The studio apologized in a statement: “We are the filmmakers and Warner Bros. Pitchers is deeply saddened to learn that the portrayal of fictional characters in The Witches can upset people with disabilities, and regrets any crime committed.”

The statement continued: “While adapting to the original story, we worked with designers and artists to come up with new interpretations of cat-like paws as described in the books. Viewers never thought that imaginative, human beings were there to represent them. It’s about the power of friendship. We hope families and children can enjoy the film and embrace this empowering, loving theme. “

This was criticized after viewers said that the movie showed differences in the arms and legs of the characters which negatively portrayed the handicapped. Some took to social media with the hashtag #NotAWitch.

Paralympic medalist Amy Maren wrote via Twitter: “@ Please educate yourself on the #limb difference and support the idea that you are #NotAWitch, as you too can actively support the organ difference community by using different looking words , As it describes us as people, is not the difference that defines us. “