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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Jacob Stolworthy

Comedian Eddie Izzard praised after updating pronouns in latest TV appearance

Photograph: Sky Arts

Eddie Izzard is being congratulated by fans who noticed she now uses she/her pronouns.

Earlier this week, the stand-up comedy star, 58, appeared on Sky Arts series Portrait Artist of the Year in which the show’s host Stephen Mangan and contestants referred to Izzard as “she” and “her”.

Izzard’s fans, who were catching up with the show at the weekend, have posted supportive messages on social media.

The show is the first televised appearance in which Izzard has been referred to with her chosen pronouns.

Speaking about her decision,  Izzard told contestant Chris Holder: "This is the first programme I've asked if I can be 'she' and 'her' – this is a little transition period." 

She said “it feels very positive”, adding: “I just want to be based in girl mode from now on.”

Many used the opportunity to highlight how much they love the comedian and political activist.

“I can’t tell you what she means to me as a comic,” Shappi Khorsandi wrote.

“Rocked my comedy world when I was a teen and beyond. Changed everything, made room. I love her and this morning I’m very happy for her.”

Writer Shon Faye added: “Good for Eddie Izzard asking for the pronouns she/her to be used so publicly. As far as I can gather, she isn't a trans woman – she's gender fluid – but prefers the feminine pronoun. Good for her”

Eddie Izzard on Sky Arts show ‘Portrait Artist of the Year’ (Sky Arts)

“I love Eddie Izzard and hope she gets everything she wants in this life,” another Twitter fan wrote.

In 2017, Izzard told The Hollywood Reporter: "I am essentially transgender. I have boy mode and girl mode. I do feel I have boy genetics and girl genetics."

Izzard appeared on the series seven finale of Portrait Artist of the Year, which saw contestants attempt to capture her likeness.

During her appearance, she tells them: “I think everyone should and must make life an adventure.”

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