Teletubbies Dance for LGBTQ+ Rights at Cannes Lions Festival

The 2026 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity witnessed the Teletubbies showing off their dance moves for LGBTQ+ rights during the Beach Pride party organized by Canva. It seems the colorful quartet left the event quite a hit, surrounded by fans.

This Pride party, held by the graphic design platform Canva, marked a celebration of LGBTQ+ rights, wrapping up a week filled with panels featuring notable figures like Oprah Winfrey, Colin Jost, and Carmelo Anthony. Video footage circulated on social media captured the Teletubbies, made famous in the 1990s by the BBC, dancing at the lively event in the south of France.

Jimmy Knowles, Canva’s Global Head of Experience, shared his thoughts: “At a time when so many companies seem to be moving away from DE&I, it means we are at a company where the world is leaning towards DE&I, in such a proud and unapologetic way.” This sentiment emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in today’s business landscape.

The “Creative Cabana Pride on the Croisette” beach party kicked off with a vibrant display of European drag queens dancing to popular hits by Katy Perry and Rihanna. Guests enjoyed ice cream and frozen Smirnoff drinks, alongside face painting that added to the festive atmosphere. One attendee reminisced, saying, “I haven’t had anything like this since high school,” while enjoying their drink.

As the night progressed, the Teletubbies took the stage, showing their support for the LGBTQ+ advocacy movement. Tinky Winky, the Purple Teletubby, had previously been a subject of controversy in 1999 when some suggested he was gay due to his appearance. On this occasion, though, the focus was on fun as the characters made their way offstage, dancing to Britney Spears’ classic “Toxic,” eliciting cheers from the crowd.

Celebrating their upcoming 30th anniversary, the Teletubbies’ presence at Cannes was facilitated by children’s advertising company WildBrain Media Solutions. Emma Witkowski, vice president at WildBrain, noted, “The DNA of Teletubbies is joy and inclusivity,” as attendees danced with rainbow-colored fans and she shone with glitter on her cheeks. “This was a perfect collaboration,” she added.

The Teletubbies seemed to attract quite the following as they took selfies with their admirers, embodying the spirit of joy and inclusivity that the event represented.