The upcoming stage adaptation of Jawbreaker, a cult classic film from the 1990s, brings a significant change to the character of Fern Mayo, originally portrayed by Judy Greer. In this new version, Fern will be depicted as a transgender character played by nonbinary actor AJ Paramo. This shift aims to highlight the film’s underlying queer themes even more prominently.
Writer Darren Stein was inspired to update Fern’s character after receiving a message from trans actress Eve Lindley, who noted the parallels between Fern’s story and the trans experience. Stein acknowledged that he was moved by Lindley’s insights, leading him to reimagine Fern’s journey in a way that resonates with the trans community.
The original film’s narrative revolves around a popular group of girls, the Flawless Four, who must cover up the accidental death of a friend. Fern, a social outsider who witnesses the incident, agrees to help, transforming into the more glamorous “Vylette.”
Choreographer Jay Jackson, known as Laganja Estranja from RuPaul’s Drag Race, expressed the significance of Fern’s character for many in the trans community, celebrating the evolution of the narrative in the musical.
Paramo shared how they were initially contacted by Stein and noted the responsibility of portraying a character that explores the journey of a trans girl seeking confidence in high school—a story they feel is important and relatable.
The musical opens on September 4 at the Hudson Backstage Theater in Los Angeles, running through September 20. This adaptation not only revitalizes a 90s classic but also aims to provide a more inclusive representation of queer narratives.
