Trans-Jenner Research Paper
Joanne Chan (SID: 25308125)
Professor Jackson
MEDIAST N10: Introduction to Media Studies
4 July 2016
Trans-Jenner: The Creation of Cait
America’s obsession with celebrities ― people who attract public interest through industry manipulations, charm or talent (O’Shaughnessy, Stadler, 424) ― and tendency to view them as the epitome of American success give high profile celebrities an ability to reinforce societal values and influence perception. With a combined net worth of over $300 million, the Kardashian-Jenner family serves as one such entity as every member is capable of commanding an incredible following. Kim Kardashian alone holds the record for the most followers on Instagram with 75.4 million followers (Kardashian). On top of 43 product …show more content…
Soon after the release of her Vanity Fair cover, Jenner assured the public that she aimed to use her platform to address issues facing the transgender community. In an interview with The Advocate, Jenner revealed that her new mission in life was to “promote the welfare of transgender people” (Breen). Despite her intentions, Jenner faced tremendous backlash from the trans community. Trans advocates argued Jenner was overemphasizing femininity and reinforcing the deeply entrenched stereotypes of women by emphasizing the cosmetic difficulties she faces. Elinor Burkett of The New York Times eloquently asserted that “Nail polish does not a woman make” when Jenner revealed that she looked forward most to openly wearing nail polish. In I am Cait, the cinematography portrays Jenner as any other cisgender celebrity, focusing on her nail collection and beauty products instead of stressing issues facing the trans community. As Jenner desperately tries to make a point on bullying, the camera pans away from her to focus on her manicure (Maerz). The superficiality of the show is disappointing to transgenders who were anticipating the increased awareness and support promised by Jenner. However, it is worthy to note that without feminine elements, I am Cait may not have come to fruition. Jenner’s capabilities as a celebrity are limited by how effective she is in generating profit for media companies such as E!. Due to the controversial nature of the trans community, reliance on bringing trans awareness does not align with the image of E! nor the demographic of its viewers. Jenner’s ability to continue trans awareness is based on a symbiotic relationship with E!. Jenner is able to continue trans awareness as long as I am Cait pertains to the viewership of E! by involving materialistic
Professor Jackson
MEDIAST N10: Introduction to Media Studies
4 July 2016
Trans-Jenner: The Creation of Cait
America’s obsession with celebrities ― people who attract public interest through industry manipulations, charm or talent (O’Shaughnessy, Stadler, 424) ― and tendency to view them as the epitome of American success give high profile celebrities an ability to reinforce societal values and influence perception. With a combined net worth of over $300 million, the Kardashian-Jenner family serves as one such entity as every member is capable of commanding an incredible following. Kim Kardashian alone holds the record for the most followers on Instagram with 75.4 million followers (Kardashian). On top of 43 product …show more content…
Soon after the release of her Vanity Fair cover, Jenner assured the public that she aimed to use her platform to address issues facing the transgender community. In an interview with The Advocate, Jenner revealed that her new mission in life was to “promote the welfare of transgender people” (Breen). Despite her intentions, Jenner faced tremendous backlash from the trans community. Trans advocates argued Jenner was overemphasizing femininity and reinforcing the deeply entrenched stereotypes of women by emphasizing the cosmetic difficulties she faces. Elinor Burkett of The New York Times eloquently asserted that “Nail polish does not a woman make” when Jenner revealed that she looked forward most to openly wearing nail polish. In I am Cait, the cinematography portrays Jenner as any other cisgender celebrity, focusing on her nail collection and beauty products instead of stressing issues facing the trans community. As Jenner desperately tries to make a point on bullying, the camera pans away from her to focus on her manicure (Maerz). The superficiality of the show is disappointing to transgenders who were anticipating the increased awareness and support promised by Jenner. However, it is worthy to note that without feminine elements, I am Cait may not have come to fruition. Jenner’s capabilities as a celebrity are limited by how effective she is in generating profit for media companies such as E!. Due to the controversial nature of the trans community, reliance on bringing trans awareness does not align with the image of E! nor the demographic of its viewers. Jenner’s ability to continue trans awareness is based on a symbiotic relationship with E!. Jenner is able to continue trans awareness as long as I am Cait pertains to the viewership of E! by involving materialistic