Silence of the Lambs' Star Regrets Playing Homicidal Trans Character

Ted Levine says his portrayal of Buffalo Bill has not aged well, but recent news suggests the character was disturbingly accurate.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Actor Ted Levine, who played the character of Buffalo Bill in the 1991 film 'Silence of the Lambs', has expressed regret over his portrayal of the homicidal trans character. Levine says the character's vilification of transgender identity is 'f***ing wrong' and that he has gained a better understanding of transgender issues over time. However, the article suggests that in light of recent news reports of transgender individuals committing violent crimes, Buffalo Bill may have been an uncomfortably accurate depiction.

Why it matters

This story highlights the ongoing debate around the portrayal of transgender characters in media and the potential real-world implications. It raises questions about the responsibility of filmmakers in representing marginalized communities, as well as the complex relationship between mental health, identity, and violence.

The details

In the film, Levine's character Buffalo Bill is depicted as a deeply troubled man who struggles with his gender identity and ultimately turns to murder. The character was criticized by Levine as an 'unkind and inaccurate portrayal of the transgender experience.' However, the article points to several recent news reports of transgender individuals committing violent crimes, suggesting that Buffalo Bill may have been disturbingly accurate in its depiction.

  • The film 'Silence of the Lambs' was released in 1991.
  • Levine's comments were made in 2026, on the film's 35th anniversary.

The players

Ted Levine

The actor who portrayed the character of Buffalo Bill in the 1991 film 'Silence of the Lambs'.

Buffalo Bill

The homicidal transgender character portrayed by Ted Levine in 'Silence of the Lambs'.

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What they’re saying

“There are certain aspects of the movie that don't hold up too well. We all know more, and I'm a lot wiser about transgender issues. There are some lines in that script and movie that are unfortunate.”

— Ted Levine, Actor (The Hollywood Reporter)

“[It's] just over time and having gotten aware and worked with trans folks, and understanding a bit more about the culture and the reality of the meaning of gender. It's unfortunate that the film vilified that, and it's f***ing wrong. And you can quote me on that.”

— Ted Levine, Actor (The Hollywood Reporter)

The takeaway

This story highlights the ongoing debate around the portrayal of marginalized communities in media and the potential real-world implications. It raises questions about the responsibility of filmmakers in representing these communities, as well as the complex relationship between mental health, identity, and violence.