This draft guide provides a framework for creating or reporting on entertainment and media content involving "ladyboys"—a term primarily used in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, to describe (transfeminine individuals or a "third sex"). 1. Terminology & Respectful Language
: Always use the name and pronouns currently used by the individual, regardless of their medical status or birth-assigned sex. 2. Storytelling & Representation Moving beyond stereotypes is essential for authentic media. Guidelines for working with LGBT+ performers - Equity
: Use "transgender" or "kathoey" as adjectives (e.g., "kathoey performers"), never as nouns (e.g., "the transgenders").
: "Ladyboy" is a common English translation, often used in tourism and entertainment, but can have exoticizing or offensive undertones. Within Thailand, kathoey (or sao praphet song – "women of the second kind") is more standard.
