Joe Locke and Dylan Mulvaney might’ve just stolen the spotlight at Sabrina Carpenter’s concert in London this weekend. The Heartstopperstar, 21, and beloved TikTok creator, 28, were spotted at BST Hyde Park on Saturday, July 5.
Photos show the duo dancing the night away, having an absolute blast — and yes, I’m wildly jealous. While they’ve never hidden their close friendship, they recently shared a set of sweet Instagram pics, cheekily captioned, “first couples shoot.”
Locke even added a playful “hard launch” in the comments—prompting Modern Family’s Jesse Tyler Ferguson to chime in: “You two… just playing the media like a harp.” And honestly? Guilty as charged—we’re eating it up.
But in case you’re wondering who these two stars are, here’s a quick refresher:
Joe Locke shot to fame as Charlie Spring in Netflix’s Heartstopper, and has since joined the Marvel universe in Agatha All Along and made his Broadway debut in Sweeney Todd. Proudly outspoken, Locke uses his platform to advocate for queer representation and challenge typecasting in the industry.
Dylan Mulvaney is a powerhouse in her own right. A theater-trained actress turned viral content creator, she skyrocketed to fame with her TikTok series Days of Girlhood, documenting her transition with humor and heart. She’s interviewed President Biden, starred in a Fringe musical, dropped her own single, and even penned a memoir. Basically? She’s booked, busy, and beloved.
One thing’s for sure: these two are absolutely thriving — and we love to see it.
Trans Day of Visibility Highlights Resilience and Achievements
Trans Day of Visibility, observed annually on March 31, provides an opportunity for the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate and honor trans and non-binary people worldwide. In a year marked by challenges, including anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in the U.S. and shifts in gender-affirming care policies in the UK, it is crucial to acknowledge both the struggles and the triumphs of the trans community.
Nikki’s Olympic Achievement
Non-binary athlete Nikki Hiltz competed in the 1500m final at the Paris 2024 Olympics, finishing seventh. Hiltz, a middle-distance runner who founded the Pride 5k charity race, used their platform to advocate against what they called “ignorance and hate” directed at trans athletes. The Pride 5k has raised over $172,000 for The Trevor Project since its inception in 2020.
Photo: YouTube
“Anti-trans rhetoric is anti-woman,” Hiltz wrote in an Instagram post during the Olympics. “These people aren’t ‘protecting women’s sports’, they are enforcing rigid gender norms, and anyone who doesn’t fit perfectly into those norms is targeted and vilified.”
Non-Binary Eurovision History
Singer Nemo from Switzerland made Eurovision history in 2024 as the first non-binary winner of the competition.Nemo’s winning track, “The Code,” explores their journey of self-discovery and acceptance of their non-binary identity.
Nemo winning Eurovision 2024. Photo: Shutterstock
In an interview with The Associated Press before the semi-final, Nemo expressed the beauty of being a non-binary artist on a major international stage. “Knowing they like a song where I am unconditionally myself, and I talk about the journey of finding myself and being non-binary, and knowing that it touches them… [is] really beautiful,” Nemo said.
Sarah McBride Makes Waves in Congress
Delaware Democrat Sarah McBride became the first openly transgender member of Congress in January, following the U.S. election.McBride, 34, made history as the first trans person to be sworn into the U.S. House of Representatives and has been a vocal advocate for trans rights.
Sarah McBride sitting down with CBS News Sunday Morning. Photo: CBS
“The Republican party is obsessed with culture war issues,” McBride said in March, criticizing right-wing politicians pushing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. “The American people deserve serious legislators [and] serious elected officials who are focused on bringing people together to deliver real results for the American people.”
Alex Consani Breaks Boundaries in Fashion
Model Alex Consani made fashion history in December by becoming the first openly transgender woman to win Model of the Year at the 2024 Fashion Awards.Consani, 21, had previously broken barriers by becoming one of the first two openly trans models to walk the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. She has also appeared in a Charli XCX music video and walked for designers including Hugo Boss, Burberry, and Chloé.
Photo: Instagram/@alexconsani
In her acceptance speech, Consani acknowledged “those who came before me, specifically the Black trans women who really fought for the space I’m in today – Dominique Jackson, Connie Fleming, Aaron Rose Phillips and countless more who fought for the space that allowed me to flourish today.”
Literary Success with Dylan Mulvaney
Influencer Dylan Mulvaney achieved success with the release of her debut book, “Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer,” in March. The book, which explores her first year of transitioning, became a New York Times bestseller. “They hate to see a trans woman winning,” Mulvaney joked on Instagram after making the bestseller list. “The dolls, we stay winning.”
Amidst rising anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-trans sentiment, trans and non-binary celebrities and activists used their platforms to advocate for the community.
“As trans people our identities have been criminalized, and we found ways to have community, to have joy, and to be ourselves,” Laverne Cox said in an interview discussing political challenges. Elliot Page added, “We are at a time in history where the rights of LGBTQ+ people are being revoked, restricted and eliminated throughout the world, and the effects are devastating.”
Ahead of the highly anticipated premiere of Clean Slate on February 6th on Prime Video, we sat down with @Laverne Cox for an insightful conversation about her new show and the broader cultural moment. In our discussion, Cox reflected on what has been a particularly difficult month for the LGBTQ+ community, offering her perspective in the wake of former President Trump’s recent executive order—a move that has sparked concern and uncertainty. #lgbt#trans#usa#lavernecox#donaldtrump
Trans and non-binary actors continued to increase representation in television and film. While representation remains limited, with trans characters accounting for only 5% of characters in TV and film from 2023 to 2024, their presence is considered crucial. Laverne Cox starred in “Clean Slate,” portraying a trans New Yorker, and trans actor Mary Malone received praise for her role in the Netflix thriller “Missing You.”
Mary Malone in the Netflix series ‘Missing You.’ Photo: Netflix
The Very Mindful, Very Demure Jools Lebron
A TikTok by trans influencer Jools Lebron became a viral sensation, with her “demure” meme gaining significant attention. The word “demure” was even named a “word of the year” by a dictionary. Lebron stated on TikTok that the success of the audio clip enabled her to fund her transition. “One day, I was playing cashier and making videos on my break, and now I’m flying across countries to host events, and I’m gonna be able to finance the rest of my transition,” she said.
Dylan Mulvaney, the trailblazing trans icon and social media star, takes center stage in the March/April 2025 issue of The Advocate, offering a deeply personal look at her rise to fame, the challenges she’s faced, and her reflections on life’s journey. Known for her viral “Days of Girlhood” video series, Mulvaney continues to inspire and advocate for the transgender community, and now, with the release of her memoir Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer, she shares her intimate coming-of-age story with the world.
In a revealing interview with The Advocate’s Mey Rude, Mulvaney opens up about how she’s navigated both success and backlash, including the infamous “Beergate” incident that drew widespread criticism. Despite the challenges, Mulvaney remains grounded in optimism and gratitude, elements that have sustained her throughout her journey. She also discusses a transformative experience involving ayahuasca, a psychedelic journey that played a pivotal role in her personal growth.
Paper Doll Chronicles Her Transformation
In Paper Doll, Mulvaney provides a candid account of her life, from her earliest experiences with girlhood to her public coming out and everything in between. The memoir sheds light on her struggles and triumphs, offering a narrative that resonates with many, particularly trans youth who feel alienated or rejected by society.
“I think my memoir is a reflection of my life as someone who is discovering themselves as I go,” Mulvaney said. “It’s not just about the fun moments or the viral videos—it’s about the real moments, the painful parts, and how I learned to navigate them.”
The book delves into her darkest moments, including the aftermath of the Bud Light backlash, an episode Mulvaney refers to as “Beergate.” In the interview, she discusses how the incident impacted her but also how she managed to emerge from it with an even stronger sense of self.
Staying Optimistic Amidst Backlash
One of the most striking elements of Mulvaney’s interview is her unwavering commitment to optimism. Despite the challenges she’s faced, she attributes much of her resilience to her optimistic perspective on life.
“I think that I am an optimist to the craziest extent,” she shared. “My earnestness has kept me alive, and it’s what keeps me going… I actually think optimism is the coolest thing in the world. And I think the reason that I am around is because I surround myself with people who are wildly optimistic.”
Her approach to optimism has made her a beacon of hope for many in the LGBTQ+ community, especially those facing their own struggles with identity and acceptance.
The Power of Vulnerability
A significant theme in Mulvaney’s memoir is the idea of vulnerability as a means of healing. Writing the book was not only cathartic for her but also a way to share her experiences in a deeper and more meaningful way than through her social media posts.
“Writing the memoir ended up being very cathartic and very healing because I think I got to share parts of my relationship to that time and to the media in a way that I didn’t feel safe to online,” Mulvaney explained. “And in a way that felt very vulnerable. I think had I just released a book that was only related to those 365 days, I don’t think it would have been the right thing.”
Her ability to be open about her struggles has helped her connect with fans and followers, many of whom look up to her as a source of inspiration.
Embracing Her Role as a Role Model
Mulvaney’s role as a public figure has also evolved as she increasingly sees herself as a mother figure to her fans. Her desire to support and uplift others is evident in her words and actions.
“If I can be a part of someone’s mother Rolodex, sign me up, I’m in,” she said, reflecting on how she sees herself in relation to the trans community.
Her support for the LGBTQ+ community is unwavering, and her memoir is a powerful testament to her commitment to being a role model for those in need of guidance and encouragement.
Dylan Mulvaney, the award-winning actress and trans activist, has reflected on how Broadway legend Kristin Chenoweth played a pivotal role in helping her realize her musical theatre dreams. The actress, who will make her West End debut later this year, shared a heartfelt story about how the Wicked star’s encouragement as a young teen gave her the confidence to pursue a career on the stage.
In an appearance on MTV UK’s Queerpiphany, Mulvaney opened up about her formative years and how she found solace and identity in the musical theatre world, particularly through the Wicked soundtrack. Mulvaney, who came out as trans in her teens, recalled how listening to the Wicked cast album became a way for her to navigate her identity while growing up.
Music as a Safe Haven for a Young Trans Person
“I would listen to the Wicked cast album on repeat, and Kristin was the Glinda on that album,” Mulvaney recalled. She explained that Chenoweth had already left the role of Glinda by the time she was listening to the recording, but the Broadway star still held a special place in her heart. At the time, Chenoweth was performing in the musical Promises, Promises on Broadway, which became another source of inspiration for Mulvaney.
The 12-year-old Mulvaney, deeply captivated by Chenoweth’s performance and personality, decided to write her a fan letter. In the letter, she even asked the iconic star for a coffee date. “At this point, I’m probably 12, as a 12-year-old does,” Mulvaney joked. To her surprise, she received a response that would change the course of her life.
“I get an email that was like, ‘Kristin has never received a better letter in her life. No, she can’t go to coffee with you, but she’d like to bring you backstage at Promises, Promises,’” Mulvaney shared.
A Life-Changing Moment with Kristin Chenoweth
Mulvaney continued her story, recounting the magical experience of meeting Chenoweth backstage at the Broadway show. The star welcomed her and her family with warmth and enthusiasm. “We go see the show, she brings us backstage, and she’s like, ‘You’re going to sing with me one day and you’re going to do this with your life, I already know it.’”
Chenoweth’s words left a lasting impact on Mulvaney, not only fueling her passion for musical theatre but also influencing her personal journey with faith and identity. The star’s message of encouragement extended beyond her career, touching on Mulvaney’s struggle with coming out as a trans woman and finding peace with her faith.
“She basically was like, ‘Go with God and do musical theatre, and I will see you on the stage,’” Mulvaney said. The words of validation gave Mulvaney the strength to continue pursuing her dreams despite the challenges she would later face in her adolescence, including grappling with her gender identity.
The Power of Faith and Theatre
Mulvaney reflected on how important Chenoweth’s influence was during her journey of self-discovery. “Even when I was struggling with my identity and coming out and navigating my puberty and my adolescence, I always came back to theatre,” Mulvaney said. For her, the stage provided not only an outlet for self-expression but a sense of belonging that transcended the challenges of growing up trans.
The Wicked soundtrack, in particular, became a constant source of comfort for Mulvaney. The original cast album, which featured Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, offered a refuge during difficult times, as it resonated with her emotional and spiritual journey.
“Kristin helped make that idea possible,” Mulvaney said, adding that the star’s unique connection to faith and the LGBTQ+ community had a profound influence on her own understanding of spirituality. “What really inspired me was that she has such a unique, special relationship with a higher power and faith, and she loves queer people, but she also loves church.”
Embracing Both Identity and Faith
Mulvaney, who grew up in a religious environment, revealed that Chenoweth’s example of loving both her faith and the LGBTQ+ community helped her reconcile these two important parts of her own life. “I grew up very religious, and so for me, she kind of was the thing that felt like I was allowed to be both and that maybe a God could love me.”
Chenoweth’s combination of faith and love for queer individuals provided Mulvaney with a sense of acceptance that was not always present in other aspects of her life. The idea that she could embrace both her spiritual side and her identity as a trans woman was transformative, giving her the strength to continue living authentically and pursue her dreams without fear.
Looking Ahead to West End Debut
Now, as she prepares for her West End debut later this year, Mulvaney continues to be inspired by the lessons she learned from the Broadway stars who helped shape her journey. Her upcoming performance is a testament to the power of following one’s dreams and finding support in unexpected places.
Mulvaney’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of representation and the impact that encouragement from mentors can have, especially for young people navigating their identities. From a 12-year-old fan writing letters to Broadway stars, to a trans activist making her mark in the theatre world, Mulvaney’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of art and human connection.
As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, it’s clear that Mulvaney will continue to use her platform to inspire others, just as Kristin Chenoweth inspired her. The dream of musical theatre that seemed impossible for a young Mulvaney has now become a reality, and her story is one of perseverance, hope, and the importance of finding community.
Influencer Dylan Mulvaney has a dream as bold and bright as Elle Woods’ signature pink wardrobe. At the South by Southwest Film Festival, Mulvaney shared her ultimate aspiration: to shine in a trans-inclusive remake of the iconic film Legally Blonde.
From Wicked Wishes to Legally Blonde Ambitions
While the dream of playing Glinda in Wicked sparkles in her heart, Mulvaney’s “dream dream” is to step into the stylish shoes of Elle Woods, the character Reese Witherspoon brought to life. But there’s a twist—Mulvaney envisions a version where Elle and other key characters like Emmett and Paulette are trans, bringing a fresh and impactful perspective to the beloved story.
Mulvaney believes casting trans actors in classic roles can profoundly shift the narrative without altering the script. It’s a way to enrich the story, making it more powerful and resonant with today’s audiences, highlighting the transformative power of inclusivity in storytelling.
A Fan Favorite Reimagined
Since its debut, Legally Blonde has captured hearts with its humor and heart. The tale of Elle Woods, who heads to Harvard Law to chase love but finds her true calling, has inspired many. Its adaptation into a musical brought the story to even more fans, including a groundbreaking performance by trans actress Iz Hesketh in London, setting a precedent for trans representation in the role.
Mulvaney’s Vision: A New Narrative for Elle
Mulvaney’s dream of a trans-led Legally Blonde reimagines the narrative, offering a fresh lens through which we can view Elle’s journey. It’s a testament to the evolving entertainment landscape, where diversity and representation can breathe new life into familiar stories.
The Road Ahead
With her vision set and her determination clear, Dylan Mulvaney is on a path that could change the face of musical theater and film. Her dream of a trans Legally Blonde isn’t just about changing characters; it’s about changing perceptions, opening hearts, and celebrating the diversity of human experience. As the entertainment world watches, many cheer her on, eager to see where her dreams and talents will lead.
Ticking Off Dreams
Mulvaney isn’t just dreaming; she’s achieving. In 2024, she performed with Glee star Chris Colfer and met pop icon Lady Gaga. These milestones mark significant steps toward her ultimate goals in the entertainment world.
Dylan Mulvaney is throwing a big celebration for her second “girlhood” anniversary with a catchy new song called “Days of Girlhood.” It’s all about the fun and beauty of being a girl, and we’re here for it!
From TikToks to Tunes
When Dylan opened up about her journey, she used TikTok to let everyone in on her life changes. Her “Days of Girlhood” videos were a hit, showing her journey and all the new things she was experiencing.
Overcoming Challenges
Dylan’s had her share of tough times in the spotlight, like a big fuss over a beer ad that led to extreme backlash. But she kept her head high, focusing on spreading love and support for the trans community, proving she’s all about positivity.
A Song to Remember
“Days of Girlhood” isn’t just any song. It’s a celebration of Dylan’s journey and a big high-five to her own femininity and happiness. She even said the song was inspired by those feel-good romantic comedies from the early 2000s. How cool is that?
Dylan chose her transition anniversary to drop this track, teaming up again with the Trevor Project to spread even more love. She’s super thankful for her fans who’ve been there through it all, and she hopes her song brings a smile to everyone’s face.
Standing Strong with Friends
Dylan also got a shoutout on International Women’s Day, posing with none other than Lady Gaga. Some folks weren’t too kind about it, but Gaga stood up, calling out the hate for what it was and supporting Dylan all the way.
Here’s to More Girlhood
We’re all excited to see what’s next for Dylan Mulvaney. With her spirit and joy, the next 20 years of girlhood are looking pretty bright. Way to go, Dylan!
Dylan Mulvaney is an actress, singer, comedian, content creator, and strong transgender advocate. She rose to stardom for her popular series, “Days of Girlhood,” which documents her transition. Since launching last year, “Days of Girlhood” has broken boundaries on TikTok and has continued to spread joy and inspiration to the LGBTQ+ community.
However, Mulvaney’s advocacy goes far beyond sharing daily updates on social media. Last September, they were invited to speak with President Joe Biden about the current state of trans rights in the United States. “I try not to let the Internet’s words hurt me or my spirit, but do you know what does hurt?” she said. “Seeing people in power and authority figures creating laws and bills that are actively trying to harm us trans humans, especially trans children.”
She has consistently stood as a steadfast ally and dedicated contributor to The Trevor Project. In March, she orchestrated a remarkable fundraising effort during her Day 365 Live! extravaganza, amassing nearly $200,000. This extraordinary event, a one-night-only cabaret performance held at New York’s legendary Rainbow Room, served as the crowning achievement of her “Days of Girlhood” series. The live-streamed spectacle captivated millions of fans worldwide, and every dollar generated during this occasion was dedicated to advancing The Trevor Project’s critical mission to combat LGBTQ youth suicide.
Dylan Mulvaney Accepts Award
Mulvaney joins past award recipients Janelle Monáe and Lil Nas X, who use their platforms to challenge the status quo and create a safer, more inclusive world for LGBTQ young people to thrive as their authentic selves.
“I am deeply honored to accept The Trevor Project’s Suicide Prevention Advocate of the Year award,” said Dylan. “Trevor’s life-saving work holds a special place in my heart because it represents a lifeline for so many who are struggling with their identity and may not feel accepted as their authentic self. To anyone feeling lost or scared, I want you to know that you are so incredibly loved and there is light after the moments of darkness. Always remember that you are never alone, you are perfect just the way you are, and organizations like The Trevor Project are here to provide a safe space to talk whenever you need, 24/7.
“I am so proud to be a part of such a strong and beautiful community that fights tirelessly for a brighter, more inclusive future, and this award stands for all of us. Let’s continue to work together to uplift and empower LGBTQ young people and create a world where no young person ever feels that hope is out of reach.”
“In a world where LGBTQ young people too often face adversity and discrimination, Dylan Mulvaney stands as a source of light and hope, reminding us that there is strength in unity and power in vulnerability,” said Kevin Wong, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Communications, and Content.“Through her ongoing advocacy work and unapologetic celebration of their trans identity, Dylan is an exemplary possibility model for LGBTQ young people to envision a world for themselves where they can be happy, successful, and thrive openly and authentically.”
If you or someone you know needs help or support, The Trevor Project’s trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 18664887386, via chat at TheTrevorProject.org/Get-Help, or by texting START to 678678.
