Disney has played a significant role in shaping our childhood experiences. In many ways, it feels like we grew up alongside Disney. Looking back, it’s clear that many Disney characters, for the most part, followed societal beauty standards. For example, Disney’s female characters are often portrayed as petite, while the male characters are typically tall, strong, and muscular.
But Disney has had its moments where they’ve portrayed unconventional beauties that help make kids (and adults!) feel seen. Whether we notice it or not, these portrayals impact our views of self-image.
Growing up, I rarely saw much representation on TV, whether in terms of race or body size. The Disney characters I connected with were the ones where I could see a reflection of myself. Even as a young girl, I was always searching for role models, often without realizing it. The characters listed below are the ones I naturally gravitated toward, favoring their shows or movies without a second thought. Here are six Disney characters who highlight body positivity.
A few of Disney’s Body Positive Heroes
Goofy (1995)
Body dysmorphia is a real issue among men. According to the International OCD Foundation, 60% of women and 40% of men struggle with body dysmorphia. Men are also more likely to seek cosmetic surgery and dermatological treatments. A character like Goofy doesn’t fit societal beauty standards, but despite that, he remains a loving and supportive father who stays true to his authentic self.
Goofy is silly, fun, and kind, though he is also tall, a bit clumsy, and perhaps not considered traditionally handsome. I’ve always appreciated Goofy, partly because he never worried about what others thought. Growing up, I struggled with embracing my authentic self and accepting who I was, inside and out. Goofy exemplifies what it means to be yourself and stay true to who you are.
Despite these traits, Goofy remains dedicated to his son and true to who he is, regardless of what others might say about his appearance or personality.
Mulan (1998)
Mulan was far from a typical girl. Growing up in ancient Chinese culture, she was expected to be submissive and make her family “proud” by getting married. Meanwhile, the men of China were called to fight in the war. With her father being elderly, Mulan secretly took his place, disguising herself as a man to join the war.
Mulan was one of my favorite movies growing up because I admired her confidence and how she went against traditional expectations of a Chinese girl. I also appreciated that Mulan wasn’t portrayed as a small, passive woman or the typical beauty. She broke the rules to fight for her family and country, which made her even more admirable to me.
In the end, Mulan demonstrates her strength and beauty as a woman, proving that girls can achieve anything they set their minds to, regardless of their appearance or societal expectations.
Oscar Proud (2001)
Oscar Proud is one of the few examples of a husband in Disney shows. Like Goofy, he has a huge personality, a passion for Proud Snacks, and loves his family in his own unique way. Although he wasn’t conventionally handsome, Oscar is an excellent representation of body positivity. Because he was tall and lanky, he had a beautiful and successful wife and healthy kids.
Oscar also stood out with his hilarious personality. Oscar felt familiar to me growing up, like a character you’d find in most Black families. Despite his appearance and the challenges with his failing Proud Snacks business, Oscar always stood his ground and loved his family his family to the best of his ability.
Nani (2002)
Nani from “Lilo & Stitch” is one of the rare examples of body positivity, showcasing a “regular” woman on screen. She confidently rocks midriff tops and shorts while stepping up as Lilo’s guardian, transforming from a sister to a caregiver. Nani shows us that it’s OK to be exactly who you are and navigate life on your own terms.
Nani reminded me of my older sister. As the youngest, I admired my sister for being a shero and embodying authentic beauty. She beat the odds and always made sure to take care of our family.
Raven (2003)
Although Raven isn’t a cartoon character, she is still a Disney icon! Raven exemplified confidence in her own skin. As a fashion designer, she always dressed to impress. Raven spoke up for herself and her community, never allowing her uniqueness to dim her light.
Raven was the “it” girl of the early 2000s. I remember seeing her on screen and instantly identifying with her—she was curvy, wore clothes that fit her body perfectly, and looked fabulous doing it. Even though her visions were a secret she kept from most people, I admired Raven for never dimming her light or compromising who she was just to fit in.
Bianca on Reflect (2022)
Bianca is technically Disney’s first plus size character. In the short film Reflect, Bianca is a ballerina who confronts the girl in the mirror, battling body dysmorphia. Seeing Bianca in her leotard, without a corset or anything covering her body, is a powerful display of body positivity. Throughout the film, Bianca must dig deep within herself to persevere through her dance routine and recognize her true worth.
We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about these body-positive Disney characters. Representation matters from childhood through adulthood, as seeing yourself reflected on screen is essential for building self-confidence.
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