Caitlyn Jenner
Rocketing to global acclaim by clinching a gold medal at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Caitlyn Jenner is not only a renowned television personality, author, and former Olympic decathlete but also a dedicated activist. After her triumphant win, her fame soared as she starred in "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" from 2007 to 2017.
In April 2015, Caitlyn unveiled her identity as a transgender woman, undergoing a widely publicized, brave transition. Her poignant journey, spotlighted in the documentary series "I Am Cait," diligently followed her experiences and the reactions of her extensive family and the global community, marking a significant chapter in transgender visibility and acceptance.
Chaz Bono
Growing up in the spotlight as the child of the iconic duo Sonny and Cher, Chaz Bono swiftly entered the limelight. While he initially came out as a lesbian in 1995, it was between 2008 and 2010 that he embraced his male identity, capturing hearts and minds through the intimate documentary, "Becoming Chaz."
More than just an entertainer, Chaz emerged as a valiant champion for the transgender community, candidly sharing his journey in his 2011 book, "Transition: The Story of How I Became a Man." Today, he stands tall as a symbol of resilience and authenticity in the transgender narrative.
Jazz Jennings
Hailing from South Florida, Jazz Jennings emerged as a trailblazer in the transgender and broader LGBTQ community. As one of the youngest documented individuals to openly display her transgender identity, her journey touched millions through the TLC reality series "I Am Jazz." Beginning her transition when she was just six years old, she tirelessly fights against discrimination and champions transgender rights.
Outside of television, this young star also shines on YouTube and as an accomplished author, penning works like "I Am Jazz: A Memoir" and "Being Jazz: My Life as a (Transgender) Teen." Her advocacy has elevated her to global platforms, including the United Nations and the White House.
Gigi Gorgeous
A native of Montreal, Gigi Gorgeous has become an iconic transgender Canadian runway model, actress, YouTuber, and fervent LGBTQ+ defender. Ascending to fame in 2008 via YouTube, her compelling videos have since amassed over 250 million views. In 2013, Gigi publicly announced her transition on YouTube, broadening her advocacy for the transgender community and inspiring countless others.
Her persistent efforts have significantly bolstered the visibility and representation of transgender individuals, contributing to increased awareness about their issues. Besides her influential activism, Gigi's flair shines in her successful pursuits as a model and actress, solidifying her diverse talents and commitment to change.
Lana Wachowski
Pioneering the cinematic world, Lana Wachowski, one-half of the visionary Wachowski siblings behind iconic films, has not only reshaped science fiction with the groundbreaking Matrix trilogy, co-authored with sister Lilly but has also forged a path of inspiration within the transgender community. Growing up in a working-class milieu, Lana grappled with her identity, feeling misaligned with her assigned gender at birth.
Venturing into creative endeavors, the siblings made waves with the movie script for "V for Vendetta." Lana's 2012 revelation as a transgender woman was monumental for high-profile transgender figures, accentuating the need for visibility. Her journey underscores the essence of acceptance and self-realization.
Jenna Talackova
With her roots tracing back to Vancouver, Jenna Talackova skyrocketed to fame in 2012 with a fierce strut and even fiercer determination. Initially barred from the Miss Universe Canada pageant due to her transgender identity, Jenna didn't just sashay away. She challenged the rules and made history by becoming the first transgender woman to grace the pageant's stage.
But this dazzling diva isn't just about high heels and high stakes. She's also an actress, having sparkled in "Transgender Models" and "Becoming Us," and passionately penned her transformative journey. A trailblazer, Jenna is an icon of visibility, acceptance, and fierce tenacity.
Trace Lysette
From Dayton's streets to the dizzying lights of TV stardom, Trace Lysette's journey is nothing short of fabulous. This powerhouse came out swinging in shows like "Transparent" and the voguish "Pose." Known not just for her killer on-screen charisma, Trace's 2011 revelation as a transgender woman carved out a path for others seeking visibility and acceptance.
Early life may have served her a cocktail of challenges, but by the time she sashayed into New York City, there was no stopping her. With "Pose" celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, Lysette's portrayal of Tess, a clothing store saleswoman, left everyone gagged. Werk, Trace!
Josie Totah
Cue the spotlight for Josie Totah, the sparkling American starlet who hails from the glam world of Los Angeles. Known for her acting chops in "Jessie" and "Champions," she dazzled fans with her talent. But in 2018, Josie emerged as a radiant and empowering icon for another reason: she publicly showed her identity as a transgender woman, blossoming as a voice for visibility and acceptance.
Despite early struggles with her identity, she's now confidently rocking the world on-screen and off. As an undeniable fan favorite, Josie's triumph is a beautiful script of courage, authenticity, and stellar success in the spotlight.
Zaya Wade
Strutting onto the scene with unmatched poise and authenticity, Zaya Wade is not just basking in the glitz of being basketball legend Dwyane Wade's child. At 13, Zaya bravely announced her truth to the world in 2020 as a transgender girl. Her confidence and eloquence caught the spotlight, making her a vibrant symbol for young transgender individuals navigating their personal journeys.
Championed by her supportive family, Zaya's story underscores the importance of acceptance, love, and understanding. While her narrative is still beautifully unfolding, her impact is already undeniable. In a world craving genuine narratives, Zaya slam-dunks as an inspiration for many!
Alexis Arquette
Roll out the glitz and the glam, and let's toast to Alexis Arquette: the starlet with sequins in her soul and revolution in her heels! Born into the showbiz-infused Arquette clan, Alexis was more than Hollywood royalty—she was a pioneer. Gracing the big screen from "Pulp Fiction" to the quirky romance of "The Wedding Singer," she also stole the show in roles that echoed her own journey, like the unforgettable "Last Exit to Brooklyn."
Embracing her truth, Alexis transitioned with the world watching, becoming an emblem of courage for the transgender community. Though she passed away in 2016, her legacy blazes on, fierce and fabulous.
Candis Cayne
Dive into the sparkling world of New York's 1990s nightlife and you'll spot a dazzling diva: Candis Cayne! From ruling the dance floor with unmatched flair at Boy Bar, to sashaying onto the big screen with hits like "Wigstock," Ms. Cayne wasn't just a performer—she was an icon. Her tiara moment? Snatching the 2001 Miss Continental crown.
But Candis didn't stop at the drag stage. She burst into mainstream TV, making waves on ABC's "Dirty S*xy Money" as a trailblazing transgender character. Fast forward to "I Am Cait," and she's still turning heads. The verdict? Candis Cayne is more than an entertainer— she's transgender Hollywood royalty!
Leyna Bloom
From the bustling streets of Chicago to the glossy Vogue and Sports Illustrated covers, Leyna Bloom is redefining history one strut at a time. Born in 1994, this radiant force didn't merely join the modeling industry—she revolutionized it! First transgender woman of color to grace Vogue India? Check. First to dazzle on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit? Double check.
And, as if being a fashion groundbreaker wasn't enough, she's nailing the acting game, scoring a Gotham nomination for "Port Authority." Through every click of the camera and line on set, Leyna isn't just posing; she's proving that transgender icons like her are here to stay and slay!
Kataluna Enriquez
Meet Kataluna Enriquez: a beacon of brilliance in the pageant world. Born in the Philippines and now shining in the USA, she's a beacon of beauty and bravery. In 2021, she etched her name in history's pages as the first openly trans woman to be crowned Miss Nevada USA, a victory sweetened by her earlier hand-sewn gown struggles.
Her journey from self-made dresses to the prestigious Miss USA stage, where she broke monumental barriers, is a tale of resilience. Though the coveted crown eluded her, her advocacy strides in healthcare and trans rights are a timeless tiara of triumph. Kataluna, transcending and transforming, one sash at a time.
Sophie Xeon
Dive into the world of Sophie Xeon, the electrifying maestro from Scotland who not only gave hyperpop its fierce pulse but also stamped her mark as a transgender icon. From bedroom mixes in Glasgow to hits like "Bipp" and "Lemonade," Sophie transformed pop's very fabric. And while her tunes were bold, her 2017 revelation of her transgender identity in "It's Okay to Cry" was a fearless crescendo.
Mingling with stars like Madonna and Charli XCX, Sophie was a supernova of talent. Although she passed away in 2021, her impact reverberates—a transgender trailblazer with beats that forever challenge, inspire, and dance on!
Laverne Cox
Swinging onto our screens and hearts, Laverne Cox is America's dazzling actress and fierce LGBTQ+ advocate. From toe-tapping in Alabama and hustling for Diddy, she skyrocketed into the limelight with Netflix's "Orange Is the New Black." Oh, did we mention the Emmy nod? Yep, she's that iconic. To top it off, she was also the first trans model on the cover of Time and Cosmopolitan magazines.
But it's not just glitz and glam—Ms. Cox is on the frontline, weaving advocacy with ethnicity, making the world sit up and listen! From the red carpet to rallies, Laverne isn't just breaking barriers—she's building bridges. And, honey, she's just getting started!
Elliot Page
Elliot Page, hailing proudly from Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a renowned Canadian actor, producer, and writer. Best known for stellar performances in "Juno," "Inception," and "X-Men: Days of Future Past," Elliot continues to captivate audiences worldwide, including his role in Netflix's "The Umbrella Academy."
Announcing his transgender identity in December 2020, he underscored the paramount importance of visibility and accurate representation for the transgender community. Beyond his acting prowess, Elliot's contributions as a versatile producer and writer are commendable, with notable works like "Freeheld" spotlighting his multifaceted talents while steadfastly serving as a respected and inspiring role model for many.
Indya Moore
Stepping out of the Bronx's rhythmic hustle, Indya Moore emerged as a beacon of audacity and authenticity! Swapping the catwalk's flashing lights for the glitz of the silver screen, they took on the role of Angel Evangelista in "Pose," and, honey, they served raw emotion on a sequined platter! While Pose's ballroom sequences were a kaleidoscope of voguing, Indya's Angel was a heartbreakingly human story of resilience.
But wait, there's more! Gracing Elle magazine's cover, voicing non-binary charm in "Steven Universe Future," and launching a production company, their footprints go beyond just acting. Using their stardom as a glittering megaphone, Indya uplifts the voices of the marginalized.
Rachel Levine
From the hallowed halls of Mount Sinai Hospital to the bustling corridors of U.S. governance, Dr. Rachel Levine has done it all with a dash of pizzazz! After transitioning in her early 50s, she wielded a stethoscope and advocated for health, taking her pediatric expertise to new heights as Pennsylvania's Secretary of Health.
But the universe had bigger plans! Answering President Biden's call, Dr. Rachel dazzled in D.C. as the first openly transgender individual confirmed by the U.S. Senate for a federal role. A fierce warrior against discrimination, Rachel isn't just making history—she's sculpting a fabulously inclusive future!
Hunter Schafer
Striding from the runway to our TV screens, Hunter Schafer has brilliantly blurred the lines between advocacy, modeling, and acting. While many were cribbing over high school proms, Hunter was battling against the notorious North Carolina's HB2, a true champion for LGBTQ rights. From gracing the covers in Prada to turning heads in "Euphoria" as Jules Vaughn, her spirit remains unapologetically authentic.
And who can forget her contributions behind the scenes? Writing, producing, and ensuring "Euphoria" resonated with real trans experiences. Every twist and twirl, whether in her fashion choices or relationship tales, Hunter remains an emblem of strength, reminding the world that the future is full of diversity!
Laura Jane Grace
Laura Jane Grace shattered stereotypes as the first openly transgender frontwoman in punk rock. As the band Against Me! leader, Laura gave voice to the transgender community through raw, powerful songs exploring her gender identity. Her courage to transition publicly at the height of her career made Laura a cultural lightning rod.
She chronicled her journey in the memoir "Tranny," providing an unflinching portrait of both the pain and liberation of embracing one's true self. Defying convention and discrimination, Laura's art and activism cemented her as an icon, paving the way for transgender visibility and acceptance. Her defiant spirit encapsulates the rebellious ethos of punk culture.
Valentina Sampaio
Swinging into the spotlight from Brazil, Valentina Sampaio isn't just any model—she's a runway revolutionary! As a youngster, Valentina had her compass set, with fashion on her mind and confidence in her strut. From gracing Vogue Paris to shaking up the Victoria's Secret scene, she's been smashing barriers and hearts alike.
And just when we thought she'd peaked, she splashed onto Sports Illustrated's coveted swimsuit pages! But here's the spicy twist: before her catwalks conquered, her first modeling gig kicked her to the curb for being trans. Now, decked in designers from Jacobs to Armani, Valentina winks at adversity and sashays her way into history.
Peppermint
Strutting straight out of New York City's shimmering drag scene, Peppermint sprinkled sass, talent, and a dash of fabulous flair into the hearts of fans worldwide! Dazzling everyone with her charisma, this spicy diva danced her way into the history books by gracing the runway of RuPaul's Drag Race.
Waving her flag of transgender representation, she wasn't just competing but making history as the first openly transgender contestant! Though she sashayed away with a silver, the crown of love from her fans remains untarnished. And did you know? Amidst the sequins and wigs, our diva dazzled alongside Hollywood stars in the mega-hit "A Star Is Born."
Janet Mock
From the laid-back ambiance of Honolulu, Janet Mock rose powerfully, not just as a writer but also as a trailblazer in the production and passionate advocacy. More than just a Hawaiian touchstone, she penned her transformative journey in "Redefining Realness," resonating deeply with readers. Transition tales and life's tumults became a shared narrative.
But Janet's magic didn't end there. She transitioned to the glittering glamour of TV, becoming the driving force behind FX's "Pose." So, if you seek an icon who masterfully crafts words, shines in showbiz, and advocates fervently, look no further than Janet. Here's to her authentic, radiant brilliance!
Nikkie de Jager
Buckle up, glam enthusiasts, because Nikkie de Jager, our Dutch beauty maestro, is sweeping through the YouTube scene with brushes and a whole lot of brilliance! With a subscriber list as long as a red-carpet runway, our girl NikkieTutorials is not just painting faces; she's painting history.
Growing up in the tulip-adoring Netherlands, she dazzled the world with her shimmering transition story, bringing hope to millions. And if you thought her highlighter game was strong, wait till you hear this: her coming-out video? Oh honey, it out-viewed some celeb scandals! So, the next time you think of legendary icons, remember: Nikkie did it with a contour brush in hand!
Teddy Geiger
Alright, music lovers, gather 'round as we serenade you with tales of Teddy Geiger—the pop prodigy turned trans powerhouse! Emerging from Rochester's rhythmic roots, Teddy gifted us with jam-worthy tunes and penned chart-toppers for stars like Shawn Mendes and One Direction.
But here's the highlight: in 2017, our musical maestra tuned into her heart's melody and embraced her identity as a trans woman. Standing ovation! And just when you thought this hit-maker couldn't surprise you more, Did you know "For You I Will (Confidence)" was her smashing solo debut? That's right! From chart-climbing hits to inspirational journeys, Teddy is the anthem of genuineness!
Brian Michael Smith
Cue the lights and roll out the red carpet because here comes Brian Michael Smith! Born with star power in Canada, he wanted to try his luck in American television—and success welcomed him with open arms! From sneaking into guest roles to conquering "Queen Sugar," Brian brought a magnetic blend of talent and authenticity.
But that's not where his tale ends! 2020 saw him ignite flames—both on-screen and off—as Paul Strickland in "9-1-1: Lone Star," pioneering the portrayal of transgender firefighters. Ending on a high note (because why not?): Brian's not just lighting up screens but also blazing trails for transgender representation!
Alexandra Billings
Step aside, Hollywood! Alexandra Billings is here to sprinkle realness on the silver screen. From battling life's tempests of homelessness and addiction to seizing the stage's limelight, Alexandra's journey is legendary.
The 1990s and 2000s saw her stealing scenes in ER and Grey's Anatomy, but her epic role as Davina in Transparent? Now, that's where the magic happened! Not just an actress, this dazzling diva amplifies her voice for LGBTQ rights, winning hearts and awards like candy! And, a spicy tidbit for the road: our superstar queen is also a skilled singer and has graced many stages with her vocal talents.
Isis King
Hold onto your seats because Isis King is rewriting the fashion sphere! Born in Maryland, this dynamo catapulted into the spotlight as the first transgender contestant on "America's Next Top Model." But wait, there's more! Beyond her fierce catwalk skills, Isis is an advocate, shaking the world with her passion for trans rights.
From TV screens to advocacy stages, she's been a beacon of change, proving that boundaries are meant to be broken. And just when you think you've seen it all, here's a zesty twist: Isis's design skills are equally captivating, as she's a budding fashion designer. Talk about multi-talented!
Eddie Izzard
A British icon, Eddie Izzard has elegantly blended comedy, activism, and boundless courage. This renowned comedian and actor, famed for roles in "The Riches" and "Ocean's Twelve," notably embraces a genderfluid identity, boldly donning makeup and heels in her acclaimed comedy tour, "Dress to Kill."
Her multi-lingual stand-up routines break language barriers, echoing her commitment to unity. Eddie's staggering feats of endurance are as compelling as her performances. Imagine running 43 marathons in 51 days with zero prior experience, all for charity! And let's not forget the 27 marathons in 2016 honoring Nelson Mandela's life. Impressively, she's also tackled her stand-up routines in more than five different languages!
Chris Mosier
Chris Mosier isn't just any athlete—he's a trailblazing duathlete and triathlete! Hailing from Chicago and diving into sports in the 1990s, he swiftly ascended the U.S. rankings. But in 2010, his path took an iconic turn when he came out as transgender. Balancing transition with his passion for competition, he faced hurdles on the track and off it, confronting those questioning his eligibility.
Undeterred, he shattered barriers, making history in 2015 by joining the Team USA sprint duathlon men's team for the 2016 World Championship. Chris didn't just race—he was on a mission for representation, championing transgender rights along the way!