Walt Disney World Removes 'Insensitive and Outdated' Character From Attraction
The character has appeared in the popular attraction since 1971.
Country Bear Jamboree reopened at Walt Disney World on Wednesday, July 17 after being closed for a seven-month hiatus. But one character has quietly been retired from the revamped attraction—now called Country Bear Musical Jamboree—which will feature new genres of country music such as Bluegrass, pop-country, Americana, and rockabilly.
Liver Lips McGrowl, one of 18 audio-animatronics bears who has appeared in the popular attraction since 1971, known for performing the song "My Woman Ain't Pretty (But She Don't Swear None)," will not be returning as part of ongoing inclusivity efforts by Disney Parks.
According to the Disney blog Inside the Magic, the decision to remove the character stems from its name, which is deemed "insensitive and outdated," as well as having derogatory racial connotations against the Black and Jewish communities.
"The term 'liver lips' is considered derogatory and offensive, as it is associated with excessive alcohol consumption and the resulting liver damage," the website states. "The phrase is deemed to be insensitive and outdated, prompting Disney’s decision to modify the character."
The article adds: "The removal of Liver Lips McGrowl is part of a broader trend within Disney Parks to address and rectify outdated or offensive elements within its attractions."
In the revamped exhibit, Liver Lips McGrowl will be replaced by a new animatronic bear with the same surname, Romeo McGrowl, who bears a facial resemblance to Liver Lips but sports a blonde coif. Romeo will join the cast of returning characters including "host" Henry the Bear, Big Al,, Ernest the "Dude," Terrence "Shaker," Wendell and Teddi Barra, and Trixie with Bunny, Bubbles, and Beulah.
BREAKING: Country Bear Musical Jamboree officially opens July 17 at Magic Kingdom Park.#ThisIsMagic #WaltDisneyWorld pic.twitter.com/Sn8e0LODws
— Drew Smith (@DrewDisneyDude) June 10, 2024
This isn't the first time Disney has retired characters at some of its longtime attractions due to diversity initiatives. The reimagining of Splash Mountain and the Jungle Cruise have undergone similar modifications in recent years to remove portrayals of indigenous peoples and animals that were considered stereotypical and offensive.
The newly opened Country Bear Musical Jamboree will also feature songs from popular Disney films such as "Bare Necessities" from The Jungle Book, "Kiss the Girl" from The Little Mermaid, "A Whole New World" from Aladdin, and "You’ve Got A Friend In Me" from Toy Story.