Why Was Trader Sam Removed From Jungle Cruise?

By Robert Palmer

The recent news of Trader Sam’s removal from the Jungle Cruise ride at Disney Parks has sparked a lot of debate and controversy. Fans of the classic attraction are curious as to why one of its beloved characters has been taken out. Let’s dive in and explore the reasons behind this decision.

The History of Trader Sam

Trader Sam is a character that has been part of the Jungle Cruise attraction since its inception in 1955. He was initially depicted as a tribal chief who traded goods with visitors on the ride. In 2013, Disney updated his portrayal, turning him into a comical seller of exotic and rare goods.

Why Was Trader Sam Removed?

The official reason given by Disney for removing Trader Sam is to eliminate negative cultural depictions. The company has been under scrutiny in recent years for perpetuating stereotypes and offensive portrayals in some of its attractions. Therefore, they decided to remove characters that could be deemed problematic.

Controversy Surrounding Trader Sam

Trader Sam’s original depiction as a tribal chief trading with visitors could be seen as stereotyping indigenous cultures as primitive and exotic. Additionally, his later portrayal as a seller of exotic goods perpetuates the notion that people from non-Western cultures are strange and unusual.

The Future of Jungle Cruise

Disney has announced that they will be updating the Jungle Cruise ride to remove negative cultural depictions while still maintaining its classic charm. The updated attraction will feature a new storyline, new characters, and refreshed scenes designed to reflect diverse backgrounds and cultures.

Conclusion

While some fans are disappointed by the removal of Trader Sam, it’s important to acknowledge Disney’s efforts to eliminate negative cultural depictions in their attractions. The changes made to the Jungle Cruise ride reflect a growing awareness and sensitivity towards diverse cultures, which is essential in today’s world. We can look forward to a new and improved Jungle Cruise that celebrates different backgrounds and provides a positive and inclusive experience for all.