Josh Gad Speaks Up About Gay Character On Beauty And The Beast

The most anticipated movie of 2017, Beauty and the Beast, is setting a milestone for Disney. The original 1991 hit movie is featuring Disney’s first openly gay character. Josh Gad is portraying the character of LeFou, who is the gay sidekick of the antagonist Gaston. The movie director, Bill Condon, says this move is in pursuit to show support to the LGBTQ community. The move brings delight to the casts especially to Josh Gad but also draws speculations from critics who do not support such act.

Beauty and the Beast Gay Character: A Disney History

Having Emma Watson and Dan Stevens in the movie is something to look forward to. Josh Gad’s portrayal of this time a gay LeFou is one thing more. This is the very first time Disney will introduce a gay character. No doubt various reactions are spread all over during after the official trailer has been released. “LeFou is somebody who on one day wants to be Gaston and on another day wants to kiss Gaston,” director Bill Condon said in an interview with Attitude magazine.

Having an openly gay character is one leap for Disney. Of course, there are reasons why the producers and director made this possible. The move serves as an eye-opener to people who condemn the LGBTQ community. “By representing same-sex attraction in this short but explicitly gay scene, the studio is sending out a message that this is normal and natural – and this is a message that will be heard in every country of the world, even countries where it’s still socially unacceptable or even illegal to be gay,” added Condon.

Alabama Theater Cancels Screenings, Actor Josh Gad Speaks Up

While Disney and the LGBTQ community take pride in the inclusion of a gay character in the film, Alabama Theater expressed its disappointment. Moviegoers in Alabama won’t be able to view the retelling of the film. The Henager Drive-In Theater canceled the screening of the film due to its gay character according to a report by Variety. The company acknowledged that their actions were controversial, therefore releasing a statement regarding the matter. They claim that they are first and foremost Christians so they cannot afford to compromise on what the Bible teaches. This is the reason why they condone homosexuality, according to them.

Josh Gad, who plays as LeFou, spoke about the controversy. The actor tweeted that he is beyond proud to portray the gay moment. In an interview with People, the actor said that the film is “subtle but incredibly effective.” He noted that the “film is one of inclusiveness” and added that the central theme f the film is “never to judge a book by its cover.”