Transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney expressed concerns in a recent interview about potential violence stemming from the backlash against his partnership with Bud Light. He mentioned feeling “scared” of real-world consequences after facing criticism from conservatives.
During his discussion on the Monica Lewinsky podcast, which addressed the so-called “Beergate,” Mulvaney reflected on the controversy that arose after Bud Light sent a can featuring his face to commemorate his “365 Days of Girlhood.” The collaboration ignited significant backlash, leading some conservative figures and country music artists to call for a boycott.
In the conversation, Lewinsky pointed out an instance where singer Kid Rock shot at dozens of Bud Light cans, declaring, “F— Bud Light and f— Anheuser-Busch!” Mulvaney commented that far-right media turned the partnership into a major issue, questioning why transgender individuals were promoting a beer brand.
He initially found the reaction somewhat amusing, but as the situation escalated, he grew concerned about the actual threats influencing others. Mulvaney noted, “It wasn’t about being scared of a country singer; it was about the people listening.” He emphasized how the rhetoric from certain media outlets could incite real violence.
In reflecting on the negative response, Mulvaney drew a parallel to the character Elphaba from the musical “Wicked,” suggesting that society tends to need a common adversary, evident in their targeting of transgender people like himself.
Report from January 2024 indicated Bud Light’s sales had dropped nearly 30% after this incident, marking a significant clash of corporate cultures and ending the brand’s run as America’s best-selling beer.
Recently, Mulvaney faced renewed backlash after being cast as Anne Boleyn in the Broadway musical “Six.” Nevertheless, he defended the decision to feature an all-female cast, saying that he would willingly endure scrutiny to return to the theater he loves.
