Annette Bening, renowned actress and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has provided a heartfelt glimpse into her personal journey, revealing how her “brilliant” transgender son, Stephen Ira, has profoundly impacted her life. In a candid conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Bening shared her thoughts on Stephen’s remarkable journey and discussed her steadfast commitment to advocating for LGBTQ+ equality, even in the face of growing misinformation and hostility from conservative factions.
Stephen, now 31, came out as transgender during his teenage years, a decision that was met with Bening’s unwavering support. She lauds his intellectual prowess, describing him as a “highly literary person,” and proudly mentions his recently published poem. Bening’s admiration for Stephen’s achievements and resilience shines through as she discusses his contributions to literary circles, noting his presence in prestigious publications such as The Paris Review.
In reflecting on her experience as a parent navigating her son’s transition, Bening acknowledges the challenges that accompanied the journey. “I didn’t always know what to do, and I didn’t always make the right choices because of my own ignorance, but we got through it,” she shares. This openness about personal growth and learning underscores the significance of acknowledging and supporting LGBTQ+ family members.
Bening’s advocacy extends beyond her immediate family, as she actively raises her voice for LGBTQ+ rights in a world that still grapples with prejudice. With a keen understanding of the power of empathy and personal connections, she expresses her desire for more individuals to have transgender family members. “Once somebody you love is trans, then you get it,” she asserts, highlighting the transformative impact of close relationships.
The actress also admires notable figures who have dedicated themselves to the LGBTQ+ cause. Bening acknowledges the exceptional contributions of gay actor Ian McKellen, who has paved the way for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance through his advocacy and openness about his own identity.
In addition to her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, Bening is also a dedicated activist on a range of issues, including abortion rights and workers’ rights. Her recent appointment as the chair of the board for the Entertainment Community Fund underscores her commitment to supporting performing artists in need, particularly during challenging times such as strikes within the entertainment industry.
While Bening’s advocacy encompasses a wide array of causes, her unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights remains a central theme, fueled by her personal journey as a mother and her recognition of the profound impact that diverse identities can have on enriching understanding and empathy.
In the midst of her work and advocacy, Bening eagerly anticipates her upcoming film project, “Nyad,” where she portrays lesbian swimming champion Diana Nyad. However, due to the ongoing strikes, union members like Bening are unable to promote their projects publicly.
As Annette Bening continues to champion for equality and understanding, her personal narrative underscores the importance of embracing diversity and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights in a world that still contends with prejudice and misinformation.