Two transgender public figures prompted criticism this week after saying transgender teenagers should not face penalties for shoplifting, particularly when seeking beauty products, during an episode of the Outlaws podcast.
YouTuber Gigi Gorgeous, 33, and television personality TS Madison, 47, made the remarks on Madison’s podcast, according to a Daily Mail report published Sept. 5, 2025 and updated Sept. 6. Gigi said: "If I ran the world I'd be banning penalties against shoplifting for trans teens." She described her own experience as a child, saying she had needed makeup and had "no other way to pay for it other than to five finger discount."
Gigi told listeners she believed "shoplifting should be legal - for some" and urged others to "overlook those that are young, obviously trans, and need a little makeup." She added: "Let them go. Don't chase them out. Don't call the cops. Let them live!" The report said Madison voiced agreement with those comments and emphasized the importance of access to beauty products so transgender teens can "feel safe" and "loved."
The episode drew swift public attention and criticism, with media coverage characterizing the remarks as controversial. Critics argued that endorsing theft could not be an appropriate solution for the vulnerabilities transgender youths face. Supporters and some advocates for trans rights and youth welfare have previously highlighted barriers to safe expression and access to gender-affirming items, but responses to the podcast comments included a range of views.
Gigi Gorgeous rose to prominence on YouTube and has been a vocal figure on transgender issues; TS Madison is known for her appearances on reality television, including RuPaul's Drag Race-related programming. Both have large social media followings and have commented previously on challenges faced by LGBTQ+ communities.
Neither the podcast hosts nor the platforms that distribute the Outlaws podcast issued a public statement addressing the remarks as of the Daily Mail update. The episode has renewed conversations about the safety and well-being of transgender adolescents, access to gender-affirming products, and how society, retailers and law enforcement respond when young people are found taking items without paying.
Reporting on sensitive issues involving minors and illegal activity can prompt debate about remedies and responsibilities; advocacy groups and policymakers have promoted a range of noncriminal interventions to support vulnerable youth. The comments from Gigi Gorgeous and TS Madison add to ongoing public discussion about how best to ensure that transgender teens can access necessary resources without placing themselves at legal risk.