One of the most iconic animated series to come out of the 90s (and perhaps even helped redefine it) was The Ren & Stimpy Show. Chronicling the stories of a sociopathic Chihuahua named Ren and a far from intelligent cat named Stimpy, the series heavily relied on irreverent humor and gross-out comedy, allowing it to find a home on networks such as Nickelodeon.
Nowadays, if anyone were to ask a fan what they remember from the show, they may bring up Log or Powdered Toast Man, or even the classic line "Stimpy, you idiot!"; however, many had no idea that there was a darker history when it came to the creator. John Kricfalusi may be known for creating the series. Still, he has also been known for abusing multiple young children during his time running the show; now, with the announcement of a reboot from Comedy Central, one of his victims is taking a stand.
Robyn Byrd, one of the many victims of Kricfalusi, has drafted a petition for ViacomCBS to halt the production of the reboot. While he will not be apart of the reboot, Byrd feels the spotlight could endanger fans and crew while also causing trauma. Byrd has also stated, “We can’t erase Ren & Stimpy, but we don’t have to popularize it all over again and bring new attention to its creator. I don’t care if people want to watch the old shows. But a new one isn’t an appropriate way to spend young artists’ time … I think young people, marginalized voices especially, should be who the execs are listening to.” Holding steadfast in her beliefs, Byrd also said, “This man used Ren & Stimpy to lure young people to his studio and into his confidence, only to abuse them, stunt their careers, and molest young girls. He WILL DO IT AGAIN.”
Her feelings about avoiding a repeat of her past experiences do not go without being heard by those who feel the same way. Since the posting of this article, the petition has garnered just over 12,000 signatures! We would love to hear your thoughts on this story in the comments below!
The series follows the adventures of title characters: Ren, an emotionally unstable and sociopathic Chihuahua, and Stimpy, a good-natured yet dimwitted cat.
No response has come from ViacomCBS concerning the petition to stop Ren & Stimpy.