Youth's Lives Every Day
By: Jaymes Black, CEO, The Trevor Project
Academy Award-nominated actor, director, producer, writer, and bestselling author Elliot Page has built a career around the power of storytelling. From groundbreaking performances on film and television to his acclaimed memoir Pageboy, Elliot has used his platform to expand understanding, foster empathy, and create space for people to live more authentically. He has become one of the most visible advocates for the trans community, shining a light on issues affecting marginalized people to help build a more inclusive future.
Now, Elliot is helping tell a different kind of story through Second Nature, the new documentary he narrates and co-executive produces. The film explores the remarkable diversity of the animal kingdom, revealing how long-held assumptions about sex, gender, and sexuality in nature often fail to reflect reality. Through the work of scientists and researchers, Second Nature offers a fresh perspective on the natural world – one that celebrates its complexity and uncovers unexpected truths about the diversity of life.
I chatted with Elliot about what drew him to the project, the discoveries that surprised him most, and why the film’s message feels especially relevant right now. He also reflects on finding joy in authenticity, the importance of LGBTQ+ visibility, and the message of hope he wants trans and nonbinary young people to hear.
Jaymes: Elliot, thank you so much for chatting with The Trevor Project! You’re both the narrator and co-executive producer of Second Nature. What first drew you to this project, and why did it feel important to be part of telling this story?
Elliot: What drew me to Second Nature is that it’s filled with expansive, exciting and profoundly liberating information about our world. Honestly, I felt silly for not already assuming the natural world to be queer AF. It is important for people to know that the stories we have been taught about sexuality and gender in nature (humans included) are as Dr. Joan Roughgarden says, “quaint little myths” and for the truth to reach as many people as possible.
Jaymes: In the documentary, you narrate: “There is endless diversity in nature. And the old stories we’ve been taught deserve a second look.” What do you hope audiences take away after watching the film?
Elliot: I hope audiences walk away feeling liberated and inspired by the knowledge shared in this documentary. For trans, non binary and queer folks I hope it is a poignant reminder that we are an intrinsic part of this earth and those who claim we are “unnatural” or “maladaptive” are ignorant and incorrect. I hope it encourages everyone to stretch beyond narrow expectations of gender and sexuality born of false narratives that do nothing but uphold an oppressive status quo that serves very few.
Jaymes: Was there a particular fact, species, or moment in the film that surprised or stayed with you personally?
Elliot: The story of the baboons that discovered a dump. The alpha males hoarded the food tainted by disease and all died. This new, alpha male free society then reshaped itself, evolving to become more collaborative and peaceful. That really stuck with me.
Jaymes: In your memoir Pageboy, you spoke candidly about your experiences with gender dysphoria. What brings you the greatest sense of gender euphoria or joy today?
Elliot: The greatest sense of joy in my life is feeling present in a way that I didn’t imagine possible before. That sense of joy can exist in the smallest, quietest moments, even the difficult ones. I’m operating from a more solid foundation and it’s an absolute thrill that I don’t take for granted.
Jaymes: You made history as the first openly transgender man to appear on the cover of TIME. Looking back on that moment now, what did it mean to you personally, and why does LGBTQ+ visibility in media continue to matter?
Elliot: The overriding feeling was deep gratitude for finally being at that place in my life but I was also overwhelmed. What would it really mean – to transition in front of so many people? I’m so thankful to TIME for featuring me and for having the chance to work with photographer Wynne Neilly. Visibility is crucial because it allows us to see ourselves, a reminder that we exist. Visibility alone is of course not enough, but it does offer hope, possibilities and a sense of being less alone in this world.
Jaymes: For trans and nonbinary young people who may be struggling to feel seen, accepted, or affirmed by their communities, what message of hope would you like to share with them right now?
Elliot: I’m sorry if you’re struggling to feel seen, accepted or affirmed. You don’t deserve that and it’s wrong. I want you to know that there are so many people that love you, see you and are fighting for your future. When I am scared or overwhelmed I remind myself of all those who came before, those who faced cruel, unimaginable obstacles and managed to push forward, embody their joy and create a world where you and I can exist.
Check out the links below to catch Second Nature in your city:
Los Angeles Premiere – June 20, 2026
New York Premiere – June 26, 2026 (Post-Screening Q&A with Elliot Page, Dr. Joan Roughgarden, Drew Denny and Dr. Marcela Benitez, moderated by Jaymes Black, CEO of The Trevor Project)
Learn more by visiting www.secondnaturedoc.com or @secondnaturedoc on Instagram
