Disney’s “Coven Academy” Faces Criticism from One Million Moms
Conservative advocacy group One Million Moms has raised concerns over Disney’s upcoming series, “Coven Academy,” which they claim promotes witchcraft to children and teens. Set to premiere on October 1 on Freeform, with streaming available the following day on Disney+, Hulu, and Freeform on Demand, the show has been designated PG-V.
In an online alert, One Million Moms described the series as the latest in Disney’s ongoing agenda to introduce themes of witchcraft, sorcery, and secular values to young audiences, particularly targeting tweens and teens. They referred to it as an “original teen drama” or “teen soap opera.”
The group highlighted two biblical passages, Isaiah 8:19-22 and Deuteronomy 18:10-11, which caution against engaging with mediums and witchcraft. They criticized the show’s trailer for featuring themes like teen angst, a sisterhood of witches, romance, and vampires, all set to Olivia Rodrigo’s song “Brutal,” prompting further discontent due to Rodrigo’s ties to Planned Parenthood.
One Million Moms is encouraging supporters to sign a pledge committing to refrain from endorsing Disney and “Coven Academy,” and to disseminate their concerns via social media and email.
In response, Disney released details about the series, which is created by Tim Federle, who also serves as executive producer. “Coven Academy” is structured in short, dynamic chapters that aim to engage viewers more deeply. Initially planned for the Disney Channel, it was shifted to Freeform before the teaser trailer was unveiled.
Set in New Orleans, the series follows three teenage witches and their warlock peers as they navigate an elite magical school rife with danger. The storyline involves secretive stakes, romance, and the implications of supernatural conflicts, leading characters to confront risks for their safety and that of New Orleans.
The cast includes:
- Malina Pauli Weissman as Briar – A naive New Yorker discovering her witch identity.
- Malachi Barton as Jake – A warlock with a perilous edge.
- Jordan Leftwich as Sasha – A telepathic student.
Other notable cast members are Ora Duplass as Tegan, a time-bending witch; Louis Thresher as Ollie, a newly turned vampire; and Tiffani Thiessen as Miss Graves, the school’s head. Devon Sawa will guest star as Mr. Cole, a warlock professor.
Federle, known for his work on the “High School Musical” series, leads the production under his company, Chorus Boy Productions, in partnership with Disney Kids & Family.
