Nearly two decades have elapsed since the release of the beloved film Juno, yet its enduring charm continues to captivate audiences, standing as a testament to its timeless appeal in the ever-evolving landscape of cinema.
One notable transformation over the 17 years since its debut lies in the trajectory of its cast members and the evolution of film culture as a whole. Elliot Page, who portrayed the endearing protagonist Juno MacGuff at the tender age of 20, exemplifies this evolution.
Since the film’s release, the Oscar-nominated actor has embarked on a multifaceted journey, establishing a personal production company, gracing the screens in a multitude of films and series, publicly coming out as transgender, and even exploring the realm of music. Page, who now uses he/they pronouns, has undoubtedly come into his own since his breakout role in 2007.
Despite his myriad accomplishments, many still fondly recall Page’s remarkable performance in Juno. However, there remains one aspect of his portrayal that he finds discomforting—a sentiment he openly addressed.
In the heartwarming tale, which also features talents like Michael Cera, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, Allison Janney, and JK Simmons, Juno finds herself unexpectedly pregnant after a liaison with her friend Paulie Bleeker (Cera). Opting for adoption, Juno and Paulie intersect with the prospective adoptive parents Mark and Vanessa Loring (Bateman and Garner), leading to a series of endearing and poignant encounters.
Yet, amidst the film’s charm, a moment arises when Juno questions the suggested name “Madison,” remarking, “Madison? Wait, hold on…Isn’t that like a little, gay?” Reflecting on this line, Page acknowledged its problematic nature, recognizing the prevalence of homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia in beloved films of his youth.
Expressing a desire for increased representation in Hollywood, Page recounted his refusal to recite the problematic dialogue during a table read for Planned Parenthood. This commitment to inclusivity underscores his advocacy for positive change within the industry.
In his 2023 memoir “Pageboy,” Page delved further into his Juno experiences, revealing candid insights into his on-set dynamics, including intimate scenes with co-star Olivia Thirlby, who portrayed Juno’s confidante Leah. Amidst his rising fame propelled by the film, Page grappled with the complexities of being associated with a distinctly female role, a sentiment he described as feeling “boxed in.”2
