14 Trans Stars Dragged Online for ‘Passing Privilege’ Complaints

The idea of ‘passing privilege‘ is a frequent and often heated debate within the transgender community, especially online. Several celebrities have faced criticism for comments seen as dismissive of different beauty standards or as showing they don’t understand the advantages of wealth. Fans often point out that having money allows access to medical procedures—like surgeries—that many transgender people can’t afford. This creates tension between those who can easily be accepted as cisgender and those who struggle with that acceptance. These celebrities have received considerable online backlash for their views on appearance and transitioning.

Caitlyn Jenner

The retired Olympic athlete received strong criticism after coming out as transgender, with many finding her comments insensitive to the challenges most transgender people face. People pointed out that her financial resources enabled her to quickly access gender-affirming care and clothing, giving her an advantage many others don’t have. A comment about struggling to choose outfits as the hardest part of becoming a woman drew particular frustration. Her conservative political stances also created distance with the transgender community and increased focus on her privilege. She continues to generate debate when speaking about transgender athletes and standards for medical transition.

Nikita Dragun

This popular beauty influencer has created a successful brand based on her carefully curated image, but she often receives backlash for potentially promoting unattainable beauty ideals to her younger followers. Many accuse her of hiding the extent of cosmetic surgery she’s had to achieve her appearance. Critics also point out that she seems to benefit from certain advantages while overlooking the challenges faced by Black trans women, even as she draws inspiration from Black culture. Discussions about her often revolve around whether her highly feminine style is empowering or harmful. She’s been involved in several online arguments, particularly on Twitter, where these concerns about privilege are frequently raised.

Hunter Schafer

The actress from ‘Euphoria’ faced criticism online after she liked a social media post that suggested non-binary people were responsible for laws negatively impacting transgender people. Many online users accused her of supporting beliefs that focus heavily on medical transition and appearing to conform to traditional gender roles. Critics said her action seemed to support harmful standards within the transgender community. The reaction was immediate, and the actress responded with a detailed statement explaining her views. Many fans felt she wasn’t acknowledging the advantages she has as a white woman who is often seen as fitting traditional gender norms in Hollywood.

Dylan Mulvaney

The TikTok creator gained popularity by sharing her transition journey in a series called ‘Days of Girlhood,’ but her quick rise to fame sparked criticism. Some argued she benefited from significant advantages, allowing her to quickly gain sponsorships and access healthcare. Others felt her depiction of womanhood reinforced outdated stereotypes and could be harmful if imitated by someone not fully understanding the complexities. The criticism grew when she visited the White House, becoming a focal point in discussions about the balance between representation and safety. Because of her large following, many feel she doesn’t accurately reflect the experiences of most transgender people.

Natalie Wynn

Contrapoints, a video essayist known for her thoughtful explorations of gender and aesthetics, has repeatedly faced online backlash and attempts to “cancel” her. Criticism often arises from her inclusion of controversial individuals, like Buck Angel, in her work. Much of the debate centers on her discussions of topics like “catgirls” and the impact of surgery on self-worth. Some critics argue that her analytical approach can overlook the experiences of people who don’t conform to traditional gender norms and feel excluded by her views. She frequently addresses the hurt caused by these debates and the attempts to silence her directly in her videos.

Kim Petras

The popular singer has been criticized for her connection to producer Dr. Luke and how she handled the resulting controversy. Some activists also suggest her success relies on being perceived as a traditionally feminine pop star, questioning whether a trans artist who doesn’t conform to typical gender expectations would have received the same level of support from the music industry. She’s also frequently criticized for not being vocal enough about important social and political issues. Her playful, sometimes rebellious image can also seem at odds with expectations for prominent transgender figures to be serious advocates.

Elliot Page

As a film fan, I remember when this actor landed on the cover of Time after coming out – the internet went wild! It was amazing to see that kind of visibility, but there was also a lot of discussion about the photos themselves. Some people felt the focus on his incredibly fit body wasn’t helpful, especially for trans men who haven’t had access to things like top surgery or personal training. It really highlighted how his celebrity status let him quickly achieve a physical ideal that takes years – or is impossible – for many others. It sparked a bigger conversation about body image within the trans masculine community, and what expectations are realistic and fair.

Jazz Jennings

Growing up with constant public attention, the reality star was once admired for her looks. But as she got older and dealt with weight fluctuations and mental health challenges, online comments turned harsh and critical. People, including former fans, began to attack her for not living up to the flawless image she once had. This situation showed how easily public approval can disappear if someone doesn’t maintain a certain beauty standard. It proved that even someone who initially enjoys privilege can quickly lose it and face negativity when their body changes.

Indya Moore

Billy Porter, the actor from ‘Pose,’ is well-known for speaking out on important issues, but has sometimes faced criticism on Twitter regarding discussions about appearance and identity. Specifically, some people felt they minimized the unique challenges faced by Black trans women by comparing their own experiences. Others have pointed out a contradiction between Porter’s criticism of beauty standards and their success as a model. These discussions often get stuck in repetitive arguments about colorism and preferences for certain features within the transgender community. Porter often responds by temporarily deleting their Twitter account to avoid the intense public debate.

Tommy Dorfman

The actress recently made headlines with a new interview and photoshoot. While many noticed her career change, some online criticized the advantages that allowed her to transition so smoothly and continue working with major fashion brands. She also faced backlash for seemingly dismissing her past persona too quickly. A major point of contention was the contrast between the acceptance she received and the struggles faced by trans women of color. Her experience sparked a conversation about how privilege and fame can make navigating a transition easier.

Ts Madison

The popular TV personality is known for her funny personality, but she’s recently received criticism for some of her comments about assuming someone’s gender. Younger activists have called her out for what they see as old-fashioned ideas about how transgender women should express themselves. This disagreement often highlights a difference in perspective between older transgender people who felt they needed to blend in to stay safe, and younger, non-binary activists. Her confident and open way of living sometimes clashes with those who believe in breaking down traditional gender roles altogether. Online arguments frequently erupt when she voices her opinions about how people behave within the LGBTQ+ community.

Laverne Cox

Though often praised by the media, actress Laverne Cox has received thoughtful criticism about how her beauty is emphasized. Some online commentators argue the media only values her for her looks, despite her openness about the work it takes to maintain her appearance. This criticism isn’t about her personally, but rather about the Hollywood standards she seems to represent. People closely watch her public platform, expecting her to use it to support those who are most often overlooked.

Leyna Bloom

The model and actress achieved a historic first as the first trans woman of color to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated. However, some online reactions questioned whether her acceptance depended on her meeting traditional beauty standards for swimwear models. Critics also pointed out that the magazine seemed to only feature trans women who closely resembled cisgender models, sparking a conversation about the objectification of trans bodies and catering to a male perspective. This created a challenging situation for the model, who was celebrating a significant achievement while facing online debate about the implications of her representation.

Trisha Paytas

The YouTuber received widespread criticism after posting a video where they identified as a transgender man but continued to express themselves with a very feminine presentation. People online strongly criticized them for seemingly treating being transgender as a temporary style choice. Many accused them of disrespecting the experiences of transgender people and misunderstanding the importance of being perceived as the gender you identify with. This reaction was also due to the YouTuber’s past behavior of intentionally provoking others and seeking attention with shocking statements. Many felt their actions minimized the real risks and dangers that transgender people face when they aren’t recognized as their true gender.

How do you think having certain advantages affects conversations online? We’d love to hear your perspective – please share your thoughts in the comments!

2025-12-04 14:16