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Almost 60 years after its release, “Mary Poppins” has been reclassified by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) because it presents “discriminatory language,” the BBC reported.
The film, starring Julie Andrews in the title role, has been moved from a U rating (synonymous with G rating) to a PG rating. The change is due to the film’s use of “Hottentot,” a derogatory term for the Khoikhoi (the traditionally nomadic indigenous pastoral population of South Africa) originally used by Dutch settlers. The term is said twice by Admiral Boom, who first mentions it while conversing with one of Banks’ children, and later uses it as a description for chimney sweeps with soot-covered faces.
“We understand from our research on racism and discrimination… that a key concern for… parents is the possibility of exposing children to discriminatory language or behavior that they may find distressing or repeat without realizing the potential offence,” said. The BBFC spokesperson told the Daily Mail. “Content with immediate and clear condemnation is more likely to receive a lower rating.”
The rating change only affects the theatrical version of the film. Home entertainment versions are still rated U, according to the BBFC.