Actress-turned-talk-show-host Drew Barrymore heaped a whirlwind of mockery on Tuesday when she kneeled to Dylan Mulvaney, a man living as a woman, while encouraging him to become a transgender activist.
The incident came as the former E.T. star took to her knees as the two discussed transgender activism.
“Watching your journey and being such a huge fan of yours, I think there is a way to be taught and educated to be open minds and there are those who can and I think you have that gift. I really do,” said Barrymore.
Mulvaney cited his desire to preach about transgenderism through comedy.
“I’m a musical theater major,” responded Mulvaney. “Activism scares the heck out of me, especially when you come out as trans, there is this automatic girl scout patch that gets put on you. I think my way in is through comedy.”
Mulvaney then plugged his “old Hollywood-style Broadway show” at the legendary Rainbow Room that will feature cabaret.
Dylan Mulvaney at BirdyFest and the screening of “Catherine Called Birdy,” held at The Grove Rooftop on October 7, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Birdie Thompson/Variety via Getty Images)
“I can’t wait to watch it and I can’t wait to continue to watch your journey and it is such a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance and I hope it can turn into an ongoing thing,” said Barrymore as the two excitedly hugged like two schoolgirls at a slumber party.
When asked to give advice to others on how to navigate their identity, Mulvaney advised people to hold on to the best “parts” of themselves.
“If I was able to hold onto those, even earlier, the possibilities are limitless, so try to hold onto those things,” said Mulvaney.
Mulvaney then recalled a story of meeting a girl “in line for women’s restroom” who said how she and her mother would watch his videos at night as a “routine” to learn more about transgender issues.
“Her mom started crying,” said Mulvaney. “I think trans and queer youth are some of the strongest humans alive. The fact that are pushing through to be themselves, but I think the parents are just as important, so I got to thank that mom just for supporting their child and loving their child.”
Various internet personalities and social commentators mocked the interview, with some saying it disrespects the very concept of womanhood given that Drew Barrymore went to her knees for a man.