Harper Steele, co-star of the Emmy-nominated documentary ‘Will & Harper’, is set to be honored by the city of West Hollywood for her significant contributions to transgender advocacy.
Harper Steele Honored by West Hollywood for Advocacy
EXCLUSIVE: Harper Steele, co-star of the Emmy-nominated documentary Will & Harper alongside Will Ferrell, will receive an official proclamation from the city of West Hollywood for her advocacy and ongoing efforts to uplift the transgender community.
Documentary Overview
The Netflix film, directed by Josh Greenbaum, chronicles Steele and Ferrell’s road trip across America to rekindle their friendship after Steele reveals her gender transition. The two first met on Saturday Night Live, where Steele served as head writer and Ferrell emerged as a prominent comedic talent. This documentary has received five Emmy nominations, the highest for any nonfiction project this year, including Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special, cinematography, directing, and picture editing.
Recognition and Impact
West Hollywood will honor Steele at an event on Tuesday night, recognizing the documentary’s significance in humanizing the politicized issue of trans identity. The city’s proclamation emphasizes the crucial need for representation and support for transgender and gender-nonconforming communities, especially in light of rising anti-trans legislation across the country. “[F]ilms like Will & Harper play a vital role in advancing cultural awareness, challenging stigma, and celebrating the power of allyship in the face of discrimination and misunderstanding,” the proclamation states.
Harper Steele’s Journey
Originally from Iowa City, Steele graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in English. She joined the writing staff of SNL in 1995, coinciding with Ferrell’s debut as a cast member. Years later, after leaving SNL, Steele felt ready to transition. In 2022, she shared her decision with friends, including Ferrell, who suggested a road trip to reconnect and explore nostalgic places. The journey is filled with humor and heartfelt moments, often shared over favorite snacks.
Global Reach and Advocacy
By streaming on Netflix, Will & Harper has the potential to influence attitudes in regions less receptive to understanding the humanity of trans individuals. West Hollywood, a sanctuary city for transgender and gender-nonconforming people, acknowledges the film’s impact.
The city’s proclamation highlights Steele’s courage in publicly coming out as a transgender woman in 2022, inspiring many and increasing visibility for transgender and gender-nonconforming communities.
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Future Prospects
Will & Harper was shortlisted for the Oscars last December but did not secure a nomination. However, the documentary’s Emmy nominations serve as a significant acknowledgment of its quality and impact. Steele expressed her disappointment over the Oscar snub but remains proud of the film and its potential to reach a wider audience.
Steele is also featured in another Emmy-nominated documentary series, SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night, where she shares insights into the show’s writing process. Emmy winners in the documentary categories will be announced during the Creative Arts ceremony on September 6 and 7. Regardless of the outcome, Will & Harper has made a lasting impression.
“I want the film to be promoted in every possible way,” Steele stated. “There’s a misunderstanding about trans people, often fueled by fear. I hope this film contributes to conversations that foster understanding and dispel fear.”
