Dylan Mulvaney is a transgender actress, comedian, and content creator who rose to prominence on TikTok documenting her gender transition. Her “Days of Girlhood” series, beginning in early 2022, chronicled her journey with hormones, surgeries, and the everyday experiences of navigating life as a trans woman. This series resonated with a wide audience, garnering millions of views and followers, and making her a prominent voice within the transgender community and beyond.
Mulvaney’s content is characterized by its lighthearted and optimistic tone. She often uses humor to address serious topics related to gender identity, body image, and societal expectations. Her videos explore themes such as learning how to apply makeup, experiencing periods for the first time (with the assistance of estrogen), and navigating the complexities of dating. She also uses her platform to educate her audience about transgender issues, terminology, and the challenges faced by the trans community.
Her success has led to collaborations with major brands, including Nike, Ulta Beauty, and most notably, Bud Light. This partnership with Bud Light in April 2023 sparked significant controversy and a widespread boycott of the beer brand. Mulvaney posted a video promoting Bud Light, featuring a custom-made can with her face on it to commemorate her one-year anniversary of transitioning. The backlash was swift and intense, largely fueled by conservative commentators and consumers who accused Bud Light of “going woke” and alienating their core customer base. Bud Light sales plummeted, and the company faced significant financial repercussions.
The controversy surrounding the Bud Light partnership highlighted the deep divisions and sensitivities surrounding transgender visibility in mainstream culture. Supporters of Mulvaney and the LGBTQ+ community condemned the boycott as transphobic and discriminatory, arguing that it perpetuated harmful stereotypes and contributed to a climate of intolerance. They defended her right to partner with brands and argued that representation matters. Critics argued that Bud Light had alienated its existing customer base by aligning itself with a figure who, in their view, promoted an agenda that conflicted with their values.
Beyond the Bud Light controversy, Dylan Mulvaney has continued to use her platform to advocate for transgender rights and visibility. She has spoken out against anti-trans legislation, participated in LGBTQ+ events, and shared her personal experiences to promote understanding and acceptance. Despite facing online harassment and criticism, she remains a prominent voice in the conversation about gender identity and continues to create content that is both entertaining and informative. Her influence extends beyond social media, making her a significant figure in the broader cultural landscape of LGBTQ+ representation.