Heartbreak

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A recent decision by the UK’s Supreme Court stated that transgender individuals are not considered women, sparking widespread controversy among members of the LGBTQ+ community throughout Britain, with notable figures like trans activist Bel Priestley being affected.

In an interview with ITV (through representatives), actress Priestley – known for her role as Naomi on the popular Netflix series – discussed the recent decision and expressed how it resonated with her personally. She described it as a “tragic situation,” explaining that while she understood certain parts of the ruling hadn’t taken effect yet, she was concerned about potential increases in hate crimes.

I can’t help but recall instances like Brianna Ghey, a 16-year-old trans girl brutally taken from us in broad daylight, simply for being who she was. And when I read the comments people post about us online and hear the things they say, it makes me wonder…”

“What I’ve always asked myself is this: if you were walking down the street and you were visibly trans, would you feel more secure or in danger?”

“I believe we can all agree that the answer would be fear and a sense of vulnerability. That’s exactly how so many of us feel right now.

Although no law currently requires trans women to use male restrooms, Priestley expresses concern about a potential future legislation. She affirmed her identity as a woman by stating, ‘I will always use the women’s toilet.’ If such a law is enacted and it’s based on biological sex, it’s unclear who can determine that, except the individual themselves. This raises questions: Will trans men start using women’s spaces? Would I be forced to enter male spaces? Such a scenario could potentially put me at risk, and I doubt men would welcome my presence as much as I would.

The series has garnered praise for its heartwarming narrative and straightforward handling of prejudice and fears. Interestingly, Priestley, who portrays Naomi, a friend of Elle Argent, was already popular on TikTok before joining the show. Notably, both roles are played by transgender actresses.

British TV Stars Have Spoken Out Against The Ruling

In response to the Supreme Court’s decision, I, too, find myself feeling a mix of anger and disdain, much like others in the British entertainment sphere. Recently, I’ve noticed some prominent figures expressing their disapproval on social media. As for me, I took to my Instagram Story to voice my feelings. “All my life, trans individuals have never made me feel unsafe,” I penned down. “On the contrary, it’s cis people who have instilled a sense of unease within me. You claim to champion women’s rights, yet you don’t represent my views. Your bigotry is still bigotry.

Simultaneously, we have JK Rowling’s series (which has been criticized for its stance against transgender individuals) and the HBO adaptation underway. In a post, she expressed, “I’d rather keep my distance from the new Harry Potter cast. I wouldn’t go near it with a ten-foot pole,“.

Adjoa Andoh, known for her roles in both Bridgerton and Doctor Who, took part in a trans rights protest recently. She expressed her support by posting on social media, stating “Trans Rights are Human Rights”. She wished everyone a Happy Easter and invited everyone to join her at Parliament Square the day before, basking in the sunshine together.

If Heartstopper gets another season, it could potentially address the increasing issue of transphobia in both the UK and the U.S. effectively.

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2025-04-22 00:06