Popular Thai production giant GMMTV, renowned globally for creating hit BL and GL content, has come under intense fire after unveiling the trailer for its upcoming 2026 GL drama Her The Series.
The series stars “Namtan” Tipnaree Weerawatnodom, “Film” Rachanun Mahapreukpong, and “Junior” Panachai Sriariyarungruang, who all previously gained attention for their performances in Pluto.
However, excitement turned to outrage once viewers learned the drama’s central plot twist.
The Controversial Storyline
In the series, Junior and Namtan both portray Arpo, a character who is born biologically male. After discovering his fiancée’s infidelity and suffering a violent attack, Arpo fakes his own death only to return later as a woman seeking revenge.
The trailer also includes a scene where Arpo appears to use vaginal dilators, a tool associated with gender-affirming vaginoplasty used to maintain the vaginal canal. This has led many viewers to conclude that the show uses gender transition as a narrative tool for revenge, rather than as a genuine expression of identity.
During media discussions, Namtan reportedly confirmed this, stating she would play the character “after their transition.”
Why the Backlash Is Growing
Netizens and LGBTQ+ communities have highlighted several major concerns:
- The drama is marketed as a GL (girl love) series, yet the main character is portrayed by a male actor for the pre-transition phase.
- A cisgender actress plays a trans woman, despite GMMTV having transgender actresses signed under the company.
- Gender-affirming surgery is framed as something used for vengeance, trivializing a deeply personal and often difficult process for real transgender individuals.
Many online comments stressed how dangerous and irresponsible such portrayal could be, particularly the implication that transitioning is a “tool” rather than an identity.
Viewers also expressed frustration that GMMTV, a major industry power known for progressive representation, would choose such a storyline in 2026. Calls for the drama’s cancellation have since spread across community forums, X (Twitter), and global LGBTQ+ discussion groups.
Critics argue that the drama misrepresents transgender experiences and risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes. With the rising visibility of trans performers in Thai entertainment, many believe GMMTV missed an opportunity for authentic casting and thoughtful storytelling.
As of now, GMMTV has not issued an official statement addressing the backlash.
Sources: Koreaboo
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