Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Caitlyn Jenner

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Caitlyn Jenner.

Caitlyn Jenner is an American media personality and retired Olympic gold medal-winning decathlete, formerly known as Bruce Jenner. Jenner gained global recognition for winning gold in the decathlon at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. In later life, Jenner publicly came out as a trans woman in 2015, becoming a prominent figure in the transgender community. This transition was documented in a reality television series, 'I Am Cait,' which explored her journey and the challenges faced by transgender individuals. Beyond athletics and media, Jenner has also ventured into politics, running as a Republican candidate in the 2021 California gubernatorial recall election.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

2014: Glamour's Women of the Year controversy

In 2014, Caitlyn Jenner's celebration at Glamour magazine's Women Of The Year in New York sparked controversy. Chris Mandle criticized Jenner's comments as 'offensive and insulting,' and James Smith returned his deceased wife's 'Woman of the Year' award, deeming Glamour's decision insulting to her memory, objecting specifically to Jenner's commentary on the "hardest part about being a woman."

February 2015: Involvement in fatal multiple-vehicle collision

In February 2015, Jenner was involved in a fatal multiple-vehicle collision on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, resulting in the death of Kim Howe.

September 2015: Depiction on South Park

Beginning in September 2015, Jenner was parodied on the satirical American animated program South Park.

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December 2015: Settlement of lawsuit by Jessica Steindorff

In December 2015, Jessica Steindorff, a Hollywood agent involved in the February 2015 car collision, settled her lawsuit against Jenner.

January 2016: Settlement of lawsuit by Howe's stepchildren

In January 2016, the stepchildren of Kim Howe, who died in the February 2015 car collision, settled their lawsuit against Jenner.

April 2016: Involvement in Republican presidential primaries

In April 2016, Jenner became an exemplar for Donald Trump's opposition to North Carolina's Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act. Jenner soon posted a video showing that she had taken Trump up on his offer to use any restroom of her choosing at his Trump Tower property.

2016: Stance on Republican presidential primaries and Donald Trump

In 2016, Caitlyn Jenner expressed leaning towards political conservatism as a Republican, and stated she liked Ted Cruz in the 2016 Republican presidential primaries. Though not endorsing Donald Trump, she suggested he would be good for women's issues but stated she would never support Hillary Clinton. Jenner said she voted for Trump in the 2016 presidential election, although voter records suggest she never cast a ballot.

February 2017: Response to Trump rescinding transgender student rights

In February 2017, following President Trump's decision to rescind federal requirements granting transgender students the right to choose the school restroom matching their gender identity, Caitlyn Jenner tweeted to Trump, criticizing the decision and reminding him of his promise to protect the LGBTQ community.

July 2017: Contemplation of Senate run and condemnation of transgender military ban

In July 2017, Caitlyn Jenner considered running in the 2018 race for the U.S. Senate to represent California. Also in July 2017, she condemned President Trump's order reinstating a ban on transgender people from serving in the military.

October 2018: Withdrawal of support for Donald Trump

In October 2018, Caitlyn Jenner withdrew her support for Donald Trump, citing the Trump administration's relentless attacks on the trans community.

May 2021: Views on transgender girls in sports

In May 2021, during her run for governor, Caitlyn Jenner stated that trans girls should not be allowed to compete in girls' sports at school, aligning with Republican Party views. Jenner reiterated her views on Twitter, stating it's about fairness and protecting girls' sports, leading to criticism from transgender rights advocates.

September 2021: Support of the Texas Heartbeat Act

In September 2021, Caitlyn Jenner supported the Texas Heartbeat Act, which made all post-six-week abortions illegal, sparking widespread criticism.

2021: Criticism for views on transgender issues and support for Republican Party

In 2021, Caitlyn Jenner's decision to run for governor of California received pushback from LGBT activists and trans people, citing concerns about her views on transgender issues and support for the Republican Party. Her opposition to trans girls in girls' sports also drew criticism.