Beloved Children’s Character Franklin the Turtle Sparks Outrage After Pentagon’s Violent Depiction

A cherished young turtle from a Canadian children’s book series finds himself at the center of an international dispute after the United States Department of Defence featured the character in a controversial cartoon depicting the killing of alleged drug traffickers.

The publisher of the “Franklin the Turtle” books is vehemently criticizing Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth for a social media post that portrayed the popular children’s character firing a large weapon at suspected criminals. “We strongly condemn any denigrating, violent, or unauthorized use of Franklin’s name or image,” stated the publisher, Kids Can Press.

Secretary Hegseth’s social media post showcased a satirical book cover titled “Franklin Targets Narco Terrorists,” depicting Franklin in a military helicopter, armed with a powerful weapon, engaging alleged drug boats. Hegseth’s caption for the image read: “For your Christmas wish list…” This controversial image surfaces amidst recent US military operations targeting suspected Venezuelan drug boats since early September. Officials have stated these actions are taken in self-defence, aiming to intercept illicit drugs bound for the US.

Franklin, the 6-year-old cartoon turtle, is renowned for navigating everyday childhood challenges, from learning to ride a bicycle to experiencing his first sleepover. The character originated as the protagonist in the Canadian children’s book “Franklin the Turtle” and has since expanded to numerous television shows, films, video games, and live productions. Kids Can Press emphasized that “Franklin the Turtle is a beloved Canadian icon who has inspired generations of children and stands for kindness, empathy, and inclusivity,” adding that such a violent portrayal “directly contradicts these values.”

In response, Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell countered, saying on Monday night, “We doubt Franklin the Turtle wants to be inclusive of drug cartels… or laud the kindness and empathy of narco-terrorists.”

This incident mirrors other recent disputes involving artists and the US government. Singer Sabrina Carpenter strongly criticized officials for using her song in a video about deporting migrants, stating on social media, “Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda.” Earlier this year, the creators of Pokémon similarly stated they had not authorized the use of their theme song and imagery in a US government video promoting a deportation raid. British singer Jess Glynne also voiced her disapproval in July after government officials utilized her song from a viral advert in a video promoting deportations. Millenium TV sought comment from the artists credited with creating Franklin and authoring his books, but received no immediate response.