Overview

In this episode, we delve into the evolution of trans representation in reality TV, starting with an exploration of the 2005 docuseries Trans Generation, showcasing the authentic experiences of four college students transitioning, in sharp contrast with earlier portrayal of trans subjectsin There's Something About Miriam. The discussion then shifts to Zeke Smith, a prominent trans contestant from Survivor, who shares insights on navigating the pressures of production while maintaining control over his narrative and strategy. The episode further examines the emotional and psychological ramifications of reality TV on trans visibility, addressing the backlash against increased representation and highlighting the critical need for authentic portrayals to advance trans equality, ultimately underscoring the importance of seeing trans people in everyday life through the lens of media.

Notes

Introduction to Trans Representation in Reality TV (00:00 - 08:59)

• Introduces Trans Generation, a 2005 docuseries about four college students transitioning
• Highlights TJ, a Fulbright scholar from Cyprus transitioning at Michigan State
• Contrasts with earlier trans representation in There's Something About Miriam (2003)
• Discusses the evolution of trans representation in reality TV from 2003 to 2005

️Zeke Smith's Survivor Experience (08:59 - 18:51)

• Zeke Smith discusses his experience on Survivor as a trans contestant
• Highlights the self-determination aspect of being trans and how it related to his Survivor strategy
• Describes the pressure from production to “storyize” his identity, which he resisted
• Explains how he leveraged media savvy to maintain control over his narrative
• Recounts being invited back for a second season immediately after his first

Impact of Reality TV on Trans Representation (18:51 - 29:49)

• Discusses the emotional and psychological impact of being on Survivor
• Explores the broader implications of trans visibility in mainstream media
• Reflects on the backlash against increased trans representation
• Emphasizes the importance of authentic visibility in advancing trans equality
• Concludes with the significance of seeing trans people “walking around in the world” through reality TV

Guests

Zeke Smith (he/him) is a writer and comedian living in Los Angeles. His writing has been featured on The Blacklist and in The Hollywood Reporter. Zeke is well-known for his queer and trans advocacy stemming from two seasons on Survivor.  He serves on the board of directors for GLAAD.

Are you ready for the next best pop culture podcast on all things reality TV? Get Queer is here. 

A product of Xtra magazine, Get Queer questions and celebrates LGBTQ2S+ representation in pop culture. For the show's first season, reality TV fan and host Mel Woods takes you through a candid analysis of unscripted television’s history in a bid to answer a central question: “How has reality TV shaped queer identity in the community, in the world and in the mirror?"

Through interviews with stars, experts and fan favourites, including Zeke Smith (Survivor), Wes Culwell (Boy Meets Boy), and Racquel Chevremont (The Real Housewives of New York City), Get Queer takes listeners behind the scenes of reality TV’s most shocking and compelling moments to unravel how they were made and their lasting impact.

Show Credits

Host Mel Woods (they/them) is a journalist, editor and content creator. They are currently the Senior Editor Audience Engagement at  Xtra, a digital magazine covering culture and politics through an LGBTQ2S+ lens. They grew up in Red Deer, Alberta and now live in Vancouver with their partner and two beloved cats.

Producer Daniel MacIvor (he/him) is a writer, producer, director and performer. They are currently Creative Consultant with Pink Triangle Press and Artistic Director of reWork a Toronto-based production company for new theatre and film.

Cover photography by Celina Koops