Elon MuskS Post Sparks Netflix Boycott Over Content Targeting Transgender Representation
San Francisco, CA – A post by Elon Musk on his social media platform X, formerly twitter, has ignited a wave of cancellations targeting Netflix, as users express outrage over content the platform hosts. The controversy centers on Dead End: The Terror Park, an animated series featuring a transgender character and lauded for its diverse representation.
The initial spark came from a user named Matt Van Sawl, who publicly announced his Netflix cancellation, stating, “If you use someone who celebrated the murder of Charlie kirk and creates content that promotes pro-trans content among my children… you will never receive a penny of my money.” He reportedly cited “Hamish Steele celebrates the death of Charlie Kirk” as his reason for canceling, referencing the creator of Dead End: The Terror Park.
Hamish Steele is a content creator whose series has received awards for its representation of the LGBTQ+ community. Musk then amplified Van Sawl’s post and later shared several other posts critical of the series, accusing it of promoting “transgender ideologies” to children. The animation is rated for audiences age seven and older.
Musk’s post, which has garnered nearly 16 million views, over 10,000 responses, 214,000 ‘likes,’ and approximately 37,000 rebukes, has fueled a broader backlash. Hundreds of X users have joined the boycott, sharing screenshots confirming their Netflix account cancellations.
The move aligns wiht Musk’s previously expressed criticisms of “woke culture” and his concerns about what he describes as a “gender agenda” being imposed on minors. He has repeatedly stated his belief that such topics should not be presented to children.
Notably, Musk’s stance is complicated by his personal life. His eldest daughter, Vivian Jenna Wilson, publicly came out as a transgender woman in 2020 and has reportedly distanced herself from her father.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding representation of LGBTQ+ identities in media and the increasing politicization of content aimed at young audiences.