Black Trans Models Turned Actors Who Refuse “Tragic” Roles

The landscape of television and film has seen a significant shift as more Black trans models move into the world of professional acting. These performers often prioritize scripts that offer depth and complexity over the stereotypical narratives of pain. By selecting projects that highlight success and humanity they are changing how the industry views trans lives. This movement ensures that the next generation of actors can see themselves in a wide variety of roles.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore began a career in fashion modeling before landing a breakthrough role in the television series ‘Pose’. They have consistently advocated for storytelling that emphasizes the joy and everyday experiences of the trans community. Moore prefers roles that show characters thriving rather than those defined solely by hardship or societal rejection. Their work continues to push the boundaries of how gender and race are portrayed in mainstream media.

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez gained fame for her powerful performance as Blanca Evangelista in the series ‘Pose’. She has worked as a model for several major beauty and fashion brands while building her acting career. Rodriguez often speaks about the importance of portraying trans women as leaders and nurturers within their communities. Her roles emphasize the strength and resilience of the human spirit through a positive and uplifting lens.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson modeled for several years before her breakout as Elektra Abundance in the series ‘Pose’. She has expressed a strong preference for roles that showcase the power and regality of trans women. Her performance shifted the narrative away from victimhood toward leadership and self-determination. Jackson often speaks about the importance of seeing trans people in positions of authority on screen.

Angelica Ross

Angelica Ross transitioned from a successful modeling career into significant roles in ‘Pose’ and ‘American Horror Story’. She is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises and uses her platform to advocate for roles that demonstrate professional success. Ross has stated that she looks for characters with a sense of agency and purpose beyond their gender identity. Her work highlights the intersection of technology and art through a lens of empowerment.

Hailie Sahar

Hailie Sahar is a multifaceted performer who has worked in modeling and music before focusing on television. She is widely recognized for her role as Lulu Abundance in the acclaimed series ‘Pose’. Sahar seeks out characters that are multidimensional and have their own distinct narrative arcs. She believes that representation should include stories of ambition and personal achievement.

Leyna Bloom

Leyna Bloom made history as a model before starring in the feature film ‘Port Authority’. She was the first trans woman of color to appear in the ‘Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue’. Bloom focuses on roles that celebrate the beauty and complexity of trans women of color. She has been vocal about refusing roles that rely on tragedy or violence as plot points.

Amiyah Scott

Amiyah Scott gained a massive following as a model and social media influencer before being cast in the series ‘Star’. She was one of the first trans women of color to have a lead role on a major network television show. Scott has expressed her desire to play characters that are defined by their talent and personality. Her work helps to normalize the presence of trans people in everyday settings on television.

Laith Ashley

Laith Ashley is a prominent fashion model who has successfully transitioned into acting and music. He has appeared in several reality series and music videos that highlight his journey as a trans man. Ashley advocates for roles that depict trans men as romantic leads and confident individuals. He continues to challenge traditional notions of masculinity through his diverse body of work.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith is a veteran actor and model who has appeared in numerous television shows including ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’. He is known for playing strong and capable characters who are defined by their professional skills. Smith often chooses roles that allow him to represent trans men in a positive and grounded way. He has become a trailblazer for trans male visibility in the entertainment industry.

Jari Jones

Jari Jones is a celebrated model and actor who has been featured in major campaigns for brands like Calvin Klein. She is a vocal advocate for body positivity and trans liberation in the arts. Jones chooses acting roles that celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of the trans community. She believes that storytelling should be a tool for empowerment and social change.

Ts Madison

Ts Madison is a media personality and actor who has appeared in films like ‘Zola’. She began her career in the digital space and has successfully transitioned into mainstream entertainment. Madison is known for her bold and unapologetic approach to her roles and public persona. She often plays characters who are confident and take charge of their own destinies.

Peppermint

Peppermint is a renowned performer who has worked in drag and modeling before establishing a successful acting career. She made history as the first openly trans woman to originate a principal role on Broadway in the musical ‘Head Over Heels’. Peppermint seeks out roles that highlight the creativity and resilience of the trans community. She continues to be a mentor for emerging trans artists in the industry.

Miss Lawrence

Miss Lawrence is a fashion expert and actor who has appeared in the series ‘Star’ and the film ‘The United States vs. Billie Holiday’. He often brings a sense of style and elegance to the characters he portrays on screen. Lawrence advocates for roles that allow Black trans and gender nonconforming people to shine in glamorous settings. His work emphasizes the artistic contributions of the community to global culture.

Alexandra Grey

Alexandra Grey is an actor and model who has appeared in ‘Empire’ and ‘Chicago Med’. She is known for her ability to bring depth and emotion to her performances without relying on stereotypes. Grey often seeks out roles that show trans women in professional and familial settings. Her career is a testament to the importance of authentic and nuanced representation.

Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox is a pioneering actor and model who rose to fame in the series ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was the first trans person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category. Cox has been a tireless advocate for moving beyond the “tragic” trans narrative in Hollywood. She continues to produce and star in projects that celebrate trans history and excellence.

Isis King

Isis King first gained national attention as a contestant on ‘America’s Next Top Model’. She has since built a successful career in both fashion and acting with roles in ‘When They See Us’. King focuses on projects that depict trans people as ordinary individuals with extraordinary dreams. She is a vocal supporter of inclusive casting practices in the entertainment world.

Arisce Wanzer

Arisce Wanzer is a high fashion model who has appeared in various reality television programs and films. She is known for her sharp wit and advocacy for trans visibility in the fashion industry. Wanzer seeks out acting roles that reflect her dynamic personality and professional background. She continues to challenge the industry to move beyond tokenism toward true inclusion.

Dominique Silver

Dominique Silver is a model and performer who has appeared in various independent film projects. She is dedicated to representing the beauty and strength of trans women of color on screen. Silver looks for roles that allow her to explore complex emotional landscapes without falling into clichés. She is a rising star who continues to advocate for better opportunities for trans performers.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a global icon who has excelled in music and acting while modeling for top brands. They have been open about their nonbinary identity and their commitment to trans inclusive stories. Monáe often plays characters who are innovative and challenge societal norms. Their presence in major films like ‘Hidden Figures’ and ‘Moonlight’ has had a lasting impact on representation.

Quintessa Swindell

Quintessa Swindell is a nonbinary actor and model who has starred in the series ‘Trinkets’ and the film ‘Black Adam’. They are known for playing characters who are complex and not defined by their gender identity alone. Swindell seeks out roles that allow for a wide range of expression and human experience. Their work represents a new era of gender diverse storytelling in Hollywood.

Eva Reign

Eva Reign is a writer and actor who starred in the film ‘Anything’s Possible’. She has modeled for various publications and brands that focus on inclusive beauty. Reign is vocal about her desire to play characters that experience love and joy on screen. Her breakout role was celebrated for its positive and refreshing take on a trans teenage experience.

Yasmin Finney

Yasmin Finney is a British actor and model who gained international fame for her role in the series ‘Heartstopper’. She has been featured in major fashion magazines and campaigns across Europe. Finney is dedicated to portraying trans characters who are surrounded by love and supportive friends. Her work has inspired a global audience and highlighted the importance of positive teen representation.

Mya Taylor

Mya Taylor is an actor and model who received critical acclaim for her role in the film ‘Tangerine’. She has since appeared in various television shows and independent film projects. Taylor is known for her ability to bring a sense of realism and humor to her characters. She continues to advocate for roles that treat trans characters with respect and depth.

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