BBC Three Releases Transgender Coming-of-Age Drama What It Feels Like for a Girl

BBC Three's eight-part drama What It Feels Like for a Girl, based on Paris Lees's memoir, explores the coming-of-age story of Byron, a transgender teenager growing up in working-class Nottinghamshire in 2000. Portrayed by Ellis Howard, the series delves into Byron's struggles with family rejection, bullying, and involvement in sex work, set against the backdrop of a nostalgic early 2000s Midlands town and the LGBTQ+ underground scene. Critics praise the show for its sharp writing, poignant acting, and nuanced portrayal of the intersection between class, gender identity, and sexuality, while acknowledging its mix of humor, heartbreak, and occasional discomfort. The drama avoids overt political messaging but arrives amid contentious debates on gender identity, with some criticism over its framing of transgender experiences. Through Byron's journey, the series highlights themes of acceptance, self-expression, and the cost of finding a supportive community, making it a binge-worthy and emotionally complex portrait of adolescence. The show combines a gritty narrative with brassy music and fast editing, reminiscent of earlier edgy youth dramas, contributing to its distinctive style and impact.