British film censors have succumbed to the demands of critics who pushed for change in Mary Poppins’ age rating. The 1964 movie has been changed from a “U,” which means universal, to “Parental Guidance (PG). The BBFC said some parts of the film “exceed our guidelines” for Universal ratings, hence the decision.
The classic featured derogatory language originally used by white Europeans to refer to southern African nomads as soot-faced chimney-sweeps. Mary Poppins got several awards and nominations including five Oscars for best actress and best song.
‘Mary Poppins’ changes age rating from U to PG – fans react
The original version of Mary Poppins included two uses of the word “Hottentots,” referring to the Khoikhoi and San people. Since it is “generally considered both archaic and offensive,” the BBFC decided that the rating be modified to PG. “Unaccompanied children of any age may watch, but parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger, or more sensitive, children,” the board states about PG-rated films adding that they “should not unsettle a child aged around eight or older.”
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The former rating was “suitable for audiences aged four years and over.” however, due to racial concerns from the film, parents were worried about “the potential to expose children to discriminatory language or behavior which they may find distressing or repeat without realizing the potential offense.”
Disney fans on X, formerly Twitter, were furious about the BBFC’s decision and did not hesitate to express their thoughts. “You couldn’t make it up. Julie Andrews’ film ‘Mary Poppins’ has had its classification changed from U to PG,” a user announced. “‘Mary Poppins’ is trending because in 2024 it’s been decided the film should be changed from U to PG rating,” another echoed.
A commenter noted that there are “so many bigger issues in media that really are affecting childhoods” other than thinking “‘Mary Poppins’ needs parental guidance to be seen.”
“‘Mary Poppins’ is racist and they’re putting a pill tax on toaster. Is it time to go home yet?” someone else agreed. “Can it get any more ridiculous?” another asked.