Ulta, Pritzker Respond After Anti-Trans Backlash To TikToker

BOLINGBROOK, IL — Bolingbrook-based Ulta Beauty faced transphobic backlash recently after it featured transgender TikTok star Dylan Mulvaney in an episode of its "The Beauty Of..." podcast.

The episode featured host David Lopez and Mulvaney discussing girlhood, dysphoria and Mulvaney's journey.

Mulvaney has over 8 million followers on TikTok, where she has gathered millions of views on her "Days of Girlhood" series.

After sharing the podcast episode, Ulta and Mulvaney received transphobic comments, with some calling for a boycott of the Bolingbrook-based beauty and makeup retailer.

In a recent TikTok, Mulvaney said she wasn't really in the mood to address the boycott.

"I started making videos [on TikTok] to spread joy not to be, like, constantly defending myself," she said.

Ulta responded with a statement on Twitter on Oct. 16.

"The premise of 'The Beauty Of...' is to feature conversations that widen the lens surrounding traditional beauty standards. We believe beauty is for everyone," the business said. "And while we recognize some conversations we host will challenge perspectives and opinions, we believe constructive dialogue is one important way to move beauty forward. The intersectionality of gender identity is nuanced, something David and Dylan acknowledge themselves within the episode. Regardless of how someone identifies, they deserve our respect."

Gov. J.B. Pritzker also responded on Twitter, expressing support of Ulta and Mulvaney.

"Proud of Illinois-based [Ulta Beauty] for making inclusivity part of their brand," Pritzker tweeted. "Dylan has inspired millions around the world with her openness and positivity. Hate has no home in Illinois, and we will protect our trans and non-binary community."