Dillon didn't take the choice lightly, and did enough research to send a really thoughtful letter to the Television Academy about what the actor/actress distinction really refers to - identity or anatomy - and whether it's necessary. And sure enough, it actually started a dialogue, with the Academy assuring Dillon that really, anyone can submit in any category they choose, for any reason.
Both the Academy and Dillon were happy with the discussion, and it demonstrates a positive exchange of ideas, moving toward a more inclusive industry. I just love that this relatively new performer, whose casting comes out of the pressure in Hollywood to cast trans and non-binary actors for trans and non-binary roles, took it upon themselves to resolve their personal debate publicly, because it has larger implications. Look out for Dillon at the Emmys this year, where they're a front runner in consideration within the "actor" category.
I love this. Such an important step forward and the beginning of a dialogue that should have started so much earlier. As happy as I am with the Academy's response, I have to say that I wasn't expecting it. It appears though, that a new chapter is beginning in the industry and the pace it is evolving at is relatively quick. I don't think that anyone expected positive and supportive reactions to this topic, but we are all pleased to see it happening to positively and progressively. Everyone should be represented equally, and the academy saying that either category works is so big for other actors to submit for in the future.
ReplyDeleteThis is really awesome. I appreciate the letter they sent explaining their decision to enter the actor category. I find it interesting that this decision had to do with the non-gendered nature of the word, since I had assumed it would more have to do with forced self-identification within the imposed binary. I also really am amazed by the fact that the show auditioned trans and non-binary actors, since a lot of media projects choose to cast cis stars for trans roles (Jared Leto, Elle Fanning and many more.) The argument often is that there is not any trans actors who auditioned, and my response is often you aren't looking hard enough. I think this discussion on award shows and these categories reflects a shifting cultural ideology regarding gender, with an embrace of gender fluidity. It will be interesting to see how categories like Best Actor and Best Actress change over time. Perhaps there will just be an actor/ supporting actor category regardless of gender. Or maybe a third category of non-binary will appear. I am excited for better representation in Hollywood.
ReplyDeleteI am shocked by this and I wish I wasn't and I also like you guys said wish that this hadn't taken so long. This is one of those things that I assumed would just never happen, or would cause such a ruckus in a place like the Academy, but Im glad that they actually took the time to understand Dillon's stance, rather than just using it as a publicity stunt. I think the Academy has a responsibility to encourage these discussions and progressions in the right direction, the Oscars have a huge audience which means there are many opportunities to use this platform as a mode of encouragement and support towards all.
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