Interview: Writer/actress Hunter Schafer (‘Euphoria’) talks about her creative process and trans representation in media [VIDEO]

Upon her acting debut in HBO’s Euphoria, actress and activist Hunter Schafer took the world by storm, delivering one of the most authentic and affecting portrayals of a trans character that television had ever seen. Though she was unfortunately left off last year’s list of Emmy nominations, Schafer is nevertheless back this season, campaigning for her writing on the series’ second special episode, “Fuck Anyone Who’s Not A Sea Blob.”

The special affords Schafer’s Jules the time and space to share her side of the story and set things straight – especially in regards to her tumultuous relationship with Zendaya’s Rue – following the fallout of the season one finale of Euphoria. Additionally, in both her acting and writing, Schafer explores the totality of the trans experience today, figuring out what “femininity” means to her and working through past turmoil to find her place in the world.

AwardsWatch contributor Zach Gilbert spent some time with Schafer as she hit both the physical and virtual campaign trail, asking the actress about the particulars of the creative process behind this special and hearing how she hopes to reshape trans representation in the media.

Schafer’s “Fuck Anyone Who’s Not A Sea Blob” special episode of Euphoria is eligible for Writing for a Limited Series, Anthology Series or TV Movie and is available to stream on HBO Max.

Photo: Eddy Chen/HBO

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Zoë Rose Bryant

Though Zoë Rose Bryant has only worked in film criticism for a little under three years – turning a collegiate passion into a full-time career by writing for outlets such as Next Best Picture, AwardsWatch, and Loud and Clear Reviews – her captivation with cinema has been a lifelong fascination, appreciating film in all its varying forms, from horror movies to heartfelt romantic comedies and everything in between. Born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, she made the move to Los Angeles in 2021 after graduating from college and now spends her days additionally working as a List Editor and occasional writer for Screen Rant (as she attempts to attend every screening under the sun). As a trans critic, she also seeks to champion underrepresented voices in the LGBTQ+ community in film criticism and offer original insight on how gender and sexuality are explored in modern entertainment. You can find Zoë Rose on Twitter at @ZoeRoseBryant.

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