Everyone remembers the animated television show My Little Pony from the late 80’s and early 90’s. Girls would fall in love with the show and everything it represented; friendship, love, and peace. However, as of two years ago with the return of My Little Pony, the series has seen a huge increase in male fans!

They call themselves “bronies”; a fusion of the words “bro” and “pony”. They are fan boys of My Little Pony and are not afraid to admit it. In 2010, when My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic aired, the fan base of male viewers rose throughout the years till the numbers reached thousands. For those unfamiliar with the show, it’s about a group of ponies who go on adventures as they try to learn about friendship and love. The ponies go by names such as Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie.

But taking on such a title as “brony” and having an obsession with a series that is made for little girls does not come without its discontent. People look down upon bronies thinking they have malicious intent. That their obsession with these toys and this show for girls is only their way of feeding a more filthier obsession. I think such an idea is disgusting and extremely judgmental. Just because these guys are not watching ESPN or buying army toys does not mean they are after little girls.

The creator of the show, Lauren Faust, did not think there would be such a huge male fan base when she created the show but she welcomes it all the same. She thinks the label that society is placing on these guys is just awful. Apparently girls can enjoy shows meant for guys, but when it happens the other way around it is just unlawful. This past week, New Jersey hosted “BronyCon”. Thousands of males gathered dressed as their favorite character and just simply enjoyed the community of other fans. Their love for the friendship, peace, and love offered through this animated series is what brings them together; not some evil plot that they are thought to be scheming.

I think it’s great that guys can openly admit that they are a huge fan of a show that was made for the opposite sex. No one should have to limit themselves just because society deems it unusual for their gender. A common misconception is that the males that do like this show are also gay or bi-sexual. Wrong. All types of sexual orientation love My Little Pony. So if ponies and friendship is your thing, don’t let anyone steer you away from what you like. And I say that for men and women alike. Be who you wanna be!