Upcoming Drama’s Transgender Plot Line Sparks Outrage, Calls For Cancellation

Netizens were initially anticipating the series.
Asia
Koreaboo

Known around the world as one of the most popular production agencies for BL (boy love) and GL (girl love) content, GMMTV recently announced its upcoming line-up of programs.

This includes several BL and GL dramas, including one titled Her The Series, set to star “Namtan” Tipnaree Weerawatnodom and “Film” Rachanun Mahapreukpong who appeared in Pluto together. “Junior“ Panachai Sriariyarungruang will also appear in the series in an important role.

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| GMMTV

However, upon the release of the trailer, many netizens found the plot line to be highly problematic.

Junior and Namtan are actually playing the same character Arpo, who was born biologically male. After discovering his bride cheating and suffering an attack, Arpo fakes his death and appears to return as a woman seeking revenge against those who wronged her.

While gender and body swapping are common tropes in dramas, some details have pointed to Arpo’s transformation being done through gender affirming surgery. At one point in the teaser, Arpo appears to use dilators, which are used by those who have had a version vaginoplasty that creates a vaginal canal, which must be kept open through the use of dilators.

While speaking about the series, the Namtan reportedly confirmed the plotline, remarking she’d be playing the character after their transition.

Many have pointed out several issues with the series, including having a male lead in a GL series, and having a cisgendered woman playing a trans role when the company has transgender actresses signed. The most discussed issue is the alleged usage of gender transitioning for “revenge,” rather than gender affirmation.

Netizens have commented their thoughts, highlighting the difficulties transgender individuals face when trying to have gender affirming surgery.

 

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