KaladKaren advocates for authentic trans casting amid ‘Die Beautiful’ musical debate

KaladKaren breaks silence on “Die Beautiful” casting issue, backs trans representation while addressing Viñas Deluxe and Maxie debate.

Trans media personality Jervi Wrightson, also known as KaladKaren, weighed in on the ongoing discussion surrounding the lead casting of the upcoming stage adaptation, “Die Beautiful: The Musical.”

In an radar Entertainment interview with KaladKaren at the “White Party Manila 2026,” she asserted the importance of authentic casting in the entertainment industry. She emphasized that productions should ideally reflect the true gender identity of the characters being portrayed.

“Ako naman, trans people, I mean, films, theater plays, should be truthful kung ano ba talaga ‘yong gender identity no’ng role na dapat gampanan,” she explained.

Pointing out the abundance of talent within the community, the MMFF Best Actress added, “And I think, ang dami namang transgender people na pagpipilian, so why not cast them? So I’m pro to casting people for who they are.”

The conversation inevitably touched upon the recent casting of “Drag Race PH” alumni Viñas Deluxe and Maxie Andreison. The two drag superstars are set to alternate in the lead role of transgender beauty queen Trisha Echevarria, a character originally popularized by Paolo Ballesteros in the original 2016 film. 

When asked for her message to the queens, KaladKaren was quick to express her admiration for their capabilities while acknowledging the root of the public’s concern.

“I love both of them. Ang galing nilang dalawa,” KaladKaren noted. “It’s just that nagkaroon na ng issue because they’re not transgender women. But I think they can do the job.”

While voicing her confidence in Viñas and Maxie, the award-winning actress also took the opportunity to uplift trans theater actress Lance Reblando, suggesting her as an equally excellent fit for the production.

“But Lance Reblando is also a very, very viable candidate for the position, so maybe cast her also. Why not?” she added.

Produced by IDEAfirstLive!, “Die Beautiful: The Musical” is officially scheduled to open in June 2027 at the Proscenium Theater in Makati.

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