Chris Edwards

Chris made his advertising debut in 1993 as a copywriter at Arnold Worldwide in Boston. It was there he used the principles of branding and marketing, along with his ever-present sense of humor, to orchestrate what was quite possibly the most widely accepted and embraced gender transition of its kind––at a time when the word “transgender” didn’t exist.

He eventually became more known for his creative talent than his transition. He was the first to use YouTube content in a TV spot with two guys rapping about McNuggets and is responsible for the earworm, Gimme back that Filet-O-Fish, gimme that fiiiiish. He was also part of the creative team on Truth, which was recently ranked one of the Top 15 Ad Campaigns of the 21st Century.

After building an award-winning career spanning nearly twenty years, Chris left his Arnold post as EVP, Group Creative Director to live the freelance life so he could write his memoir, BALLS: It Takes Some to Get Some. He’s since become a sought-after speaker, inspiring audiences with his courageous story and compelling message that we actually have the power to control how others define us. His unique perspective also makes him a valuable consultant to agencies and clients looking to reach a transgender audience in an authentic way, and companies looking to adapt corporate policy and culture to be more inclusive. 

When he’s not freelancing, speaking or consulting he can be found in the stands at his nephews sporting events, at the beach on Cape Cod or, during bouts of insomnia, in bed binge-watching all kinds of TV. His cue is almost empty so he’s open for suggestions and any non-generic Ambien anyone might be willing to share.