Marvel’s first out trans actor Zach Barack says superhero films are ‘inherently trans’
The actor is starring alongside Tom Holland in 'Spider-Man: Far From Home'
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Marvel’s first out trans actor Zach Barack says there is something ‘inherently trans’ about superhero stories.
The highly anticipated sequel to the hit Sony/Marvel Studios Spider-Man: Homecoming is set to be released in UK cinemas on July 5 – and July 2 for US audiences.
When the trailer for Spider-Man: Far From Home was released, it was praised for being the first Marvel film to cast two trans actors, Zach Barack and Tyler Luke Cunningham.
And now, Zach Barack – who plays Peter Parker’s high school friend – spoke to Variety at the premiere in Los Angeles and said there’s something ‘inherently trans’ about superhero movies.
He said: “I’m not by any means an expert on comics, but I read them growing up, you know, and they were important.
“And there’s something very inherently trans about those stories, especially ones where identity and hidden identity is part of them.
“For example, Peter Parker’s journey [in Spider-Man: Homecoming] is a lot about balancing being a teenager and having this other part of your life.
“And that is just so trans, it’s something that I absolutely think I’ve felt on a daily basis sometimes – especially being a transmasculine person because sometimes there’s a pressure to be a different way than I feel naturally inclined to do because I want to fit in, and I have to actively fight that instinct.
“But the fact of the matter is, being in this movie is so beyond incredibly meaningful and I hope that it means something to other people.”
Watch the trailer for Spider-Man: Far From Home below: