Elon Musk this week called on his followers to cancel their Netflix subscriptions amid a controversy surrounding an animated show and its creator.
The Tesla and X (formerly Twitter) CEO posted, “Cancel Netflix for the health of your kids,” responding to an image accusing the streaming platform of promoting a “transgender woke agenda.”
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The backlash appears to center on Netflix’s animated series “Dead End: Paranormal Park,” which features a transgender character. The show, created by Hamish Steele, was canceled in 2023 after two seasons. Musk also engaged with posts criticizing Steele for allegedly “mocking” the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk — claims that circulated widely among right-wing social media accounts.
Netflix is doubling down on pushing woke and trans ideology at children.
Parents should think twice before letting their kids watch.
Even Elon Musk has had enough and canceled his Netflix subscription today.
Time to cancel Netflix. pic.twitter.com/XjCofo8Iav
— Digital Gal 🌸 (@DigitalGal_X) September 30, 2025
Responding to Musk’s comments on the social platform Bluesky, Steele wrote, “It’s probably going to be a very odd day,” and shared praise from TV writer Jack Bernhardt, who called “Dead End” a “brilliant show about kind, wonderful characters.”
Analysts Downplay Market Impact Despite Conservative Backlash
Conservative commentator Robby Starbuck also joined the anti-Netflix campaign, accusing the company of promoting an ideology “hateful to White Americans.” Starbuck, who has repeatedly targeted major corporations over diversity and inclusion initiatives, urged his followers not to “give this woke company another dime.”
Cancel Netflix for the health of your kids https://t.co/uPcGiURaCp
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 1, 2025
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Despite the uproar, analysts say the backlash is unlikely to significantly affect Netflix’s business. The streaming giant reported 301.63 million subscribers as of late 2024, before shifting its focus from user growth to revenue metrics. With a $490 billion market cap and shares up over 60% in the past year, experts believe Netflix’s financial footing remains strong.
While the company’s stock dipped nearly 5% over the week, CNBC contributor Guy Adami noted, “You’re going to see people sign up on the back of that to counter it… I don’t think this is a reason to sell the stock.”
Story by CNBC with additional input by GVS US desk