The Wiggles' new kids' TV show introduces non-binary unicorn as viewers applaud inclusivity

Australian kids television show The Wiggles has taken a step towards a more inclusive cast by introducing a non-binary unicorn.

The popular children's singing show will now include a unicorn named Shirley Shawn who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, Pink News reports.

Watch The Wiggles introduce Shirley alongside other new characters below: 

However, the unicorn will not be the only non-binary character on the show, and they will be joined by a dancing police officer called Officer Beaples and Bok the hand puppet.

Blue Wiggle Anthony, one of the show's founders, said: "As society has evolved, we have embraced the need for diversity and inclusiveness and want children all over the world to see themselves reflected on the screen.

"It's so important that The Wiggles continue to evolve along with our society.

"This is the first step towards shaping The Wiggles for the next 30 years, taking us in a direction that truly represents and serves our community more inclusively."

News of the unicorn's inclusion was met with much praise on social media.

One Twitter user wrote: "This is fantastic. So good to see performers being able to perform and entertain as their own companies and industry collapses under more lockdowns [sic]."

A second added: "This is so great! I love seeing diversity and I'm certain children will heavily benefit from this!!"

A third wrote: "TIL that the Wiggles have a nonbinary character - Shirley Shawn the Nonbinary Unicorn - and (as a genderfluid grandparent) I am just over the moon!"

Meanwhile, a fourth wrote: "The Wiggles have been one of my secret obsessions as a parent. To say that I am thrilled by the addition of the new Wiggles and nonbinary unicorn Shirley Shawn is an understatement. More inclusive preschool tv for all!"

Despite the volume of support the decision was met with, not everyone's reaction to the unicorn on social media was so positive, as some critics believed it was a step too far.

Another Twitter user wrote: "The Wiggles are introducing new characters including a non binary [sic] cop. Australia is broken."

A second added: "A non binary unicorn joining The Wiggles.. give me a f**king breeeakk! [sic]"

Featured image credit: Alamy / rfranca