SpongeBob SquarePants rainbow episode censored in Russia amid LGBTQ+ ‘propaganda’ crackdown
SpongeBob SquarePants’ rainbow episode is a viral meme (Nickelodeon)
A famous episode of SpongeBob SquarePants has been censored in Russia amid the country’s ongoing crackdown on so-called LGBTQ+ “propaganda”.
In the episode, SpongeBob talks about the joy of using one’s imagination, painting a rainbow over his head.
The moment has nothing to do with Pride, but a clip from the Russian version shows SpongeBob painting a plain yellow arc instead, leading many to conclude the change was made to comply with Russia’s propaganda laws.
The edit is especially noticeable given the original scene has been a viral meme for years, used across social media in countless contexts.
While the moment is unrelated to LGBTQ+ identities, there has long been speculation about the yellow sponge’s sexuality, which may have contributed to the decision to censor it.
The cartoon favourite is not officially gay, and the show’s creator Stephen Hillenburg has suggested he thinks of him as asexual.
Back in 2020, Nickelodeon, the home of SpongeBob, seemed to confirm at least that the character was LGBTQ+.
To celebrate Pride month, the channel shared artwork of some Nickelodeon characters, including SpongeBob.
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