Brian Cox’s Kilt Mishap at Toronto Film Festival Lays Bare His Cheeky Humor

On Thursday, September 11, 2025, veteran actor Brian Cox attended the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) premiere of his film “Glenrothan” in a traditional Scottish kilt, paying homage to his heritage and embracing the increasingly visible celebration of diverse gender expressions on global red carpets. While the 79-year-old star’s sartorial choice was met with enthusiasm by many in attendance, a wardrobe malfunction quickly captured headlines and social media feeds worldwide .

As Cox participated in a post-screening Q&A, the audience caught more of a glimpse than intended. The actor, known for his wit and composure, responded with humor: "Is it that bad?" he quipped. "Or that good?"

Reactions online were swift and varied. Some fans and commentators praised Cox’s confidence and ability to laugh off the situation, commending him for normalizing the occasional unpredictability of fashion choices. Others used the incident to highlight the persistent scrutiny faced by those who deviate from traditional gendered dress codes, especially on international stages.

Queer influencers and activists, including several trans and nonbinary advocates, took to platforms such as Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) to share personal stories of wardrobe mishaps and the importance of supportive environments. “We’ve all had fashion fail moments—what matters is how the space responds,” wrote @MxJordanPride, a London-based advocate, adding that “red carpets can be intimidating, especially for transgender people and gender nonconforming folks. Seeing public figures handle these moments with humor and dignity helps reduce the stigma” .

A spokesperson for TIFF issued a statement the following day, reaffirming the festival’s commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for attendees of all identities. “We celebrate all forms of cultural and personal expression at our festival and are grateful to Mr. Cox for his good humor and professionalism,” the statement read .

Fashion historians and LGBTQ+ cultural critics have long noted the power of red carpet moments to reflect—and sometimes challenge—societal attitudes towards gender and identity. The kilt, while a symbol of Scottish tradition, has come to embody a wider conversation about the fluidity of clothing and the right of individuals to express themselves authentically, regardless of gender .