Released in 1999, Toy Story 2 remains a milestone in animation, captivating audiences with its innovative storytelling and beloved characters.
Among its highlights were the creative blooper reels shown during the credits, which humorously portrayed the toys as actors making mistakes on set.
These outtakes were a unique addition, blending meta-humor with the charm of the Toy Story universe. They offered an amusing glimpse into the “behind-the-scenes” antics of Woody, Buzz, and their companions.
However, as societal norms have evolved, one particular outtake involving the character Stinky Pete, the prospector doll, has become a point of contention.
The scene, originally included in the 1999 release, showed Stinky Pete engaging in a suggestive conversation with two Barbie dolls inside his box.
In the blooper, Stinky Pete remarks, “So, you two are absolutely identical?” before adding, “I’m sure I could get you a part in Toy Story 3.”
The implication of exchanging roles for personal favors was a nod to notorious “casting couch” practices in Hollywood, delivered in a comedic tone.
Upon realizing he is being watched, Stinky Pete hastily changes his demeanor, stumbling through his words and awkwardly dismissing the Barbies.
This outtake was originally intended as satire, poking fun at unethical behavior within the entertainment industry.
Yet, in the wake of the #MeToo movement, the scene has been viewed through a more critical lens, raising questions about its appropriateness in a family film.
The #MeToo movement, which gained momentum in the late 2010s, shed light on widespread harassment and abuse, particularly in Hollywood.
High-profile cases, including those involving figures like Harvey Weinstein, prompted widespread reevaluation of past behaviors and content.
Against this backdrop, Disney and Pixar quietly removed the controversial scene from newer releases of Toy Story 2.
This change was first noticed in 2019 with the film’s 4K Blu-ray re-release, where the blooper no longer appeared in the credits.
The omission was later applied to digital versions and streaming platforms like Disney+, ensuring the scene was scrubbed from all updated formats.
The removal sparked mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike, reflecting broader cultural debates about revising historical content.
Some viewers supported Pixar’s decision, describing the scene as “creepy” and “out of place” in a family-friendly franchise.
Others argued that the joke should have remained, viewing it as a satirical commentary on real-world issues that could prompt meaningful discussions.
It’s worth noting that the Toy Story franchise itself has faced scrutiny beyond this specific outtake.
John Lasseter, co-founder of Pixar and director of the first two Toy Story films, left the company in 2017 following allegations of misconduct.
The context surrounding Lasseter’s departure may have influenced Pixar’s decision to remove the Stinky Pete scene, given its implications.
The removal of controversial content from films is not unprecedented, as studios frequently adapt to shifting cultural norms.
From removing outdated stereotypes to editing insensitive jokes, the entertainment industry continues to grapple with balancing history and progress.
For Toy Story 2, the removal of the Stinky Pete blooper reflects the industry’s efforts to align with contemporary values while preserving the film’s legacy.
As the beloved Toy Story series continues to inspire new generations, the omission of this scene underscores the importance of responsible storytelling.
Ultimately, the decision serves as a reminder of the evolving responsibilities of creators in producing content that resonates ethically with all audiences.
By quietly erasing the scene, Pixar acknowledges the importance of growth and the need to create a respectful, inclusive cinematic legacy.
Featured Image Credit: Disney
