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Disney changes name of ‘Fairy Godmothers in Training’ to gender-neutral title

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Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique cast members are now called ‘Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices’.

Disney has changed the name of its Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique staff from ‘Fairy Godmothers in Training’ to ‘Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices’ in order to be more inclusive.

The former Fairy Godmothers in Training title was given to cast members who turned children into Disney characters at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique locations.

However, Disney has altered the title to be more inclusive, with employees now known as Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices, a spokesperson told CNN.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique staff get new titles

Previously, only women could work in the boutique. Now, men will be able to become Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices, according to the spokesperson.

“With the wave of a magic wand – plus a few hands-on tricks of the trade – our Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices will pamper and primp your child until they look storybook stunning,” says the Walt Disney World website.

“Children can choose a hairstyle then add makeup, nail polish and accessories – even a Disney costume,” it adds.

“Share the fun as your little one enjoys a resplendently royal head-to-toe transformation!”

Last year, the chairman of Disney’s parks division Josh D’Amaro revealed the company was updating its rules for cast members, allowing gender-inclusive hairstyles and accessories, as well as appropriate tattoos.

Inclusivity at Disney theme parks

“It’s important to me to share how we’re creating a place where everyone is welcome and taking action to create meaningful change,” he wrote in a blog post titled ‘A Place Where Everyone is Welcome’.

D’Amaro said this is “just the beginning” for Disney’s theme parks. “There’s more to do, but we’re committed to listening, learning and making meaningful improvements.”

Disney is already making its attractions more inclusive, with Splash Mountain opening as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in 2024. For the new The Princess and the Frog-themed attraction, Disney is removing elements from 1946’s Song of the South.

Images: Disney

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Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

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