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 (formerly Twitter).
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 feel 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.