A well-known turtle from a Canadian children’s book series finds itself embroiled in an international dispute after the U.S. Department of Defense utilized the character in a cartoon depicting the killing of alleged drug traffickers.
Kids Can Press, the publisher of the “Franklin the Turtle” books, has expressed strong disapproval of a social media post by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth that portrays the beloved children’s character shooting at alleged criminals.
“We strongly condemn any denigrating, violent, or unauthorized use of Franklin’s name or image,” the publisher stated.
The publisher is not alone in its criticism. Sabrina Carpenter recently denounced the White House for incorporating her song into a video concerning the deportation of migrants, labeling it “evil and disgusting”.
“Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda,” the singer posted, conveying her displeasure.
In the case of Franklin, the cartoon shared by Hegseth on social media is a mock book cover that depicts Franklin in a military helicopter firing a large weapon at alleged drug boats. The fabricated title reads: “Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists.”
The image surfaces amid a series of U.S. strikes on alleged Venezuelan drug boats since early September. The Trump administration maintains that it is acting in self-defense by targeting boats carrying illicit drugs to the U.S.
Hegseth captioned the post: “For your Christmas wish list…”
Franklin, the 6-year-old cartoon turtle, is widely recognized for navigating everyday challenges, ranging from learning to ride a bike to experiencing his first sleepover.
The character originated in the Canadian children’s book “Franklin the Turtle” and has since become the star of numerous television shows, films, video games, and live productions.
“Franklin the Turtle is a beloved Canadian icon who has inspired generations of children and stands for kindness, empathy, and inclusivity,” Kids Can Press articulated in its statement, emphasizing that the violent depiction “directly contradicts these values.”
Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell issued a statement on Monday night asserting that “We doubt Franklin the Turtle wants to be inclusive of drug cartels… or laud the kindness and empathy of narco-terrorists.”
The artists credited with creating Franklin and authoring his books have not yet responded to requests from the BBC for comment.
In September, Pokémon stated that it did not grant permission for the use of its theme song and other footage in a deportation raid video posted by the U.S. government.
British singer Jess Glynne also voiced criticism of White House officials in July after they featured a viral Jet2holiday advertisement containing her song in a video promoting deportations.