Transcending Dominant Depictions of Transness in Contemporary Television: Trans Fluidity in RuPaul's Drag Race and Euphoria

Abstract

The representation of transgender people in US television has undergone a shift in the last few years as the depiction of transness moved away from heteronormative stereotypes toward a more fluid conception of gender and sexuality. While trans people have been predominantly depicted as hyperfeminine or hypermasculine in television, recent portrayals have demonstrated that there are actually many ways to be trans. This research project analyzes two of these portrayals, the reality television show RuPaul’s Drag Race (2009-present) on the one hand and the drama television series Euphoria (2019-present) on the other. Through the figures of Gottmik and Jules, this project examines the ways in which RuPaul’s Drag Race and Euphoria represent (white) transness and show audiences that ‘trans’ is fluid rather than fixed, a verb rather than a noun. Whereas Gottmik embraces his femininity as a trans man, Jules explores the endless possibilities of being a trans woman. Crucial to the depiction of transness in the two case studies is the fact that trans people are involved in their own representation, which does not only result in a depiction that is intricate and authentic but one that is lifesaving and lifegiving too. Considering that 80% of Americans bases their understanding of trans people on what they see in the media, television shows are not merely entertainment but education too. As harmful and inaccurate representation puts trans people at risk, which can range from being misunderstood and marginalized to being discriminated and physically harmed, accurate and ‘care-full’ representation saves trans lives. Working with television, affect and trans theory, this is ultimately a project of hope, tracing a shift that hopefully continues to transform television and positively affect audiences in the future.