Elliot Page Reflects on Regret Over Homophobic Joke in ‘Juno’

Elliot Page, renowned for his role in “The Umbrella Academy,” has recently expressed regret over a homophobic joke his character delivered in the 2007 film “Juno.” This coming-of-age comedy, which played a pivotal role in launching the careers of both Page and co-star Michael Cera, follows a teenage couple as they navigate the complexities of an unexpected pregnancy.

Reflecting on Past Remarks

In “Juno,” Page portrays the titular character, a teenager facing an unplanned pregnancy. During a scene where Juno and her baby’s adoptive parents discuss potential names, she dismissively claims that the name Madison “sounds a little gay.” While this line elicited significant backlash from the LGBTQ+ community upon the film’s release, Page admitted that he did not fully grasp its impact at the time.

A Shift in Perspective

Now at 37, Page reflects on the consequences of such comments. In a recent interview with Bustle, he acknowledged, “It wasn’t something I totally registered at the time.” He continued, “Of course, now that I’m older I do.” Page emphasized that many beloved films from his youth are riddled with homophobic, transphobic, and biphobic sentiments. He stated, “It really hurts the industry and it really hurts film. We need more stories. We need more representation. We need more points of view.”

Advocacy and Identity

Since coming out as a transgender man in December 2020, Page has become a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly focusing on the issues faced by trans youth. He recently used his platform at the 2024 Juno Awards to highlight the “devastating” attacks on LGBTQ+ freedoms occurring globally.

In a conversation with singer Sam Smith for their podcast “The Pink House,” Page shared his appreciation for his identity, stating, “I love being trans because I love trans people. I feel so lucky to have had this experience in my life, what it’s offered me and what it’s given me, how much it’s taught me, and the community it’s allowed me to connect to.”

Through his reflections, Page not only confronts his past but also underscores the importance of creating a more inclusive and understanding narrative in film and media, highlighting the ongoing need for diverse representation.