TV Shows That Cast Black Non-Binary Actors in Lead Roles

The television landscape has seen a significant increase in diverse storytelling over the past decade. Showrunners and casting directors are increasingly prioritizing authentic representation for the nonbinary community. This shift has allowed Black nonbinary actors to showcase their talents in prominent and leading roles across various genres. These performers bring unique perspectives and depth to their characters while breaking traditional gender norms on screen. The following list highlights several notable television productions that feature Black nonbinary talent in central or starring positions.

‘The Acolyte’ (2024)

Amandla Stenberg leads this science fiction series as twin sisters named Osha and Mae. The story follows a Jedi investigation into a series of crimes during the final days of the High Republic era. Stenberg portrays the conflicting motivations of the twins as they encounter powerful Force users. This performance marks a significant moment for nonbinary representation in a major franchise. The series explores themes of loyalty and the complexity of the light and dark sides.

‘Homecoming’ (2018–2020)

Janelle Monáe stars as the protagonist in the second season of this psychological thriller. Her character wakes up on a boat with no memory of her identity or how she got there. She must piece together clues to uncover a massive conspiracy involving the Geist Group and their experimental programs. Monáe provides a gripping performance that anchors the mystery and suspense of the entire season. The show utilizes a unique visual style to heighten the sense of confusion and paranoia.

‘Pose’ (2018–2021)

Indya Moore portrays Angel Evangelista in this landmark drama about the ballroom culture of New York City. Angel is a young woman striving for success in the modeling industry while navigating the challenges of her identity. The character’s journey involves finding a chosen family within the House of Evangelista and seeking genuine love. Moore’s performance earned widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and authenticity. This series is celebrated for featuring a large cast of trans and nonbinary actors.

‘Trinkets’ (2019–2020)

Quintessa Swindell plays Tabitha Foster who is one of three teenage girls bonded by their shared shoplifting habit. Tabitha comes from a wealthy background but deals with the pressure of high expectations and an abusive relationship. She finds solace and strength in her friendships with Elodie and Moe as they navigate the trials of high school. Swindell portrays the character with a mix of vulnerability and resilience throughout two seasons. The show explores themes of identity and healing through the lens of unlikely companionship.

‘Monarch: Legacy of Monsters’ (2023)

Kiersey Clemons stars as May in this sprawling adventure series set within the cinematic MonsterVerse. May is a tech expert who becomes entangled in a dangerous quest to uncover the secrets of a mysterious organization. She travels across the globe with a group of survivors while evading massive creatures and government conspiracies. Clemons plays a central role in the ensemble cast as they piece together the truth about their world. The show balances character driven drama with large scale spectacle involving iconic monsters.

‘Rap Sh!t’ (2022–2023)

Aida Osman stars as Shawna in this comedy series about two estranged high school friends who reunite to form a rap group. Shawna is a dedicated lyricist who struggles with the desire for artistic integrity versus the demands of social media fame. The character navigates the complexities of the music industry in Miami alongside her partner Mia. Osman serves as both a lead actor and a writer for the series which offers a fresh perspective on modern musicians. This show highlights the intersection of friendship and ambition in the digital age.

‘We Are Who We Are’ (2020)

Jordan Kristine Seamón stars as Caitlin Poythress in this coming of age drama set on an American military base in Italy. Caitlin is a bold and confident teenager who explores her gender identity and expression throughout the series. The show follows her deep friendship with a newcomer named Fraser as they navigate the complexities of adolescence. Seamón provides a breakout performance that captures the nuances of self discovery and rebellion. This series is known for its atmospheric direction and authentic portrayal of youth culture.

‘Sex Education’ (2019–2023)

Dua Saleh joined the cast of this acclaimed dramedy as Cal Bowman during the third season. Cal is a nonbinary student who challenges the rigid uniform policies and traditional gender norms at Moordale Secondary School. The character forms a significant connection with Jackson Marchetti while exploring personal growth and identity. Saleh brings a grounded and authentic presence to a role that addresses the specific needs of nonbinary youth. The show continues its tradition of tackling complex topics with humor and sensitivity.

‘In Treatment’ (2008–2021)

Quintessa Swindell portrays a character named Laila in the fourth season of this HBO drama. Laila is an observant and guarded teenager who attends therapy sessions with Dr. Brooke Taylor. The episodes consist of intimate conversations that reveal her internal struggles and complex family life. Swindell plays a major role in the season as one of the primary patients receiving treatment. The show is recognized for its minimalist approach and focused character studies.

‘The Eddy’ (2020)

Amandla Stenberg portrays Julie in this musical drama series set in the heart of contemporary Paris. Julie is the daughter of a jazz club owner who moves from New York to live with her estranged father. The character struggles to adapt to her new environment while dealing with her father’s professional and personal crises. Stenberg showcases her range as an actor and singer in a show that blends realism with vibrant musical sequences. The series captures the diverse and chaotic energy of the Parisian jazz scene.

‘Fairfax’ (2021–2022)

Kiersey Clemons provides the voice for Derica in this animated comedy series about four middle school best friends. Derica is an activist and social media influencer who strives to make a positive impact on the world. She joins her friends on various misadventures centered around streetwear and internet fame in Los Angeles. Clemons brings a high energy and charismatic voice to a character who values authenticity in a superficial environment. The show satirizes modern teenage life and the quest for viral success.

‘Accused’ (2023)

J. Harrison Ghee stars as a performer in an episode of this anthology crime series. The plot centers on a legal case where the character must defend their actions in court. This role highlights the personal and professional challenges faced by the protagonist during a high stakes trial. Ghee serves as the primary lead for the standalone story which explores themes of truth and justice. The series features a different cast and legal dilemma in every episode.

‘RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars’ (2012–PRESENT)

Monét X Change is a prominent nonbinary performer who stars in several seasons of this reality competition series. She is recognized for her comedic timing and fashion sense while competing against other top drag artists. Monét became a co winner of the fourth season and returned for the all winners edition to showcase her evolving skills. The show follows her journey through various performance challenges and runway presentations. This series has been instrumental in bringing nonbinary talent to a global audience.

‘Tales of the City’ (2019)

Garcia plays a character named Jake Rodriguez in this revival of the classic series set in San Francisco. Jake is a trans and nonbinary man navigating his relationships and identity within a diverse community. The character faces unique challenges as he undergoes a transition while maintaining his place at Barbary Lane. Garcia brings a sensitive and grounded performance to a role that explores the complexities of queer life. The show emphasizes the importance of chosen family and historical legacy.

‘The Get Down’ (2016–2017)

Jaden Smith plays Marcus Dizzee Kipling in this vibrant musical drama about the rise of hip hop in the South Bronx. Dizzee is a talented graffiti artist who explores his artistic and personal identity within the burgeoning underground scene. The character represents a fluid and expressive approach to gender and fashion during the late nineteen seventies. Smith brings a unique energy to the ensemble cast as they seek fame and creative fulfillment. The series combines historical footage with stylized performances to tell its story.

‘Master of None’ (2015–2021)

Lena Waithe stars as Denise in this comedy series that explores the personal and professional lives of young adults in New York. Denise is the best friend of the protagonist and provides a unique perspective on dating and career ambitions. The character became the focal point of the third season which delved into her marriage and personal struggles. Waithe is known for bringing an authentic and charismatic presence to the role. The series has received praise for its honest portrayal of modern relationships.

‘The Chi’ (2018–PRESENT)

Lena Waithe is the creator of this drama series and has appeared in a recurring role throughout the show. The story follows a group of residents on the South Side of Chicago as they navigate the challenges of their community. The show features a diverse cast of characters whose lives become interconnected through a series of events. Waithe’s influence is evident in the show’s focus on authentic storytelling and character development. The series addresses social issues while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.

‘Ironheart’ (2025)

Shea Couleé joins the Marvel Cinematic Universe in this action series focused on a young inventor named Riri Williams. The story follows Riri as she develops advanced technology and faces off against various threats. Couleé plays a significant role within the ensemble cast of characters in the first season. This production integrates elements of science fiction and magic while expanding the lore of the franchise. The series represents a high profile project for nonbinary performers in the superhero genre.

‘We’re Here’ (2020–PRESENT)

Bob the Drag Queen serves as one of the hosts and mentors in this unscripted reality series. The show follows a group of drag performers who travel to small towns to recruit local residents for a drag show. Bob shares their expertise and personal journey to help participants embrace their own identities and build community. Each episode features heartfelt stories about acceptance and the transformative power of performance art. The series has received multiple awards for its impactful portrayal of queer life

‘Central Park’ (2020–2022)

Kiersey Clemons voices a character in this animated musical comedy series about a family living in the iconic New York park. The show features a variety of original songs and follows the family’s efforts to protect the park from developers. Clemons contributes to the ensemble cast with her vocal performance in various episodes. The series is recognized for its whimsical humor and Broadway style musical numbers. This project showcases the versatility of nonbinary performers in the realm of voice acting

‘Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire’ (2023)

Amandla Stenberg contributes her voice to this animated anthology series that explores futuristic visions of Africa. Each episode features a different story and art style created by various animators from across the continent. Stenberg plays a leading role in one of the segments that focuses on themes of identity and technology. The series is celebrated for its innovation and cultural depth in the science fiction genre. This project provides a platform for global storytelling with a focus on diverse talent.

‘BoJack Horseman’ (2014–2020)

Indya Moore provided the voice for a character during the later seasons of this acclaimed animated adult drama. The show follows a washed up actor who is a horse as he navigates the complexities of fame and mental health. Moore’s role contributed to the diverse cast of characters that interact with the protagonist in Hollywood. The series is known for its dark humor and profound exploration of the human condition. This appearance highlights the demand for nonbinary performers in high quality television.

‘Angie Tribeca’ (2016–2018)

Kiersey Clemons joined the main cast of this satirical police procedural during its fourth season. She portrays Maria Charo who is a highly capable and intelligent member of the detective squad. The show parodies various tropes of the crime genre with deadpan humor and physical comedy. Clemons brings a fresh energy to the ensemble as they solve increasingly absurd cases. The series is noted for its fast paced jokes and commitment to its comedic premise.

‘Transparent’ (2014–2019)

Jari Jones appeared in this groundbreaking drama series that follows a family after their parent comes out as a trans woman. Jones is a Black trans and nonbinary performer who joined the cast during the later stages of the show. The character participates in the communal and personal storylines that define the series. The show is recognized for its focus on gender identity and the complexities of family dynamics. This role helped further the career of one of the most visible nonbinary advocates in the industry.

‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ (2009–PRESENT)

Bob the Drag Queen rose to international fame after winning the eighth season of this competition series. As a nonbinary performer Bob showcased a blend of comedy and social commentary throughout the competition. The victory served as a launching pad for a successful career in television and film. The show follows the journey of contestants as they participate in challenges that test their performance and design skills. Bob remains one of the most successful and recognizable stars to emerge from the franchise.

‘Big Mouth’ (2017–PRESENT)

Kiersey Clemons provides the voice for Gina Alvarez in this animated comedy about the trials of puberty. Gina is a recurring character who deals with the social pressures and physical changes of adolescence. The character is portrayed as confident and independent while navigating middle school relationships. Clemons brings a relatable and spirited performance to a show known for its frank discussions of growing up. The series continues to be a popular and influential part of the adult animation landscape.

‘Neo Yokio’ (2017–2018)

Jaden Smith voices the lead character Kaz Kaan in this animated series set in an alternate version of New York City. Kaz is a wealthy fashionista and demon slayer who balances his social status with supernatural duties. The show parodies luxury culture and anime tropes while exploring the personal ennui of the protagonist. Smith provides a distinct and monotone voice that matches the dry humor of the series. The aesthetic combines vibrant colors with high fashion concepts throughout its run.

Please share your favorite performances from these talented actors in the comments.