Okay, let’s talk about a huge moment happening in Hollywood right now! Trans and non-binary actors are not just becoming increasingly visible on our TV and cinema screens, they’re absolutely crushing it in a way that’s truly changing the game. We’ve seen some of the biggest cultural moments of 2023, from blockbuster hits like *The Last of Us* and *Barbie* to beloved series such as *Heartstopper* and *The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes*, all featuring incredible talented trans and non-binary stars.
This isn’t just about ‘representation’ in a token sense; it’s about a new era of LGBTQ+ representation that’s bursting through old barriers. While it’s vital for trans actors to play trans characters and tell their unique stories, it’s equally monumental when these brilliant talents step into roles where their gender identity isn’t the storyline’s central focus. It shows the world that acting talent knows no bounds, and that trans actors can bring depth and nuance to any character.
So, get ready to celebrate! We’re shining a spotlight on 15 phenomenal trans and non-binary actors who are not only captivating audiences but also leading the charge in taking on a diverse array of non-trans storylines. These game-changers are proving that Hollywood is finally, gloriously, opening its doors to talent, no matter how an actor identifies. Let’s dive into the first seven who are redefining what’s possible on screen!
1. **Talisa García**First up, let’s give a huge round of applause to British-Chilean actress Talisa García! You might recognize her from the Disney+ fantasy series *Willow*, which, as the context reminds us, was an “absolute queer favourite.” Talisa brought Queen Arianna of Galladoorn, wife of King Zivian Hastur, to life, and her performance truly helped “make the show what it is.”
What makes Talisa’s role as Queen Arianna so incredibly significant, especially for our discussion here, is that she became the “first trans actress cast in a cisgender role in a Disney show.” Now, that’s not just a step forward; that’s a gigantic leap! It’s a powerful statement from a major studio, showing a willingness to cast talent for the role, irrespective of the actor’s gender identity matching the character’s. This kind of casting deeply normalizes trans actors in mainstream projects.
Despite her acting resume not being “extensive,” this singular achievement deserves “her flowers for becoming the first trans actress cast in a cisgender role in a Disney show.” It’s a trailblazing moment that truly paves the way for countless others, demonstrating that trans actors can embody any character with authenticity and depth. She’s an icon, showing Hollywood how it’s done and opening up a universe of possibilities for diverse storytelling.
2. **Rebecca Root**Next on our list of amazing game-changers is the brilliant English actress Rebecca Root. Chances are, you’ve probably seen her in something you’ve watched and loved! Most recently, she popped up in the much-adored *Heartstopper* season two as the principal of Lambert School. It’s a role perfectly woven into a beloved, mainstream teen drama, where her identity isn’t the plot’s focus, highlighting her ability to portray diverse characters seamlessly.
Rebecca is widely “best known for starring in leading role in the 2015 BBC sitcom Boy Meets Girl,” but her career spans much further. She’s also made appearances in other Netflix favorites like *Sex Education* and *The Queen’s Gambit*, adding her undeniable talent to shows that have captivated global audiences. Her presence in these series, often in roles where her trans identity isn’t central, quietly but powerfully broadens horizons.
Beyond her work on the small screen, Rebecca has also graced films, including Eddie Redmayne’s Oscar-winner *The Danish Girl* and festive favorite *This Is Christmas*, as well as the brand new Clive Owen miniseries, *Monsieur Spade*. Her versatility across genres and formats speaks volumes about her skill and adaptability, showcasing her ability to fit into a wide array of narratives. She consistently delivers strong performances in varied roles, making her a true pioneer in breaking down cinematic barriers and expanding the scope of what’s possible.
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3. **Zach Barack**Alright, superhero stans, gather ’round! Prepare to be amazed by Zach Barack, who carved out a piece of history for himself by becoming “the first out trans actor to star in a Marvel film.” How cool is that, right? He played Zach in the Tom Holland and Zendaya-starring film, *Spider-Man: Far From Home*, adding a layer of crucial representation to one of the biggest franchises in the world.
This isn’t just about a cameo; it’s about seeing a trans actor integrated into the fabric of a universally loved story. His role in *Spider-Man* wasn’t about his transness; it was about being part of the high-stakes, web-slinging action that defines the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It’s a powerful message for trans youth everywhere: you can be a part of these fantastical worlds, too, simply by being you and being talented.
And if you don’t instantly recognize his face, perhaps you’ll know his voice! The 28-year-old American actor is also the voice of lead character Barney Guttman in Netflix’s “joyously queer (and unceremoniously cancelled) animated series, *Dead End: Paranormal Park*.” This demonstrates his range and impact across different mediums, from live-action blockbusters to animated series where he leads the charge, all with his identity being celebrated, not confined. He’s a trailblazer for sure!
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4. **Tyler DiChiara**Another one for all you superhero enthusiasts out there – let’s hear it for Tyler DiChiara! This 24-year-old actor and openly gay trans man truly shone as Cullen Row in The CW’s 2023 series *Gotham Knights*. Even though the show “got canned so quickly” – sigh, we know the feeling! – Tyler’s performance was definitely “one of the stars who truly made [it] worth watching.”
Cullen Row’s character in *Gotham Knights* was a significant role for Tyler, marking his first big TV appearance. The context doesn’t specify if Cullen Row was a trans character, implying that Tyler was simply playing a character in the DC universe whose storyline wasn’t centered around their gender identity. This is exactly what we mean by trans actors leading non-trans storylines – showing their incredible range and talent without being pigeonholed.
For a gay trans man to land such a prominent role in a major network superhero show is incredibly meaningful. It pushes the boundaries of representation, allowing viewers to see diverse talent in action-packed, high-stakes narratives. While *Gotham Knights* might have had a short run, it’s clear that it was just the beginning for Tyler DiChiara. As the context confidently states, it “will undoubtedly not be his last” big role, continuing to break ground in Hollywood.
5. **Morgan Davies**Prepare to be thrilled by the versatile Australian actor Morgan Davies, who absolutely rocked 2023 with a pair of incredibly diverse roles! Last year, he was highly praised for bringing “trans moron representation” to the horror genre, starring as the “hapless Danny” in *Evil Dead Rise*. Talk about breaking stereotypes – playing a character who’s simply trying to survive a terrifying ordeal, completely separate from any discussions of his identity!
That role was quite possibly his biggest to date, showcasing his ability to immerse himself in intense, visceral storytelling. But then came *One Piece* on Netflix, one of the streaming platform’s “most critically lauded releases of 2023,” and Morgan’s star exploded even further. He plays Koby in the series, a determined cabin boy with dreams of becoming a Marine – a character whose journey is all about adventure, ambition, and navigating the high seas.
What’s truly remarkable about Morgan’s work in *Evil Dead Rise* and *One Piece* is how these roles exemplify trans actors excelling in mainstream, genre-defining productions without their characters’ narratives being solely about their transness. He’s simply an actor playing a character, bringing depth and relatability to figures that resonate with vast, global audiences, whether they’re screaming in a horror film or sailing toward a grand adventure. And he’ll be back for season two, too!
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6. **Mary Malone**Next up, let’s turn our attention to the fantastic London-based actress Mary Malone, who’s been having a truly stellar run! If you’re a fan of British television, you’ve likely spotted her in some incredibly popular shows. 2023 was a massive year for her, featuring prominently in the hit ITV drama *Vera* and then captivating audiences as Trudy in the iconic *Doctor Who* Christmas special, *The Church on Ruby Road*.
These are exactly the kinds of mainstream, high-profile roles that demonstrate the immense talent of trans actors beyond identity-specific narratives. Playing characters like Trudy in *Doctor Who* allows Mary to contribute to storied franchises that are part of the cultural fabric for generations. Her storylines in these shows are not focused on her trans identity, but rather on the adventures, mysteries, and relationships inherent to the plots.
And if her television success wasn’t enough, Mary has also made a significant mark on the theatre stage, starring in Abigail Thorn’s *The Prince* at London’s Southwark Playhouse. Looking ahead, 2024 is already shaping up to be spectacular, as she’s set to appear in *Missing You*, the Harlan Coben adaptation on Netflix, alongside acting titans. Her continued rise signals an exciting future where trans actors are increasingly recognized for their pure talent.
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7. **Bobbi Salvör Menuez**Rounding out our first section, let’s celebrate the incredible Bobbi Salvör Menuez, an American actor who’s been making waves with their captivating performances! While the context notes they are “relatively unknown” to most Americans despite starring alongside “big hitters including Kathryn Hahn in I Love Dick, Sydney Sweeney in Euphoria, and Margaret Qualley and Michaela Jaé Rodriguez in 2019 film Adam,” their talent is undeniably making an impact.
But 2023 was a truly defining year for Bobbi, as they delivered “one of their best-ever performances” alongside *Bodies Bodies Bodies* star Amandla Stenberg in the enthralling werewolf thriller, *My Animal*. This role, playing Heather, a werewolf with a troubled family background, is a perfect example of a non-trans storyline that allows Bobbi to showcase their dramatic range in a unique, genre-bending narrative, completely separate from their identity.
The film dives into a “lycanthropic lesbian love story,” a rich and complex human experience that resonates universally. It demonstrates that trans actors can command leading roles in genre films and tell compelling stories that prove talent should always be the priority. Bobbi identifies as trans and uses they/them pronouns, and their consistent work in diverse projects is crucial, championing the idea that trans actors are simply actors, ready to take on any challenge Hollywood throws their way.
8. **Miya Ocego**Get ready to swoon over British trans actress Miya Ocego, who’s been making some serious waves in the queer horror scene and beyond! If you’re into big, bold, and brilliantly queer shows, you might already know her from Ryan J Brown’s BBC comedy slasher series, *Wreck*. She absolutely slays as Rosie Preston, the cruise ship entertainer, Cher impersonator, and general all-around badass.
What’s truly groundbreaking about Miya’s role in *Wreck* is how the show handles her character’s trans identity. In the second season, Rosie reveals she’s trans, and in a wonderfully refreshing step forward for representation, the narrative moves on without making it the *sole* focus of her entire being. It’s a powerful statement that shows trans characters can have rich, multifaceted lives and storylines that extend far beyond their gender identity.
But Miya’s talent isn’t just confined to battling slashers on a cruise ship. She’s also known for starring as trans model and pioneer Ashley April in Channel 4’s 2021 documentary, *The Extraordinary Life of April Ashley*. Talk about a role that honors queer history! Plus, she took on the role of Alexa Dennis in Billie Piper’s BAFTA-winning comedy series, *I Hate Suzie*, proving her versatility in navigating both dramatic and comedic realms.
With her incredible range and commitment to impactful roles, Miya is definitely an actor to keep on your radar. The context confidently predicts we should “Expect to see her on your screens a whole lot more in the years ahead,” and we couldn’t agree more! She’s a shining example of trans talent thriving across diverse genres and showing us all what’s possible.
9. **Ash Palmisciano**Next up, let’s give a shout-out to the charming British actor Ash Palmisciano! If you’re a fan of British soaps, you’ll undoubtedly recognize him from his award-winning role as Matty Barton, the beloved barista stirring up drama (and coffee!) for the residents of *Emmerdale*. His portrayal has not only captivated audiences but also made history on the long-running show.
When Ash joined *Emmerdale* in 2018, he became the soap’s first-ever trans actor, with Matty becoming its first trans character. This was a massive step for representation in a beloved mainstream show, bringing trans stories and faces into millions of homes. While Matty is a trans character, his daily life as a barista and his various storylines extend far beyond his gender identity, making him a truly integrated and relatable part of the Emmerdale community.
But Ash’s talents aren’t limited to the Dales! He’s also flexed his acting muscles in several short films, showcasing his ability to adapt to different narrative styles. Plus, he made an appearance in the BBC sitcom *Boy Meets Girl* back in 2016, further broadening his television experience before his *Emmerdale* fame.
For those who love the stage, Ash Palmisciano has even graced the hallowed halls of theatre. He played a knight in the 2016 adaptation of *King Lear* at the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre, right in Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-upon-Avon. From classic theatre to daily soap opera, Ash is proving that talent knows no bounds and that trans actors can excel in any role.
10. **Ian Alexander**Prepare to be amazed by Ian Alexander, an American actor who, at just 22 years old, is already making some serious history in the sci-fi and animation worlds! While he might not be a household name just yet, his impressive resume speaks for itself, and he’s definitely one to watch as he continues to break barriers.
In a truly groundbreaking moment, Ian became the first trans actor to play a trans character in the iconic *Star Trek* universe back in 2020. He has starred in two seasons of the Paramount+ series *Star Trek: Discovery* as Gray, with the show’s highly anticipated fifth season due out in April. While Gray is explicitly a trans character, his journey within the vast *Star Trek* narrative involves complex sci-fi plots, relationships, and galactic adventures that aren’t *solely* focused on his trans identity.
Beyond the live-action galaxy, Ian has also lent his distinctive voice to the Disney Channel series *Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur*, taking on a voice role that broadens his appeal and showcases his versatility across different mediums. Voice acting is a fantastic way for actors to embody characters without their physical identity being part of the on-screen portrayal, further highlighting talent over specific attributes.
And if that wasn’t enough, you might also recognize Ian for his compelling performances as Buck and Michelle Vu in Netflix’s mystery drama series, *The OA*. This role, not explicitly tied to a trans storyline, further exemplifies his ability to inhabit diverse characters in mainstream, critically acclaimed projects. He also voiced Lev in the video game *The Last of Us Part II*, cementing his presence in major pop culture franchises. Ian Alexander is truly a trailblazer, expanding the horizons of representation in exciting new ways.
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11. **Iz Hesketh**Let’s shine a spotlight on the fabulous theatre actress Iz Hesketh, who’s been making a huge splash both on stage and now, excitingly, on our TV screens! Known for her captivating performances in iconic stage shows like *Rent*, *The Book of Mormon*, and *Legally Blonde*, Iz has a commanding presence that translates beautifully across mediums.
Kicking off 2024 with a bang, Iz has dived headfirst into the world of television, and fans of *Hollyoaks* will already recognize her as the vibrant newcomer Kitty Draper. While Kitty plays a key role in the soap’s recent, groundbreaking trans child storyline, which is important, Iz is also making waves elsewhere, embodying characters whose narratives aren’t solely defined by their gender identity.
A prime example of this is her current starring role as the non-binary assistant Valerian in Sally Wainwright’s brand new Disney+ historical adventure series, *Renegade Nell*. Here, alongside *Derry Girls* favorite Louisa Harland, Iz gets to explore a character whose journey is woven into a grand historical adventure, where being non-binary is simply *part* of who Valerian is, rather than the entire plot. This showcases her ability to bring depth to a character within a broader, action-packed narrative.
Iz Hesketh’s career trajectory is a testament to her talent and the growing opportunities for trans and non-binary actors to portray a wide array of roles. Whether she’s captivating audiences on stage or bringing a historical adventure character to life on Disney+, she’s proving that exceptional acting talent knows no gender. Keep an eye on Iz – she’s just getting started!
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12. **Brian Michael Smith**Okay, prepare to celebrate a true pioneer! Brian Michael Smith made absolute history in 2020 when he joined the cast of *9-1-1: Lone Star* on Fox, becoming the first trans man in a series regular role on a network television series in the US. Talk about a monumental achievement that has shattered ceilings!
In *9-1-1: Lone Star*, Brian plays the heroic firefighter Paul Strickland. This is such a fantastic example of a non-trans storyline that allows a trans actor to shine in a mainstream, action-packed role where his character’s daily life and professional challenges are the focus, not his gender identity. We love seeing trans actors in roles that simply celebrate their talent as actors, period. The fifth season of the hit series is currently in production, promising even more thrilling storylines for Paul.
If you’re not already a fan of *9-1-1: Lone Star*, you might have still spotted Brian Michael Smith in other popular shows. He appeared as Pierce Williams in another queer favorite, *The L Word: Generation Q*, and as Toine Wilkins in Oprah Winfrey’s drama series, *Queen Sugar*. These diverse roles highlight his incredible range and ability to contribute meaningfully to different types of narratives.
Beyond his impressive TV work, Brian is also a dedicated advocate. He joined the Board of Directors of the Human Rights Campaign in 2021, showcasing his commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community off-screen as well. He truly embodies the spirit of breaking barriers and showing the world the immense talent and impact of trans men in entertainment and beyond.
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13. **Georgie Stone**Get ready to cheer for Australian actress Georgie Stone, another incredible trans star who knows a thing or two about making history! Her journey is not only inspiring for her acting prowess but also for her pivotal role in advocating for gender-affirming healthcare in Australia.
Back in 2011, when she was just 10 years old, Georgie won a landmark court case in Australia, bravely becoming the youngest person in the country to receive hormone blockers. This groundbreaking achievement paved the way for many other young Australians to access stage one of gender-affirming healthcare, making her an icon long before her acting career truly took off.
Then, in 2019, she made history once again by becoming the first trans actress to star in *Neighbours*, one of the most renowned soap operas in the world. She plays Mackenzie Hargreaves, who is also the show’s first trans character, and continues in the role to this day. What’s truly powerful for our discussion is that “many of her storylines since her introduction haven’t focused on her trans identity, showcasing that trans characters are more than their transness.” This is exactly the kind of mainstream integration and diverse storytelling we celebrate!
Georgie Stone’s ability to portray a character with depth and nuance, whose existence is not solely defined by her transness, is a testament to her talent and the evolving landscape of television. She is a beacon of hope and a powerful force, both on and off screen, proving that authentic representation can thrive in the most beloved of shows.
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14. **Zoe Terakes**Now, let’s talk about the phenomenal Zoe Terakes, an actor who identifies as transmasculine and non-binary and uses they and he pronouns, and who absolutely slayed 2023 with a series of killer performances! Their star is undeniably on the rise, and for good reason.
Most notably, Zoe starred in what many consider the best horror film of 2023: Danny and Michael Philippou’s spine-chilling *Talk To Me*. In this acclaimed film, Zoe played Hayley, a character who pressures the lead, Mia, and her friends into terrifying possessions by an embalmed hand. This role is a prime example of Zoe leading a non-trans storyline, fully immersing themselves in a genre-defining role where their gender identity is completely incidental to the plot.
The film received a truly fantastic response, and Zoe’s profile soared, deservedly so! Their powerful performance earned them the prestigious title of Actor of the Year by *GQ*, cementing their status as a major talent to watch in Hollywood. It’s an incredible recognition for an actor who brings so much authenticity and intensity to their craft.
And guess what? Zoe Terakes’ star is only set to shine brighter in 2024. They’re scheduled to appear alongside *Drag Race* favorite Shea Couleé in Marvel’s upcoming TV miniseries, *Ironheart*. Another major franchise, another opportunity for Zoe to captivate audiences in a role that promises excitement and adventure, further solidifying their place as a force in the industry, showing that trans and non-binary actors belong everywhere!
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15. **Bella Ramsey**Last but certainly not least in our incredible lineup, let’s celebrate the magnificent Bella Ramsey, a non-binary actor who has captivated audiences globally and truly shut down any online haters with their undeniable talent! Most of us first fell in love with Bella when they started stealing scenes in HBO’s epic fantasy series *Game of Thrones* as the fierce and unforgettable Lyanna Mormont.
Lyanna Mormont was a character who embodied strength and leadership, and Bella’s portrayal was nothing short of brilliant. This role, a cisgender character in a wildly popular mainstream fantasy show, is a perfect illustration of trans and non-binary actors excelling in non-trans-specific roles. Bella brought depth and gravitas to Lyanna, proving that talent transcends gender identity.
Following their impactful work on *Game of Thrones*, Bella went on to star in several other excellent projects. However, it was their absolutely fantastic performance alongside Pedro Pascal in the dystopian thriller *The Last of Us* that truly cemented their star status. This show was one of the biggest cultural moments of 2023, and Bella’s central role showcased their remarkable ability to carry a complex, emotional narrative.
Bella identifies as non-binary, describing they/them pronouns as “the most truthful thing” for them. Their journey, from a scene-stealing child actor in fantasy to a critically acclaimed lead in a post-apocalyptic drama, is a testament to their immense talent and resilience. Bella Ramsey is not just changing Hollywood; they’re redefining what it means to be a leading actor in the 21st century, inspiring countless others along the way.
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And there you have it! What an electrifying journey through the performances of these 15 phenomenal trans and non-binary actors who are absolutely redefining Hollywood. From challenging stereotypes in horror films to commanding the screen in epic fantasy and beloved soaps, they are proving, loud and clear, that talent is boundless and deserves every spotlight. While the road to full equality and inclusive representation is still being paved, these stars are building the future, one incredible, boundary-pushing role at a time. It’s an exciting era for storytelling, and we can’t wait to see what groundbreaking performances these amazing individuals bring us next!
