Image Source: Toowoomba Chronicle
Elliot Page has argued that traditional biology education can be used to marginalise queer and trans people, saying that lessons about the natural world often present an overly narrow view of sex, gender and relationships.
The Oscar-nominated actor made the comments during an interview with Imara Jones on the TransLash podcast. Page said biology is frequently taught through what he described as a “cis hetero-patriarchal” framework, which can make LGBTQ+ identities appear unnatural or out of place.
Elliot Page delivers a powerful challenge to biology myths
During the conversation, Page said that discussions of biology often overlook the wide variety of behaviours and characteristics found throughout the animal kingdom. He pointed to same-sex behaviour and gender variation among animals as examples of how nature is more diverse than many classroom lessons suggest.
“The natural world and what we learn in biology class in terms of it seemingly being this cis hetero-patriarchal system… I feel is used against queer and trans people,” Page said.
He added that LGBTQ+ people are sometimes presented as “maladaptive”, or as though there is something inherently wrong with them. Page argued that this framing can reinforce the idea that queer and trans identities are modern inventions rather than part of the broader diversity of human experience.
“Human beings are the only species that are ridiculous enough to seem to have a huge problem with trans folks,” he said.
Why representation in science education matters
Page’s comments have renewed attention on the importance of inclusive science education. Supporters of LGBTQ+ inclusion have long argued that biology and sex education should acknowledge the complexity of bodies, identities, relationships and behaviour without using scientific language to justify discrimination.
For many queer and trans students, the way biology is taught can influence whether they feel recognised or excluded at school. A broader approach could help challenge stereotypes while giving students a more accurate understanding of variation in the natural world.
- Same-sex behaviour has been observed across numerous animal species.
- Gender-related variation exists throughout nature and human societies.
- Inclusive teaching can help counter harmful assumptions about LGBTQ+ identities.
- Science education can discuss biology without treating queer or trans people as abnormal.
Page’s remarks were made in the context of a wider discussion about identity, representation and his current work. The actor also spoke about his role as Sinon in Christopher Nolan’s epic adaptation of The Odyssey.
Elliot Page discusses Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey
In Nolan’s interpretation of the classic Greek story, Sinon is connected to the deception involving the Trojan Horse. Page explained that his version of the character does not understand the true nature of the plan and is unaware that men are hiding inside the horse.
“In this situation, my character does not know that these men are on this horse,” Page said. He described Sinon as someone who later confronts Odysseus in Hades, asking how he could have lied after Sinon had sacrificed himself for the cause.
According to Page, Sinon carries a heavy burden of guilt and regret. The character has been used and misled, eventually becoming entangled in events that lead to widespread death and destruction.
“I think the character of Sinon is carrying this horrible weight,” Page said, describing a person who regrets participating in a plan he did not fully understand.
A major new chapter for the actor
The interview also offered a glimpse into Page’s latest stage of his career. The actor said working on The Odyssey allowed him to feel more like himself than ever, while marking a return to collaboration with Nolan.
Scene Magazine reported that the film opened strongly at the box office, earning more than $700 million worldwide and becoming Nolan’s highest-grossing film to date. The production has also attracted positive responses from critics and audiences.
Page’s discussion connects the film’s themes of deception, identity and power with his wider concerns about how people are classified and judged. His comments about biology education are likely to resonate with LGBTQ+ audiences who have experienced narrow or hostile explanations of identity in educational settings.
Frequently asked questions
What did Elliot Page say about biology education?
Elliot Page said traditional biology education can be used against queer and trans people when it presents society as exclusively cisgender and heterosexual.
What examples from nature did Elliot Page mention?
Page referred to same-sex behaviour and gender variation among animals as examples of the diversity found in the natural world.
Who interviewed Elliot Page?
Page discussed these topics with Imara Jones during an episode of the TransLash podcast.
Who does Elliot Page play in The Odyssey?
Page plays Sinon, a character connected to the Trojan Horse deception in Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of the Greek epic.
