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6 myths about trans people from TV and film — and the truth behind them
6 myths about trans people from TV and film — and the truth behind them
Canela LópezJul 9, 2020, 23:31 IST
Disclosure/Netflix
Netflix's recent documentary "Disclosure" dives into the dangerous myths film and television have spread about transgender people over the last several decades
Some TV shows sensationalize gender-affirming care trans people receive by implying hormone replacement therapy (HRT) changes personalities or kills people altogether.
The myth that transgender people are just playing dress-up directly contributes to violence — especially against Black transgender women and femmes.
Here are six myths about trans people from TV and film, and the reality behind them.
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Myth: Testosterone makes transgender people aggressive and violent.
The L Word/Showtime
Myth: Hormone replacement therapies like estrogen and testosterone will give you cancer.
Disclosure/Netflix
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Myth: Transgender people aren't whole until they get 'the surgery.'
Crystal Cox/Business Insider
Myth: Most transwomen and femmes are sex workers.
The 40-Year-Old Virgin/Apatow Productions
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Myth: Transgender women and femmes are deranged serial killers.
Buffalo Bill was a serial killer character in "Silence of the Lambs" who skinned his female victims to wear their bodies.
Silence of the Lambs/Orion Pictures Corporation
Myth: Transgender people are just playing dress-up.