This master's thesis analyzes the Australian preschool animated series Bluey, which has become a global phenomenon through its unique appeal to children and their parents. Critics and parents alike have praised the series for its approach to challenging gender stereotypes and demonstrating a deep understanding of contemporary parenthood. Particular attention has been given to the character of Bandit, Bluey's father, whose active and engaged parenting style is seen as a reflection of the increasing involvement of fathers in family life and child-rearing. However, as my analysis of selected episodes reveals, Bluey, despite its seemingly progressive portrayal, subtly reproduces traditional, patriarchal notions of parental role division at its core. Much of the series's success can be attributed to its complex narrative structures, cinematic aesthetics, pop culture references that primarily resonate with adults, and its emotionally moving depictions of everyday family life that foster strong identification among parent viewers. Nonetheless, by presenting an idealized image of family life — one broadly accessible only to heterosexual, dual-parent families with stable financial and social standing — the series paradoxically achieves an effect contrary to its apparent intention: instead of empowering parents, it fosters a sense of unattainable standards and ideals of parenthood.
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