Hollywood Star Forced To Delete Post, Defend Definition Of Acting After Posing Question About Trans Actors

Actor Guy Pearce, who is best known for his roles in movies such as “L.A. Confidential” and “Memento,” was forced to delete a tweet and defend “the definition of acting” when he raised a question regarding transgender actors. Pearce tweeted, “if the only people allowed to play trans characters are trans folk, then are we also suggesting the only people trans folk can play are trans characters?” He also stated that limiting the roles that actors could play could restrict their careers. This raised concerns among people and he was criticized for his comments.

Later, Pearce posted a lengthy apology, stating that he was raising the question of gender identity in the casting process. He added that he did not believe artists should have to announce their personal identity, sexual preference, political stance, disability, or religious beliefs to attain work. The actor, who played a role in a movie about Drag Queens called “The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” also shared that he’s been asked several times whether he thought gay people should have played those roles instead.

Pearce believes that to “suggest ‘acting’ can only come from our own lived experience annihilates our imagination.” He concluded by stating that he believes the artistic community must discuss and develop this issue within itself, even if it involves “a little shouting.”