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Transgender representation in media

For a long time, transgender characters in Western media were scarce and stereotyped — often as victim, sex worker or psychologically unstable character.

Historical image

For a long time, transgender characters in Western media were scarce and stereotyped — often as victim, sex worker or psychologically unstable character. Films such as 'Boys Don't Cry' (1999) marked more realistic portrayal.

Recent change

From around 2014 (success of 'Transparent' and 'Orange Is the New Black'), visibility in TV series increased sharply. Transgender actors more often play transgender roles, which advocacy organisations value as positive.

Points of debate

Recent debate concerns the balance of representation (only positive narratives or also complexity), the depiction of detransition, and the role of transgender characters in youth content.