50 Cent Sparks Debate Over LGBTQ+ Themes in Kids’ Movies: “I Just Want to Raise My Kids the Traditional Way”
Rapper and entrepreneur 50 Cent — real name Curtis Jackson — is once again at the center of a cultural debate after sharing his views on parenting and children’s entertainment. In a recent interview, the “In Da Club” hitmaker said he wants to raise his kids “the traditional way,” expressing concern about what he sees as early exposure to complex conversations around gender and sexuality in animated films and streaming content.
“No Prejudice – Just Values”
Jackson, who is a father of two, said his perspective comes from wanting to preserve childhood innocence, not from rejecting inclusion.
“I grew up with a certain idea of family, and I want to raise my kids the traditional way — no prejudice, just values,” he explained. “But I don’t think every cartoon needs to teach my child about sexuality or gender identity. Let kids be kids first.”
The rapper added that he isn’t “against anyone,” but believes that some modern children’s media introduces topics he feels are better understood later in life.
“It’s not about hate,” he said. “It’s about timing.
There’s a difference between teaching acceptance and forcing understanding before a child can even process it.”
Backlash and Support
50 Cent’s comments quickly sparked conversation across social media. Some parents voiced agreement, saying they appreciate the idea of parental choice in what kids watch. Others criticized his stance, arguing that representation in children’s content helps foster empathy, reduce bullying, and create safe spaces for kids who may feel different.
LGBTQ+ advocates responded by noting that inclusive storytelling can help normalize diverse identities and encourage acceptance early on.
“Visibility isn’t about forcing ideas — it’s about showing kids that kindness and respect exist for everyone,” one advocate wrote on X
A Larger Cultural Conversation
Jackson has long been outspoken about social issues, sometimes drawing controversy for his views. In this case, he insists the discussion is not political but personal.
“My job is to guide my kids, not the TV,” he said.
“I just want them to grow up grounded, respectful, and with their own understanding of the world – when they’re ready for it.”
His comments have reignited a larger debate about where to draw the line between
representation and parental discretion — a question that continues to divide public opinion as children’s media evolves.
Parenting in a Changing Media
Landscape
The conversation highlights the challenges many parents face today: balancing inclusivity with age-appropriate storytelling. While some believe early exposure to diverse families and identities builds empathy, others teel parents should decide when those conversations happen.
For 50 Cent, the answer is simple — at least for his household. “I want to protect their innocence for as long as I can,” he said. “When they’re older, we’ll talk about everything. But right now, I just want them to be kids.”
As the cultural conversation around children’s media continues, his comments show how deeply personal — and complex — the debate remains for families navigating a rapidly changing world.
