Geek culture isn’t just about leveling up in super-boss fights, anime marathons, or seeing the new superhero blockbuster—it’s about the individuals behind the narratives and how they shatter boundaries. Over the last 10 years, Hollywood has seen a complete change in its nature, which was only possible by trans people, among them creators, writers, and activists, who have not only challenged the limits but also redefined the concept of representation and brought authenticity to the screen. Now these 10 stars are the trans figures the world can not get out of their minds as they keep on changing not only Hollywood but also the geek culture by their works and each one of their not-to-be-forgotten moments.
10. Scott Turner Schofield
Schofield, so to say, dismantled the casting by introducing himself as the first openly transgender male actor in a daytime soap. He then began the run as Nick on The Bold and the Beautiful. Afterward, he became the leading actor at Studio City and earned an Emmy nomination. Out Magazine described him as one of the “trans influencers of Hollywood,” and his worldwide celebrated The Conductor work sealed his point further.
9. Elliot Fletcher
Fletcher is practically a dream for the genre of television when it comes to nerd culture, as he is the mainstay of the following series: The Fosters, Shameless, and Faking It. Besides, he took part in the reference Disclosure, which talked about the trans figures in Hollywood. Fletcher’s characters are done so that they are complex, humorous, and lovable, to show that trans tales can be as universal as any coming-of-age story.
8. Angelica Ross
Not only has Angelica Ross been breaking dams both through her works and outside the screen, but she has also been the first trans woman to have recurring roles on two series seasons, namely Pose, American Horror Story’s 1984, and Double Feature. Apart from acting, she is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, which is a community of transgender people who are passionate about technology, thus proving that behind-the-scenes representation is equally important as on-screen representation.
7. Indya Moore
Moore’s acting as Angel Evangelista on Pose landed them a listing on Time’s 100 Most Influential People. Outside of acting, they signed with IMG Models, joined William Morris Endeavor, founded their own production company, and continue to fight for marginalized voices. Moore isn’t acting—they’re changing the game from the inside.
6. MJ Rodriguez
Rodriguez swiped hearts playing Blanca Rodriguez-Evangelista in Pose and Angel in the Off-Broadway revival of Rent. Praise and accolades came their way, and their part in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Tick, Tick… Boom! made them more widely known. Each performance exudes grit, heart, and that kind of contagious energy that makes fans feel alive.
5. Dominique Jackson
Before Hollywood stardom, Jackson was a ballroom icon, and her character Elektra Abundance in Pose ushered that universe into the mainstream. She’s also posed for Mugler and Vogue España, proving that style and determination can be as interesting as any film origin story. Jackson’s career arc from ballroom legend to Hollywood star is one that fans cannot help but root for.
4. Hunter Schafer
Schafer’s Jules on Euphoria is the most real representation of trans teens on TV. She’s also a Gucci, Dior, and Chanel model, and an outspoken trans rights activist. Schafer’s characters transcend identity—they’re fully fleshed-out and multidimensional, and they give a new generation of fans someone to see themselves in.
3. Elliot Page
Page’s 2020 coming-out was a turning point in trans visibility. As Viktor Hargreeves on The Umbrella Academy, Page introduced trans masculinity to the world. Their openness regarding gender-affirming care and personal experience has inspired millions of fans to be real, making them both an actor and an activist for a new generation.
2. Lana and Lilly Wachowski
The masterminds behind The Matrix and Cloud Atlas, the Wachowski sisters transitioned as trans women while revolutionizing sci-fi film. Their movies frequently delve into themes that are familiar to trans people, reframing what geek culture can be. Their presence and pioneering efforts have paved the way for other trans artists in Hollywood.
1. Laverne Cox
Cox is a pioneer in every sense. Her work as Sophia Burset in Orange Is the New Black catapulted her to household fame, with her becoming the first trans woman to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy. She has been featured on the cover of Time, won a Daytime Emmy, and is an activist who uses her voice to fight for trans rights and gender justice. She extends her reach from red carpets to the battlefield.
These incredible artists aren’t just shaping Hollywood—they’re transforming how fans see themselves and their stories. Whether you’re deep into gaming, anime, or binge-worthy TV, the next chapter of geek culture is more inclusive, authentic, and inspiring thanks to these trailblazers.