'A cry from the council estate' - the trans teen drama that pulls no punches

BBC Three's new drama series 'What It Feels Like For A Girl' offers a powerful and unflinching look at the life of Byron, a 15-year-old teenager growing up in a working-class town near Nottingham who is exploring their gender identity. The show is inspired by the autobiography of Paris Lees, a trans writer and activist, and it captures the raw and often difficult experiences of a trans youth navigating a world that can be both hostile and confusing. Byron's journey is marked by moments of joy and friendship, especially through their connection with a group called The Fallen Divas, who become a chosen family offering support and acceptance. However, the series does not shy away from the darker realities Byron faces, including involvement in the exploitative sex work industry and a dangerous relationship with a local drug dealer named Liam. This relationship highlights issues of grooming and abuse, showing the complex and sometimes harmful dynamics that vulnerable young people can encounter.

The timing of the drama's release is significant, coming shortly after a controversial court ruling that defined 'woman' and 'sex' in the 2010 Equality Act as referring to biological sex. This decision has sparked heated debates and divided opinions, with some celebrating the ruling and others, including many in the trans community, expressing disappointment and concern. The show's title itself has become a point of contention, as it is taken from Paris Lees' autobiography and challenges traditional ideas about gender. Hannah Jones, who plays Sasha, a sharp-tongued trans sex worker in the series, acknowledges how the show's meaning has shifted in light of current events, emphasizing the diverse experiences within the trans community. The drama confronts these issues head-on, presenting a narrative that is both personal and political.

Beyond the exploration of gender identity, the series delves deeply into the intersection of class and survival. Paris Lees has spoken about how her working-class background shaped her experiences and how different her life became after moving into a middle-class environment. The show reflects this by portraying the harsh realities of growing up poor and trans, where survival often means making difficult choices. Jake Dunn, who plays Liam, brings complexity to his character, showing him as both vulnerable and threatening, a product of his environment who exerts a coercive influence over Byron. The drama balances its gritty subject matter with moments of humor and heart, capturing the resilience and humanity of its characters. Byron's relationship with their grandmother provides a rare source of unconditional love and support, highlighting the importance of family in the midst of chaos. The series also explores the concept of code switching, illustrating how Byron adapts their behavior to fit into different spaces, a reflection of the broader challenges faced by those who live between worlds. 'What It Feels Like For A Girl' is a timely and important drama that offers insight into the lives of trans youth, the impact of social class, and the ongoing struggles for acceptance and identity in today's society.