Jimmy Fallon, the host of “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,” recently sparked controversy among fans of trans actor Hunter Schafer.
During an interview, Fallon referred to Schafer as “bud,” which was perceived by some viewers as insensitive.
Schafer discusses Hunger Games role on Fallon’s show
Hunter Schafer, aged 24, visited Fallon’s show to promote her new film, “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.”
Schafer, assigned male at birth but identifies as female, discussed her childhood fascination with “The Hunger Games” franchise.
She shared a childhood Halloween experience, saying, “For Halloween, I was obsessed with how the capitol people were in costume and made my own costume.” Fallon, responding with enthusiasm, said: “Oh bud, it’s unbelievable! This is really cool; now you’re in Hunger Games — as a capitol person!”
Controversy erupts over Fallon’s use of ‘bud’ in addressing Schafer
Fallon’s use of “bud” drew criticism from some viewers who considered the term masculine-coded. This controversy was amplified on social media.
One now-deleted tweet featuring the interview clip read: “Jimmy Fallon calling Hunter Schafer ‘bud’ I am going to [redacted].” This tweet and its sentiment were echoed across thousands of shares and comments.
Critics challenge Fallon’s language, call it ‘disrespectful’
Critics argued that Fallon’s speech was inappropriate and disrespectful. One Twitter user stated: “As if I didn’t have reason enough to hate Fallon, he takes this opportunity to show that he doesn’t see Hunter as the beautiful, immaculate queen sitting before him.”
The same user highlighted to their cisgender audience: “To my cis readers, I hope you don’t see this as an overreaction—bud/buddy is unquestionably male-coded.”
Backlash on Fallon’s ‘bud’ remark to trans actress Hunter Schafer
Another tweet further emphasized the point: “A slight minority of people might say it in a gender-neutral way. But you obviously know it’s used exclusively for men most of the time. Even if Hunter isn’t bothered, it’s still gross and telling of how Fallon views trans women.”
The debate also included personal experiences from others in the trans community. One tweeted: “I literally can’t stand it when people call me bud. It’s so degrading, and it really shows that they don’t see me(or Hunter or any trans woman rly) as a woman!! Bud isn’t something you say to girls. I’m sorry.”
Fallon’s history of gendered language with celebrity guests
This is not the first time Fallon’s language choices have been scrutinized. He previously addressed Ariana Grande as “pal” and Jennifer Lawrence, the original star of “The Hunger Games,” as both “dude” and “man.”
The controversy underscores the ongoing conversation about gender sensitivity and the importance of language in respecting individuals’ identities.
Hunter’s case highlights push for inclusivity, awareness in media
The reaction from Schafer’s fans and supporters reflects a broader societal push for awareness and inclusivity, especially in media and entertainment.
As public figures, talk show hosts like Fallon are often scrutinized for their interactions with guests, especially those from marginalized groups.
This incident with Hunter Schafer serves as a reminder of the impact of words and the evolving expectations of public discourse in a society that is increasingly aware of gender identity and expression.
