What Owners Called “Humor” Is Widely Condemned as Disrespectful and Discriminatory – A Lesson in How Branding Choices Can Make or Break a Reputation Overnight
A small Texas restaurant has ignited a firestorm of controversy after installing bathroom doors adorned with before-and-after photos of Caitlyn Jenner, sparking accusations of transphobia that have drawn global outrage and reignited fierce debates on representation, inclusivity, and awareness in business spaces. The owners of Big Tex BBQ in Fort Worth, a family-run spot known for its brisket and “no-nonsense” vibe, defended the signs as “humor” meant to poke fun at “gender confusion” – but the move has backfired spectacularly, leading to boycott calls, death threats, and a swift reversal as social media remains split between those who see it as a harmless joke and others who decry it as outright discrimination. Either way, it’s a stark lesson in how a single branding choice can make or break a reputation overnight, turning a local eatery into an international pariah.
The signs, installed last Thursday, featured Jenner’s pre-transition image (as Bruce Jenner) on the men’s room door labeled “Bruce” and her post-transition photo on the women’s door marked “Caitlyn.” Subtle text read “No Confusion Here” with cartoon arrows pointing to each. Co-owner Hank “Tex” Harlan, 62, told Fox News initially: “It’s just good old Texas humor – folks need to lighten up.” But by Saturday, after the images went viral on TikTok with 18 million views, Harlan issued an apology on the restaurant’s Facebook page: “We meant no harm – we’ve removed the signs and regret any offense.” Too late – the damage was done, with Yelp reviews tanking from 4.2 to 1.8 stars overnight, many calling it “hate speech disguised as a joke.”
The backlash was swift and multifaceted. GLAAD, the LGBT advocacy group, condemned it as “transphobic and dangerous,” noting a 20% rise in anti-trans incidents in 2025 per FBI data. “Jenner’s transition was a beacon for millions – mocking it perpetuates violence,” spokesperson Sarah Kate Ellis said. Caitlyn Jenner herself responded on X: “Humor at my expense? Fine. But targeting trans people? That’s not funny – it’s cruel.” Fans and allies mobilized: #BoycottBigTex trended with 1.2 million posts, including a Change.org petition with 45,000 signatures demanding a formal apology and sensitivity training. Local protests drew 200 to the restaurant’s door, chanting “Respect all genders!”
Defenders, a vocal minority, called it “overreaction” to “edgy satire.” “Texas humor is blunt – get over it,” one Yelp reviewer wrote, but even Harlan’s supporters dwindled as the story spread to CNN and The New York Times. Business plummeted 70% in 48 hours, with suppliers pulling contracts and neighboring eateries distancing themselves.
The incident underscores broader issues in business inclusivity. Texas, with its 2023 bathroom bill restricting trans access, has seen 15 similar cases this year, per Equality Texas. “This isn’t isolated – it’s systemic,” said trans advocate Chase Strangio of the ACLU. “Restaurants must train staff on respect, or risk lawsuits under Title VII.” Big Tex now faces a civil rights complaint from the Human Rights Campaign.
Harlan, a third-generation Texan, doubled down then backpedaled: “We thought it was funny – clearly not.” The signs, printed by a local shop, cost $150; the PR nightmare? Priceless.
In a polarized world, Jenner’s images – once symbols of courage – became unwitting pawns. As one protester held a sign: “Humor hurts when it’s hate.” Big Tex’s lesson? In 2025, a joke can cost a legacy – and livelihoods.
