
Transgender icons have significantly shaped Hollywood, breaking barriers and inspiring many. Here are the top 15 transgender icons who have made a lasting impact.
1. Laverne Cox
Best known for her role in “Orange Is the New Black,” Cox is a trailblazer for transgender representation in media.
2. Eddie Izzard
The acclaimed comedian and actor has publicly identified as transgender and has been a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
3. Caitlyn Jenner
With her transition in 2015, Jenner became one of the most visible transgender figures, garnering media attention worldwide.
4. Billy Lee
Star of the reality show “Shahs of Sunset,” Lee is known for bringing awareness to transgender issues within the Asian community.
5. Andreja Pejic
A model and actress, Pejic has also been a significant voice in advocating for transgender rights in the fashion industry.
6. Jazz Jennings
A reality TV star and one of the youngest transgender advocates, Jennings has received widespread acclaim for her openness and activism.
7. Janet Mock
A writer, director, and producer, Mock’s memoir details her life and advocates for transgender visibility and rights.
8. Pose Cast (MJ Rodriguez, Indya Moore)
The entire cast of “Pose” has elevated transgender narratives in popular culture and provided much-needed representation.
9. Tula (Drag Race’s Gigi Goode)
A contestant on “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” Tula has brought a fresh perspective on gender fluidity to mainstream media.
10. Daniela Vega
Vega’s role in “A Fantastic Woman” earned her global recognition and highlighted transgender issues in film.
11. Aydian Dowling
Known for his fitness journey and activism, Dowling uses his platform to advocate for transgender visibility and health.
12. Nikkie de Jager (Nikkie Tutorials)
A makeup artist and YouTube star, Nikkie’s coming out video sparked conversations about gender identity in the beauty community.
13. Laith Ashley
A model and singer, Ashley advocates for transgender inclusivity in the fashion and entertainment industry.
14. Sophia Hasmik
An actress and advocate, Hasmik works to increase representation and awareness of transgender issues in Hollywood.
15. Gwendolyn Ann Smith
A writer and activist, Smith was influential in the creation of Transgender Day of Remembrance, representing the transgender community’s struggles.
Statistical Overview of Transgender Icons in Hollywood
Icon | Field | Influence (Years Active) |
---|---|---|
Laverne Cox | Acting | 2012-Present |
Eddie Izzard | Comedy | 1993-Present |
Caitlyn Jenner | Reality TV | 2015-Present |
Billy Lee | Reality TV | 2012-Present |
Andreja Pejic | Modeling | 2011-Present |
Jazz Jennings | Reality TV | 2013-Present |
Janet Mock | Writing/Producing | 2014-Present |
Pose Cast | Acting | 2018-Present |
Tula | Drag Performance | 2020-Present |
Daniela Vega | Acting | 2017-Present |
Aydian Dowling | Fitness/Advocacy | 2013-Present |
Nikkie de Jager | Makeup/YouTube | 2015-Present |
Laith Ashley | Modeling/Singing | 2015-Present |
Sophia Hasmik | Acting | 2016-Present |
Gwendolyn Ann Smith | Writing/Activism | 1990-Present |
Mind Map of Transgender Icons Impact
- Visibility
- Media Representation
- Acknowledgment of Identity
- Advocacy
- LGBTQ+ Rights
- Health Awareness
- Artistic Influence
- Film & Television
- Fashion Industry


