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Shay Patten-Walker is given a special tribute in the fourth season of Netflix’s popular series ‘Sex Education’. The fifth episode of the season concludes by dedicating it to this influential figure, leaving many viewers curious about their identity and connection to the show.
Dua Saleh played Cal, who had a pretty bumpy journey this time round, in the final series which saw us say goodbye to Otis, Maeve, Eric, and the rest of Moordale.
In episode five, when Cal starts to seriously struggle, a dedication to Shay Patten-Walker pops up. Shay Patten-Walker is the one who they were and they had an impact on Cal's storyline in Sex Education.
Who was Shay Patten-Walker?
Shay Patten-Walker was a dedicated trans activist who regrettably took their own life in 2022 at the young age of 24. Shay pursued their studies at the University of Greenwich and played a pivotal role as a speaker and facilitator for various LGBTQ+ and human rights organizations, including the Generation Equality Forum and UK Black Pride.
He was a trans activist who tragically took their own life in February 2022. At the young age of 24, they had already made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. Patten-Walker worked as a gender consultant for ‘Sex Education’, focusing particularly on the stories about Cal, a character navigating the complexities of transitioning.
Rico Chance, who serves as the director of TransActual, an organization committed to enhancing trans visibility in politics and the media, shared heartfelt sentiments about Shay. He emphasized that Shay held a significant place within the Trans and non-binary community.
Despite their youth, at just 24 years old, Shay wore multiple hats, serving as a youth worker, poet, public speaker, and activist. Shay harnessed their voice as a tool for inspiration, education, and empowerment, effecting positive change and uplifting the community.
Shay clearly displayed themselves as a force for good in the world, with many accolades to their name, including speaking at the 2021 Generation Equality Forum - a global gathering for gender equality, collaborating with organizations like Gendered Intelligence - a charity that strives to enhance understandings of gender diversity and improve the lives of trans people - and UK Black Pride. Additionally, Shay served as a voice actor for a black non-binary video game character.
In memory of Shay's activism
Shay actively served as a consultant on Sex Education season four, providing assistance with the stories of transgender and non-binary characters such as Cal and presumably Abbi (Anthony Lexa) and Roman (Felix Mufti).
Patten-Walker’s influence on ‘Sex Education’ is evident in the show’s sensitive and authentic portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences. Their work as gender consultants likely played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of Cal and other non-binary characters in the series.
TransActual director Rico Chance said: "Shay was one of the pillars in the Trans/NB community. They knew everyone, loved everyone and supported everyone. Even at the age of 24, they were involved in youth work, poetry, public speaking, and activism."
"I only learned at their memorial service that Netflix worked with them to create diversity on the screen, the humility on that one. They used their voice to inspire, educate, and empower, creating positive change and uplifting the community. Shay, we love you, and I’m glad you've found peace. We will never forget your light."
A Lasting Legacy
Despite their untimely death, Patten-Walker’s impact continues to resonate. They were remembered at a memorial ceremony in March 2022 and at the Trans Day of Remembrance in London, England in late 2022. Their work on ‘Sex Education’ serves as a testament to their commitment to promoting diversity and representation.
The tribute to Shay Patten-Walker in ‘Sex Education’ season 4 is a poignant reminder of their significant contributions to the show and the broader LGBTQ+ community. Their legacy continues to inspire and educate, shedding light on the experiences of trans and non-binary individuals.
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