Morgana is similar to villain like her sister and Maleficent, she really holds no significant place in the hearts and minds of any who knows of her.
In terms of Disney characters, Morgana may not have reached the same level of success or popularity as her sister Ursula due to a variety of reasons. Here are a few factors that could have played a role:
1. Character Development: Ursula was introduced as the iconic villain in the classic Disney movieThe Little Mermaid, while Morgana appeared as the antagonist in its direct-to-video sequel, The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea. The first movie had a much larger impact and established Ursula as a memorable character, giving her a head start in terms of popularity and recognition.
2. Storyline and Screen Time: Ursula had a more substantial role in her movie, with a compelling storyline and memorable scenes that left a lasting impression on audiences. On the other hand, Morgana's character may not have received the same level of development, leaving her with less screen time and limited opportunities to resonate with viewers.
3. Marketing and Merchandising: Ursula's popularity has been sustained through her inclusion in various Disney merchandise, theme park attractions, and subsequent adaptations. Morgana, being a secondary character in a direct-to-video sequel, may not have received the same level of promotion and exposure, which could have affected her chances of achieving widespread recognition.
It's important to note that success and popularity can vary based on audience reception, franchise decisions, and various other factors. While Morgana may not have reached the same level of fame as Ursula, it doesn't diminish her character's potential or appeal.
In fact she has made a bit of difference in her own right. She is the first Disney villain in a Disney film or project to be the sibling of another Disney villain. The second one may have been Nasira as she was revealed to have been the twin sister of Jafar in the Aladdin video game Nasira's Revenge.
Morgana also marked the last animated role of Pat Carroll (not counting reprisals of Ursula whom she also voiced), before her death on July 31, 2022.
In conclusion, Morgana was catapulted directly into the shadow of her older sister. Not to mention, in a lesser and more negative light to say the least. Disney never attempted to use her in any other way than to play a small part in helping build upon an already well established franchise. This article is not to compare Ursula with Morgana despite their relation and similarity. However, simply put, Morgana deserved better!
It's November 2023 but it was August 11, 2023 that marked the 50th anniversary of the culture shifting hip-hop genre. Hip hop emerged as a cultural movement in African American and Latino communities in the 1970s and 1980s, providing a platform for marginalized groups to express their experiences, struggles, and aspirations.
"Hip-Hop Saved My Life" was the title of a 2008 single by rapper Lupe Fiasco. Unfortunately, that phrase does not deal well with the reality many have been forced to face as a result of Hip-Hop being in existence. Nothing personal against anyone who has benefited from the genre it just that Hip-Hop DID NOT SAVE EVERYONE'S LIFE. As a matter of a fact, many lives have been lost because of it. Including many of the lives of many people who have chosen rap music as their profession or a way of life.
In the '90s, notable figures such as C. Delores Tucker, Bill Clinton and Dionne Warwick were on the frontlines of the war against hip hop subgenre, gangsta rap. However, the genre prevailed past the backclash and continued to have major impact on not only the youth of the past and present but as well the older generations as well.
Hip hop music and its culture have undoubtedly gained immense popularity over the years. While it has served as a vehicle for artistic expression, social commentary, and empowerment, it is important to acknowledge the negative aspects that have evolved within hip hop's influence. This essay will explore the adverse consequences of hip hop's impact on masculinity, the perpetuation of homophobia, and the distorted public perception of masculinity and hip hop culture.
Masculinity in Hip Hop
Hip hop has often portrayed masculinity through hyper-sexualized, aggressive, and violent imagery. This portrayal reinforces harmful stereotypes surrounding masculinity, fostering a culture where toughness and aggression are over-emphasized. This obsession with hypermasculinity can fuel toxic expectations for young males who may feel pressured to conform to a narrow definition of what it means to be a man within hip hop culture. This focus on aggression can contribute to an increase in violence and gang-related activities. Hip hop's influence on shaping masculinity is a complex phenomenon with various factors at play. However, it was significant enough to become a prominent influence on masculinity. As a parent, male or female, relying on Hip Hop music and rap videos to mold your child's (boy or girl) views and values on manhood and masculinity is irresponsible and dangerous. No one should be parenting accept parents.
Young boys especially need to discover their own self worth apart from the influence of hip hop and entertainment. Theu also need to know they don't need the influence of rap music to become a masculine heterosexual male adult. They need to know they have other outlets for masculine inspiration besides the genre as well.
Unhealthy Obsession with Hip Hop
People's unhealthy obsession with hip hop and rap music can be characterized by their excessive and often obsessive consumption of this genre. This obsession often leads to neglecting other important aspects of their lives and can result in detrimental consequences.
People may excessively idolize hip hop and rap artists, treating them as role models and imitating their lifestyle and behavior. This can lead to individuals adopting harmful habits or attitudes, such as glorifying violence, materialism, and substance abuse. The unhealthy obsession with hip hop and rap culture may overshadow the importance of personal growth and finding positive role models, leading to a detrimental impact on emotional well-being and social behavior.
Additionally, an excessive obsession with hip hop and rap music may contribute to a narrow viewpoint or understanding of society and culture. People may fixate solely on the recreational aspects of the genre, disregarding its historical, political, and social significance. This limited perspective may prevent individuals from engaging in critical thinking and understanding the broader context in which this music exists.
An unhealthy obsession with hip hop and rap music can lead to an imbalance in life priorities, limiting personal growth, and promoting harmful behaviors and attitudes. It is important for individuals to diversify their musical taste and engage in a balanced lifestyle that encompasses various aspects of culture, art, and personal development.
Hypermasculinity in Hip Hop
Some elements within hip hop culture portray hypermasculine ideals, emphasizing dominance, aggression, material wealth, and objectification of women. Women who oddly gravitate towards men who have this oppressive nature and turns them into victims.
These portrayals have influenced some men to associate these behaviors and attitudes with masculinity. However, it is crucial to recognize that hip hop, like any cultural movement, features a range of diverse expressions and does not represent a monolithic view of masculinity.
Homophobia in Hip Hop
Another consequence of hip hop's influence is the persistent homophobia present in its lyrics and attitudes. From homophobic slurs to derogatory remarks, hip hop artists have all too often targeted the LGBTQ+ community. This perpetuation of homophobia not only marginalizes and stigmatizes members of the LGBTQ+ community but also creates a hostile environment where self-expression and acceptance are discouraged. It also harms men or women who may not identify as LGBTQ+ or who may not even be homosexual at all. Anyone can be labeled gay for any nonsensical reason and no one would dispute it or protect them from being disowned and outcast because of it. It's complete ignorance and insanity. It is essential to address and challenge these homophobic lyrics and attitudes within the genre, promoting inclusivity and respect for all individuals.
Public Acceptance and Perception of Hip Hop
The influence of hip hop extends well beyond the confines of the music itself. It affects cultural perceptions and public acceptance of both the genre and masculinity. Hip hop culture, particularly portrayed in mainstream media, can often be overshadowed by stereotypes that emphasize negative aspects such as crime, violence, and materialism. As a result, society's perception of both hip hop culture and masculinity becomes skewed. The media's focus on these negative stereotypes dismisses the true diversity and depth present in both the genre and the individuals who participate in it. It is crucial to acknowledge the multifaceted nature of hip hop and masculinity rather than perpetuating these damaging misconceptions.
Conclusion
It is essential to note that while hip hop has had a significant influence on shaping masculinity, it is not the sole determinant of what masculinity is. Masculinity is a complex and multifaceted concept influenced by various historical, cultural, and societal factors. While hip hop has undoubtedly made significant positive contributions to music and culture, it is essential to address and challenge the adverse effects it can have on masculinity, perpetuation of homophobia, and public perception. By encouraging and promoting a more inclusive and tolerant hip hop culture, we can begin to dismantle the harmful stereotypes, expectations and brainwashing that has evolved over time. It is through a collective effort that we can redefine masculinity, break barriers, and foster a more understanding and accepting society for a better outcome and brighter future for us all.
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