The US just passed the middle of 2026’s Black History Month, and as expected, it didn’t go without controversy. Surprisingly, the controversy came from Disney Channel Jr. of all places, after their Black History Month commemoration episode for Hey A.J.! featured a superhero called Durag Man/Captain Durag. For those who are unaware, the durag or do-rag is a common African American head fabric.
The Black superhero appeared in Episode 8 of Hey A.J.! where he goes around doing good deeds and helping the show’s main characters while wearing a black durag paired with a purple outfit. Sadly, his appearance was somewhat problematic for many, as one viral X user detailed. Apparently, “Many Black Americans feel this is extremely disrespectful and even more so during Black History Month.”
As a result of the controversy and backlash from multiple communities, Disney allegedly took down videos of Durag Man/Captain Durag from their YouTube channel. Hence, it might be difficult to procure videos of Durag Man in action at the moment. Still, the creator’s intent might not have been inherently harmful, as she actually spoke out just recently on X regarding the situation and why she created the character.
Camille Corbett, Durag Man’s creator, was admittedly surprised by the backlash and was puzzled at “finding out people are finding it problematic.” According to Corbett, “I just wanted our culture to have a superhero of its own!” with the cultural headpiece as the cornerstone of the superhero’s existence, based on what it supposedly represents for Black History Month.
People online are torn on the issue
Sadly, a lot of people might not be able to see Durag Man anymore because it was taken down, but certain viewers who have allegedly watched the episode were raising their eyebrows at the representation attempt. One YouTube user pointed out that Durag Man “doesn’t even fight crime” and just “takes out the garbage” as he only fought “germs” in A.J.’s room. Not exactly an ideal debut for a superhero.
On the other hand, certain members of the Black community don’t exactly see what the fuss was about, as it’s a kid’s show, and the creator was Black anyway. “I really don’t see an issue with this… also this is my first time ever hearing about this lol. Seems like someone who would have been a character on the Proud Family 🤷🏾♂️. Bigger fish to fry in my opinion,” expressed an X user.
Another echoed the sentiment, “I truly do not understand living life and being offended by everything.” Of course, some clapped back against these arguments, claiming, “Understandable why this sparked backlash. Cultural symbols like the durag carry deep significance, and turning it into a superhero gimmick.” As of now, it’s not clear what Disney Jr. plans to do with the character in the future, or if it has any future at all.
