Trans TikTok creator Lilly Tino has sparked sharp criticism following a series of videos filmed inside women's restrooms at Disney World. While some defend her right to visibility, many people, including members of the trans community, have accused her of intentionally provoking outrage. This tactic is often referred to as 'rage baiting'. Concerns are growing that her behaviour could set back broader efforts for transgender inclusion and safety.
Bathroom Videos Raise Privacy Concerns
Tino, who previously went by Nicholas Contino, gained attention in recent weeks after posting 'bathroom reviews' filmed inside Disney World women's restrooms. In several clips, other park guests can be seen in the background. The video was titled 'Bathroom tea!' and featured her ranking toilet conditions across different locations.
A New York Post article characterised her entry into the facilities as 'terrorising unsuspecting wait staff and women'. The article described the videos as bizarre and performative. TikTok users have pointed to Florida laws protecting restroom privacy, raising questions about whether the recordings were lawful. In a video posted on 10 June, Tino argued that the cited law does not apply to Disney.
Trans Community Warns of Harmful Stereotypes
Some of the strongest criticism has come from within the LGBTQ+ community itself. A Change.org petition described Tino's behaviour as 'disheartening'. They criticised what they saw as 'rage-baiting and clickbait tactics', arguing that such actions undermine genuine advocacy and damage the reputation of those working for positive change. A commenter on r/MtF said, 'She's essentially someone confirming a lot of the bad opinions that right wingers have about us... She's giving us a bad rep basically'.
These reactions reflect growing anxiety that Tino's behaviour may reinforce harmful stereotypes. Some fear that it could damage progress made in areas like restroom access, especially as trans rights continue to be debated in public and political spaces.
Safety, Visibility and Responsibility
Several formal petitions have called for Disney to ban Tino from its parks and for TikTok to remove her account, citing concerns that her actions undermine safe spaces for women and families and could provoke backlash affecting the wider transgender community. Supporters argue she faces unfair scrutiny and has been misgendered in some videos, with Tino herself noting, 'People judge trans women differently. Passing privilege is real'. However, others argue that her repeated use of confrontational content does not promote understanding. Instead, they believe it may fuel misunderstanding and conflict.
However, critics say her confrontational content fuels misunderstanding rather than fostering dialogue. The controversy attracted attention from figures like J.K. Rowling, who described Tino's behaviour as violating women's boundaries, prompting warnings from LGBTQ+ advocates that such framing risks escalating transphobia. Although Tino denies harmful intent, many view her provocative approach as rage-baiting, prioritising outrage over respectful conversation, with tangible consequences regardless of intent.
Lilly Tino's actions have sparked a complex debate about visibility, privacy, and responsibility within the trans community and beyond. While her supporters highlight the challenges faced by trans individuals, many fear her approach may inadvertently harm ongoing efforts for acceptance and safety. It remains vital that visibility is paired with respect to foster understanding rather than division.
