The BBC's adaptation of Paris Lees's autobiography faced the common struggle of finding the right lead actor, similar to Cher's casting challenges. After considering various candidates, they chose Ellis Howard, whose cinematic quality resonated with Lees. Despite her public successes as a trailblazing trans figure, Lees reflects on a brutal early life marked by bullying and abuse, which she later recognized as violations of trust. Howard's portrayal aims to authentically capture this complexity, bringing a subtle and daring performance that honors Lees's formative experiences.
I just knew, the moment I saw Ellis, that this cheeky, cheeky person could do it. We were looking for a trans person, but I had a feeling.
When people are vulnerable, when they're told they're worthless, that they're almost half a person, you seek validation in the wrong places.
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