Story perspectives

Buffalo Bill's Legacy: Apologies for Transgender Harm

2/15/2026

Summary

Levine and Saxon Acknowledge Harm

On the 35th anniversary of Buffalo Bill's portrayal in 2026, Ted Levine (actor) and Edward Saxon (producer) apologized.
They acknowledged the portrayal harmed the transgender community.
Levine said he is wiser about transgender issues.
Saxon admitted insensitivity to stereotypes.
Critics argue the film should not be judged by today’s standards, while some fans defend its legacy.

History

Historical Context

"The Silence of the Lambs," released in 1991, sparked controversy for its portrayal of Buffalo Bill, a character criticized for reinforcing negative stereotypes about transgender individuals. This coincided with the American Psychological Association's removal of homosexuality from its list of mental disorders, reflecting shifting societal attitudes. Recent apologies from Ted Levine and Edward Saxon highlight ongoing discussions about representation and accountability in media narratives.

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Levine and Saxon Acknowledge Harm

On the 35th anniversary of Buffalo Bill's portrayal in 2026, Ted Levine (actor) and Edward Saxon (producer) apologized.
They acknowledged the portrayal harmed the transgender community.
Levine said he is wiser about transgender issues.
Saxon admitted insensitivity to stereotypes.
Critics argue the film should not be judged by today’s standards, while some fans defend its legacy.

1 / 2