In a bold display of solidarity with the transgender community, actor Pedro Pascal donned a striking white T-shirt emblazoned with the phrase "Protect the Dolls" at the London premiere of Marvel's Thunderbolts on April 22, 2025. This shirt, designed by London-based fashion designer Conner Ives, has quickly become a symbol of advocacy and support for trans rights, particularly in light of recent political developments that threaten the community.
The phrase "Protect the Dolls" is a colloquial term used affectionately within the LGBTQIA+ community to refer to trans women. As Pascal walked the red carpet, his outfit caught the attention of fans and media alike, not just for its fashion statement but for its powerful message. The timing of his appearance is particularly poignant, given that the UK Supreme Court recently ruled that the legal definition of a woman is based solely on biological sex, a decision that has raised concerns among activists about the potential implications for trans rights.
"Pedro [Pascal] and his stylist Julie [Ragolia] were some of the first celebrities that reached out after we debuted this T-shirt," Ives shared. "I’m pretty sure they bought two, which was extremely kind and supportive of this cause." The shirt first debuted during Ives' autumn/winter 2025 show, where he closed the presentation wearing it as a form of protest and support for the trans community. Since then, the demand has surged, with net sales reportedly climbing to just under £200,000 shortly after the launch.
All proceeds from the sale of the "Protect the Dolls" tee are being donated directly to Trans Lifeline, a trans-led charity in the United States that provides essential support and services to transgender individuals. The charity connects trans people with resources they need to thrive, and Ives has emphasized the importance of supporting the community during these challenging times. "Given the US Federal government's current hostility towards trans people, support like this is needed now more than ever," he stated.
Pascal's advocacy is deeply personal, as his sister, Lux Pascal, came out as transgender in 2021. He has consistently used his platform to amplify messages of acceptance and love, including a heartfelt Instagram post celebrating Lux's identity: "Mi hermana, mi corazón, nuestra Lux," which translates to "My sister, my heart, our Lux." This personal connection fuels his commitment to the cause, making his public appearances in the shirt all the more significant.
The shirt has gained traction not only through Pascal but also among other celebrities. Troye Sivan wore it during his performance at Coachella, and designer Haider Ackermann has been seen sporting the tee as well. The growing visibility of the shirt and its message highlights a collective effort among public figures to stand against anti-trans rhetoric and support marginalized communities.
Anti-trans sentiment has been on the rise, with various political figures in both the UK and the US pushing legislation that restricts the rights of transgender individuals. In the United States, former President Donald Trump made headlines with an executive order that recognizes only two unchangeable sexes, while the UK Supreme Court's ruling has sparked fears of further erosion of trans rights. In this context, Pascal’s choice to wear the shirt at a high-profile event serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the trans community.
As the world watches Pascal transition into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with his upcoming role as Reed Richards in The Fantastic Four: First Steps, his advocacy for trans rights continues to resonate. His commitment extends beyond his sister’s journey; it encompasses a broader fight for equality and justice for all transgender individuals. Pascal's presence at the premiere was not just about promoting a film; it was about using his influence to champion a cause that is increasingly under threat.
Fashion has long been a vehicle for activism, and Ives' "Protect the Dolls" shirt exemplifies how clothing can convey powerful messages. It serves as a reminder that in times of uncertainty, visibility and support for marginalized communities can make a significant impact. As Ives noted, "Clothes have the ability to say things about our world. I’m very happy for Pedro, and so many others, to use them as a billboard to express something that should never even need to be said: trans rights are human rights." This sentiment echoes the collective responsibility to advocate for those whose voices are often silenced.
Looking ahead, the demand for the "Protect the Dolls" tee shows no signs of slowing. As more individuals, celebrities, and activists join the movement, the message of support for trans rights continues to grow louder. With the film Thunderbolts set to release on May 2, 2025, and Pascal's role in the Marvel franchise expanding, his influence in both the entertainment industry and LGBTQ+ advocacy circles will likely continue to flourish.
In a world where the rights of transgender individuals are under constant scrutiny, Pascal’s actions remind us of the importance of allyship and the power of visibility. Whether on the red carpet or in everyday life, standing up for trans rights is not just a trend; it is a vital part of creating a more inclusive and equitable society for everyone.
