Netflix Faces Subscriber Backlash After Musk’s Boycott Call

Netflix is experiencing a wave of cancellations as many subscribers respond to Elon Musk’s recent call for a boycott of the streaming platform. Musk specifically pointed to a children’s show that he believes promotes transgender themes to young viewers.

On Tuesday, Musk reacted to numerous X posts revealing that they were canceling their Netflix subscriptions due to a show called “Dead End: Paranormal Park,” which features a character named Bernie Gutman, who is a transgender boy. The show seemingly incorporates Bernie’s gender identity into significant plot points and family dynamics.

Originally launched in June 2022, the second season of “Dead End” was released in October of the same year. However, on January 13, 2023, the show’s creators confirmed that there would not be a third season. Even though it was labeled as “cancelled,” the existing seasons remain available on Netflix.

As of now, “Dead End: Paranormal Park” can still be streamed in the United States.

The critique surrounding the show has been amplified by the popular X account “Libs of TikTok.” A recent post from the account featured a clip of the series, warning parents that the show, marketed towards children aged seven, contains pro-transgender messages.

The clip reveals that 17-year-old Bernie comes out as transgender, while another character, Norma, is depicted as bisexual and autistic.

Supporters of the show argue that presenting LGBTQ characters in positive, relatable ways can foster understanding among children towards those who are different from them.

Meanwhile, the X account also highlighted the show’s creator, Hamish Steele, and pointed out past controversial comments he made. Steele had previously derided conservative activist Charlie Kirk during a discussion about British politics.

In response to the posts on “Libs of TikTok,” Musk urged Netflix subscribers to take action and boycotted Netflix for the sake of children’s well-being, calling the show’s content unacceptable.

After Musk’s announcement to his 226 million followers about canceling his own Netflix subscription, many others began sharing similar cancellations, intensifying the call for others to join the boycott. The account reported significant engagement,, garnering millions of views, likes, and reposts.

As a consequence, Netflix shares fell by 2% on Wednesday, following Musk’s appeal for cancellations.