A Canadian children’s book character, Franklin the Turtle, has found himself at the center of a heated debate after being featured in a cartoon by the US Department of Defense that advocates violence against drug traffickers.
The character’s publisher, Kids Can Press, has openly criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for a social media post that depicts Franklin engaging in aggressive actions against alleged drug lords. They stated: “We profoundly disapprove of any violent or unauthorized portrayals of Franklin’s image or name.”
Sabrina Carpenter, a popular singer and actress, joined the uproar on Tuesday by condemning the White House for using her music in a video focused on deporting migrants. She described such use as “evil and disgusting,” asserting, “Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda.”
The cartoon shared by Hegseth featured a mock-up of a book cover displaying Franklin in a military helicopter and aimed at what appeared to be drug boats, creatively titled “Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists.” This post comes amid intensified US military actions against Venezuelan drug trafficking activities.
Hegseth’s post caption joked, “For your Christmas wish list…” which many found inappropriate given the gravity of the subject.
Franklin the Turtle, who is just six years old in the stories, is typically seen tackling everyday challenges, such as riding his bike and attending sleepovers. Originally the star of the “Franklin the Turtle” books, he has since become a part of various TV shows, films, video games, and even stage performances.
In their statement, Kids Can Press also emphasized that “Franklin the Turtle is an iconic Canadian character who fosters kindness, empathy, and inclusion,” noting that depicting him in a violent manner contradicts these essential values.
The Pentagon’s spokesperson, Sean Parnell, defended the administration’s stance saying that “We doubt Franklin the Turtle wants to support drug cartels… or celebrate the kindness associated with narco-terrorists.”
When approached for comments, the creators and authors behind Franklin didn’t respond to the BBC’s inquiries.
Previously, the Pokémon Company had voiced similar concerns when their theme song improperly featured in a video about ICE deportation operations.
British singer Jess Glynne also criticized White House officials earlier this year when they used her song in a viral advertisement linked to deportation promotions.
- Pokémon denied permission for ICE deportation video
- Jess Glynne described the White House’s deportation video using her song as ‘sick’
