NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – The British animated children’s shows “Peppa Pig” and “Fireman Sam” are being accused of sexism over how they referred to people who fight fires.
London’s fire service, the London Fire Brigade, took to Twitter to lament the use of the word “fireman” instead of “firefighter” in an episode of “Peppa Pig.”
“Come on @peppapig, we’ve not been firemen for 30 years. You have a huge influence on kids & using out of date stereotypical gender specific wording prevents young girls from becoming firefighters,” the brigade tweeted over the weekend.
Folks on both sides were quick to respond, bringing the long-running British show "Fireman Sam" into the debate.
TV host and commentator Piers Morgan tweeted: “If women are being 'put off' joining the fire service because Fireman Sam - A CARTOON CHARACTER - supposedly 'perpetuates male stereotypes' then can I politely suggest these women probably don't have what it takes to fight fires.”
Astley Baker Davies and Entertainment One, the production companies behind “Peppa Pig,” have yet to comment.
Mattel, which produces "Fireman Sam," told CNN, in part: "Fireman Sam is a much loved and iconic brand and we are constantly evolving to make sure that we stay true to the show's heritage as well as representing the world that children see around them today."