ABC to Demand One Nation Stop Using Bluey in ‘Shocking and Disrespectful’ Cartoon Ramming Politicians

Australia’s national broadcaster, the ABC, is preparing legal action against the rightwing populist party One Nation over an unauthorized cartoon featuring the beloved children’s character Bluey. The cartoon depicts Bluey ramming politicians with an SUV, which ABC managing director Hugh Marks called “shocking and disrespectful.” Marks told Senate estimates on Tuesday that he became aware of the potential intellectual property breach last week and has sought legal advice, confirming “We will be taking further action, I can assure you.” The ABC owns the intellectual property rights to Bluey, a globally popular animated series produced by Ludo Studio for the broadcaster. One Nation, led by Pauline Hanson, has not yet publicly responded to the cease and desist demand. The case highlights the growing tension between political expression and intellectual property rights, especially when beloved children’s characters are used in politically charged content without permission. As Bluey’s global popularity continues to soar, the ABC’s move signals a firm stance on protecting its brand from misuse. The outcome could set a precedent for how media companies handle unauthorized political use of their characters in Australia and beyond.