Television Crossdressing: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Crossdressing on television has a long and complicated history. While there have been some positive and groundbreaking portrayals, the majority of transgender characters have been depicted negatively or stereotypically. This article examines the prevalence of negative representations of transgender people on television over the past decade, highlighting both the harmful stereotypes and the few positive examples.

A Decade of Transgender Representation on TV: A Mixed Bag

A GLAAD study analyzing 102 episodes and storylines featuring transgender characters from 2002 to 2012 revealed a troubling trend: 54% of these portrayals were deemed negative. Only 12% were considered groundbreaking enough to warrant a GLAAD Media Award nomination. This disparity underscores the need for more accurate and nuanced representations of the transgender community on television.

Harmful Stereotypes Persist

The study revealed several recurring negative stereotypes:

• Victimization: Transgender characters were frequently cast as victims (40%).
• Villainization: A significant number (21%) were portrayed as killers or villains.
• Sex Work: The most common profession attributed to transgender characters was sex work (20%).
• Derogatory Language: Anti-transgender slurs and offensive language were prevalent in 61% of the analyzed content.

These stereotypes perpetuate harmful misconceptions and contribute to the marginalization of transgender individuals. Shows like CSI (CBS), The Cleveland Show (Fox), and Nip/Tuck (FX) were cited for particularly egregious examples of exploitative and negative portrayals, often depicting transgender characters as murderers, objects of ridicule, or predatory figures. Even networks previously recognized for inclusive content, like Showtime, have slipped into harmful portrayals.

A Glimmer of Hope: Positive Representations

Despite the prevalence of negative stereotypes, there have been some positive developments. Shows like Grey’s Anatomy (ABC), Cold Case (CBS), and Two and a Half Men (CBS) have demonstrated that transgender characters can be integrated into storylines in respectful and nuanced ways, earning GLAAD Media Award nominations for their efforts. Groundbreaking representations in shows like The Education of Max Bickford (CBS), Degrassi (Teen Nick), and Ugly Betty (ABC), while not always perfect, paved the way for more complex and multi-faceted transgender characters.

The Path Forward: Toward Authentic Representation

The GLAAD study highlights the urgent need for increased accuracy and diversity in the portrayal of transgender people on television. On Transgender Day of Remembrance, a day honoring the memory of victims of anti-transgender violence, it’s crucial for the entertainment industry to recognize its role in shaping public perception. Moving forward, television networks and creators must strive to move beyond harmful stereotypes and embrace authentic storytelling that reflects the diversity and complexity of the transgender community. This means portraying transgender individuals as fully realized characters with varied experiences, professions, and personalities, contributing to a more inclusive and understanding media landscape.