Elliot Page Discusses Challenges in Hollywood After Coming Out as Transgender

Transgender actor Elliot Page shared insights on his career changes post-transition during an appearance on the “On Film… with Kevin McCarthy” podcast. He revealed that after appearing in Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster “The Odyssey,” acting opportunities became scarce because Hollywood perceived him differently after his public coming out in 2020.

Page reflected on the differences in his career before and after his transition. He noted the potential need to take a proactive approach in developing projects and collaborating with filmmakers. “I was seen in a certain way before, and it’s different now,” Page stated. “So maybe there is something to reaching out to people and trying to create projects that way. But it’s a little tricky for me to get cast now, for obvious, pretty obvious reasons.” He humorously referred to his nationality, calling it “The Canadian thing.”

Despite the challenges, Page remains eager to continue acting. He expressed feeling more comfortable in his performances since his transition. “I feel like I could maybe do some of my best work now,” he declared, emphasizing the fortune of having played fantastic roles in exceptional projects.

Page’s role as Greek soldier Sinon in “The Odyssey” prompted controversy before the film’s release, with critics alleging that Nolan incorporated “woke” politics into the classic tale. Nonetheless, the film achieved significant box-office success, grossing over $1.5 billion worldwide by early September 2026.

Lisa Cusack, president of the Don’t L.A. My Burbank PAC, commented on Hollywood’s broader financial pressures in an interview with Fox News Digital. She suggested that studios should focus less on political messaging and more on delivering entertainment that audiences desire. “Hollywood might skew as left as it gets, but the industry is struggling right now and can’t afford to push woke politics that lose at the box office,” Cusack remarked.

Page appeared in “The Odyssey” alongside notable cast members including Lupita Nyong’o and Travis Scott, both of whom faced scrutiny for their roles. Despite these challenges, the film emerged as one of 2026’s greatest theatrical achievements.

The broader film industry experienced a mixed year in 2026. Although domestic box-office revenue reached $6.2 billion by August, marking a 15% rise from 2025, overall ticket sales were below pre-pandemic levels.