TL;DR
- BBC’s queer drama debuts in the US
- Available on Prime Video for Pride Month
- Follows 15-year-old Byron’s journey
- Celebrated for its honest LGBTQ portrayal
- Features a diverse ensemble cast
Hold onto your rainbow flags, America! The BBC’s groundbreaking queer drama, What It Feels Like for a Girl, has officially made its way across the pond, landing on Prime Video just in time for Pride Month. Talk about perfect timing!
This five-time BAFTA TV award-nominated series first aired on BBC Three in June 2025 and quickly became a sensation, earning accolades and recognition on a global scale. Adapted from the memoir of Paris Lees, the show follows the tumultuous journey of 15-year-old Byron, played by the talented Ellis Howard, as he navigates the complexities of gender identity and sexuality in the vibrant yet challenging landscape of 2000s Nottingham.
Critics and viewers alike have praised What It Feels Like for a Girl for its raw and honest portrayal of queer and trans experiences. With a large LGBTQ+ ensemble cast that includes the likes of Hannah Jones, Laquarn Lewis, and Alex Thomas-Smith, the series has become a beacon of representation in British television.
At the Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards 2025, both writer Paris Lees and leading actor Ellis Howard took home the coveted Television Award, presented by none other than Boots star Max Parker. “Everyone who worked on this project really cared about it and brought so much energy,” Lees said during her acceptance speech. And can we just say, what an inspiring message for all the young people out there struggling with their identities? “Nobody gets to decide who they are. You decide who you are. And we’re not going to let the bastards win,” she declared, leaving the audience in awe.
Howard also took a moment to honor the friendships he forged while filming. “We made this show for the community, and so to be here and given this is such an honor. Thank you to the little ragtag feral rats over there on table 44 who’ve become my best friends and chosen family – I love you so much,” he said, reminding us all of the power of connection and support.
Now, with its US premiere on June 1, What It Feels Like for a Girl is ready to capture hearts and spark conversations across America. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be moved by this powerful coming-of-age story that’s not just about a boy finding himself, but a community finding its voice.
For those in the UK, don’t fret! The series is still available to stream on BBC iPlayer, ensuring that no one misses out on this important piece of queer storytelling. So, whether you’re in the UK or the US, make sure to check out What It Feels Like for a Girl and join the celebration of love, identity, and resilience this Pride Month.