‘I Am Cait’ Premiere Preview: What Viewers Will See
“I Am Cait,” the new eight part docu-series following Caitlyn Jenner, focuses not just on her personal journey, but her public life as an advocate, hoping to educate and shed more light on issues facing trans people.
“What a responsibility I have towards this community,” Caitlyn says in the show’s opening.
“I just hope I get it right. I hope I get it right,” she adds.
PHOTOS: ESPYS 2015: Caitlyn Jenner’s Big Night
The premiere episode, which was screened for television critics and reporters on Tuesday in West Hollywood, ahead of its premiere on E! on Sunday night, covered a lot of ground.
Here are some of the things viewers will see in Sunday’s premiere episode:
Going Public
In the opening sequence, Caitlyn sits in a makeup chair, with the glam squad all around, and viewers get a glimpse into her world as she watches news reports on the release of her Vanity Fair cover story. Reactions from her family immediately start to roll in. Rob Kardashian calls, and then Kim Kardashian. “You didn’t tell me you were on Twitter,” Kim teases, letting Caitlyn know that she is in the running to beat President Barack Obama’s record for amassing the most Twitter followers in a certain amount of time. “Let’s break records!” Caitlyn shouts.
The price of going public is also touched on. On a drive to San Diego, Caitlyn is forced to change vehicles three times, and hide in the back of a utility-style van to avoid being photographed by the paparazzi, who she learns are likely posted throughout the hills around where she lives. Caitlyn says she’s heard photos of her can go for $250K.
Meeting The Family As Caitlyn
Cameras are in the car with Caitlyn’s mother, Esther Jenner, and Caitlyn’s sisters, Pam and Lisa, as they drive to Malibu to meet the person they grew up calling Bruce, for the first time as Caitlyn Jenner. Very quickly, those initial nerves from all parties are replaced by smiles and happy tears. But, with the show’s additional focus on education, a counselor comes in and sits with the Jenners to answer questions.
“I Am Cait” also captures the very first time Kylie Jenner sees her dad as Caitlyn – and it’s not in person, but on FaceTime. Woozy after a dentist appointment, Kylie FaceTimes Caitlyn, who answers without even realizing (until later) what a big moment it is in their relationship.
WATCH: Caitlyn’s Big Weekend
Adjusting To Her New Life
There’s a brief, but emotional moment with Caitlyn and her sister, Pam, as she goes through all of the old Bruce clothes, and a funny one when she realizes on the tennis court how important a sports bra is. And, there is a laugh out loud moment when Kim K. drops by and they go to Caitlyn’s well-stocked wardrobe. When Caitlyn shows off a black, zippered dress she loves from Tom Ford, Kim points out “Mom” (Kris Jenner) has the same one in chocolate brown and it provides fodder for a conversation too good to spoil.
Kanye West!
Kanye West makes a brief appearance in the premiere of “I Am Cait,” and he commends Caitlyn on the courage she has taking her journey public. Kanye then hangs with the Jenners for a little bit.
Getting Across A Message — There Is Help
Caitlyn travels to San Diego at the end of the episode and meets with Katherine Prescott, the mother of Kyler Prescott, a trans teenager, who tragically took his own life. She spends time with Katherine, to hear Kyler’s story, and later, with Kyler’s grieving friends, at an event to remember the student. It’s a moving experience for Caitlyn, who wants to do what she can to help the young trans community. “Young people – they have to realize that there is so much help out there,” Caitlyn says.
“I Am Cait” premieres on July 26 at 8 PM ET/PT on E!
— Jolie Lash