Aardman Animation to Cut Leprosy Gag from "The Pirates: Band of Misfits"

The Hollywood Reporter notes that Aardman Animation Studios has agreed to cut a leprosy joke from the upcoming movie The Pirates! Band of Misfits after objections from several leprosy groups including Lepra Health In Action and the International Federation of Anti-Leprosy Associations (ILEP). The groups expressed concern that the scene "could increase the stigma and discrimination felt by people suffering from leprosy," and Aardman released a statement concurring and declaring that it would "change the scene out of respect and sensitivity for those who suffer from leprosy."

The Pirates! Band of Misfits is slated for release worldwide in late March 2012.

(via TZ member Astrolupine)