By Janice Robinson-Celeste, Publisher & CEO, Successful Black Parenting
Pixar has done it again. Win or Lose, launching on Disney+ on February 19, is the animation studio’s first-ever original series, and it’s a must-watch for families. This series isn’t just about softball—it’s about life. It explores the highs and lows of growing up, the power of perspective, and the way a single moment can feel like everything to a child. With humor, heart, and a refreshing storytelling approach, Win or Lose offers something truly special for kids and parents alike.
Michael Yates and the Power of Perspective
As someone who champions diverse representation in children’s media, I was thrilled to learn that Win or Lose is co-created, co-written, and co-directed by Michael Yates, a talented African American animator and filmmaker. Representation behind the scenes is just as important as what we see on screen, and Yates’ voice helps bring richness and authenticity to the series.
One of the most brilliant aspects of the show is its focus on different perspectives—something co-creator Yates said was inspired by his own experiences at Pixar. While working on Toy Story 4, he and co-creator Carrie Hobson noticed how they could sit in the same meeting and walk away with completely different takeaways. That realization became the foundation of Win or Lose, showing how our own experiences and emotions shape the way we see the world.
It’s a powerful lesson for both kids and adults. Sometimes, we assume we know what someone else is thinking or feeling, but Win or Lose reminds us that everyone has their own reality, and understanding different perspectives is key to empathy and growth.
The Game Plan: What Win or Lose is All About
The series tells the interconnected stories of eight different characters leading up to their big championship softball game. But here’s the twist—each episode is told from a different character’s perspective, showing how their own experiences shape the way they see the world. One moment that feels triumphant to one person might be a disaster to another, and that’s the magic of Win or Lose.
From insecure kids struggling to find their confidence to a lovesick umpire (yes, really), the show gives us a full spectrum of personalities that make youth sports—and life—so chaotic, funny, and meaningful.
Laurie ’s Story: A Struggle Many Kids Know Too Well
One of the standout characters is Laurie, a young girl who desperately wants to get a hit but just can’t seem to connect with the ball. She’s willing to work hard, sweat (literally), and do whatever it takes to improve. But instead of coaching her, her father—who also happens to be the team’s coach—instead focuses his energy on the team’s star player.
If you’ve ever been a kid who felt overshadowed or a parent trying to balance fairness with strategy, this storyline will hit home. And in true Pixar fashion, Laurie’s stress and anxiety take a fun, visual twist—her sweat manifests into a conscious creature that grows bigger the more pressure she puts on herself. It’s a clever way to show how overwhelming self-doubt can be for kids.
Rochelle and Her Mom: A Story That Hits Close to Home
Rochelle’s influencer mom is one of the most relatable characters in the series, especially for single parents. She’s a hardworking mother doing her best to provide for her children, all while masking her own struggles. Meanwhile, Rochelle, as the eldest, takes on too much responsibility—a reality so many Black and brown children know all too well. The moment she literally changes into her “adult outfit” is one of the most powerful scenes, symbolizing the parentification and weight that often falls on the oldest sibling in a family.
This mother-daughter dynamic is raw and real, showing how love, sacrifice, and unspoken struggles shape family relationships. Parents watching Win or Lose will likely see a piece of themselves in Rochelle’s mom—trying to do it all while ensuring their kids don’t feel the burden.
The Small Details That Make a Big Impact
Pixar never fails to add humor and personality to its characters, and Win or Lose delivers some memorable side characters. The umpire? Absolutely adorable. And then there’s that one kid who eerily predicts the future—what’s up with him? His moments add an extra layer of mystery and comedy to the show.
The animation style is fresh and unique, setting it apart from other Pixar productions while maintaining the studio’s signature emotional depth. The voice cast, which includes talents like Will Forte, Milan Elizabeth Ray, and Lil Rel Howery, brings each character to life in a way that feels natural and engaging.
A Win With Room For More Representation
I thoroughly enjoyed Win or Lose. It’s a fresh, thoughtful, and entertaining series that families will love. It captures the emotions of childhood, the ups and downs of sports, and the complexity of family relationships in a way that feels real and relatable.
There’s just one swing and a miss. While Win or Lose takes a great step toward diversity, there’s still room to grow. We need more African American representation overall in animation—representation that allows Black children to see themselves reflected in meaningful ways. I anticipate seeing Yates champion this even further in future episodes by developing one of the African American families in the series, and helping to further push the boundaries of inclusion in storytelling.
That said, this series is a definite win in my book. Whether you’re a kid dreaming of making the big play, a parent navigating the highs and lows of raising an athlete, or just someone who loves great storytelling, Win or Lose is a must-watch. Win or Lose is out today, February 19. Get ready to step up to the plate—this is one game you don’t want to miss.
NLI
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