Munroe Bergdorf , pioneering trans activist, model and author, shares her personal journey through the new, revealing documentary Love & Rage , now available to watch from July 15.
In the documentary, Bergdorf takes a brave look back at her life and career, illuminating the triumphs and trials that shaped her. From her cancellation as L’Oréal Paris’ first transgender spokesperson in 2017 to her eventual vindication and return to the company as head of the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board, Bergdorf’s story is honest, moving, and powerful.
“There was always a voice inside me that questioned whether I would make it to 35. The fact that I am 36 today is exciting for me. I have so much to look forward to, I am grateful,” she says. Through the documentary, she seeks to start a global conversation about identity, race, feminism and hope.
Bergdorf emphasizes the importance of being able to tell a trans, black, queer story on her own terms: “Many trans people don’t have the opportunity to share their own story. This documentary is an opportunity to show what it means to be trans today — and to do it ourselves, not others for us.”
The film doesn’t shy away from difficult moments. Her firing from L’Oréal Paris following comments she made on Facebook in 2017 — in which she denounced white supremacy and systemic racism — was a global turning point for her. Although the company cut ties with her at the time, it later acknowledged the trauma and truth behind her words, giving her a leadership role on issues of inclusion.
“My journey has brought me this far. Sometimes I think there might have been an easier path, but I’ve learned from every dark experience as much as every bright one,” he says.
Today, through Love & Rage , Bergdorf sends a clear message: struggle, dignity and love. “We live in a historic moment where trans rights are openly threatened. This is not just my story — it’s all of our stories. It’s the human story of survival, of struggle, but also of the strength that comes from love.”
With her documentary, she addresses everyone: “I hope trans people feel heard. I hope queer communities are inspired. I hope cis and heterosexual allies think about how they can actively support. Because safety, security, and equality are not privileges — they are rights.”
Alongside the release of Love & Rage , Bergdorf also presents her new book Talk To Me , published by Penguin , continuing to give voice and light to those often left on the sidelines.
