Thursday, January 29, 2015
What’s going on with Bruce Jenner, and is it wrong to ask?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/
By now, you may have seen a few tabloid headlines about Bruce Jenner, carefully alluding to his “changed appearance” or “new look.” The patriarch of the Kardashian family and ex-husband of Kris Jenner has lately made some certain style choices. His hair is long and highlighted. He’s sported a French manicure. He wears diamond earrings and seemingly some lip gloss.
To read these kinds of gossipy details on sites like TMZ can feel uncomfortably invasive for a casual reader. These stories seem to be implying something about a public figure’s deeply personal choices. Even in a world where TV shows centered on transgender characters win major awards and acclaim, isn’t it far too wrong to speculate about someone’s gender identity?
But when the personal and private journey appears to be fodder for a reality show, all bets are off. So, pull up a chair — let’s talk about Bruce Jenner.
On Friday, US Weekly’s new cover story will report that Jenner, 65, “is taking steps to disclose what multiple sources describe as his wish to transition from male to female.” The magazine says that Jenner’s announcement will be for the cameras, as he’s currently filming an E! reality show documenting “full transformation.” TMZ also reported the same news. Variety confirmed the show is in very early development, with E! public relations planning to meet with GLAAD to discuss. E!, which airs “Keeping Up With the Kardashians” and its spin-offs on which Jenner stars with his family, declined to comment.
This particular US Weekly article, which goes into depth about Jenner’s choice and his family’s support, is significant because of the magazine’s cozy relationship with the Kardashians. Kim, Kourtney, Khloe and the whole family frequently appear on the cover and Web site. And in return, they tip off the mag about bits of news that will get lots of readers: Kourtney’s pregnancy, Khloe’s break-up, Kim and Kanye’s wedding invitation. In other words, the magazine wouldn’t risk printing something this personal — and false — about one of its moneymakers.
The other tipping point this week was a surprisingly candid, if vague, interview that Kim gave to “Entertainment Tonight.” When asked if Jenner was “going through something,” Kim responded pleasantly that, “I think Bruce should tell his story his way.”
“Bruce is very happy, the happiest I’ve ever seen him. And he’s, you know, our dad, so we support him no matter what,” Kim said. “And I think when the time’s right, he’ll talk about whatever he wants to talk about. I just feel like that’s really his journey to talk about.”
Labels:
Bruce Jenner,
Kim Kardashian,
Reality,
TMZ,
Transgender,
US Weekly
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