
BURBANK — In a promotional interview for the Walt Disney Company’s newest animated feature, Encanto, CEO Bob Chapek revealed that the film would include the studio’s first openly gay character, the 25th such announcement in the past six years. “We here at Disney strive to break new ground when it comes to LGBTQ representation, so long as it’s actually just the same ground over and over again,” said Chapek while handing out rainbow-colored Mickey Mouse ears for only $39.99 a pop. “Gay fans have always held a special place at Disney, from concession stands, to box offices, to gift shops. It’s a market — er, community — that we couldn’t do without.” Mr. Chapek had to exit the interview early to attend the premiere of “Beauty & the Beast 2: LeFou’s Actually Gay This Time, We Promise.”