Most Famous Black Trans Actors

Black trans men are shaping film and television with roles that widen what audiences see—and who gets to be seen—on screen. From network procedurals to prestige dramas and indie projects, these actors have broken through with memorable performances, first-of-their-kind milestones, and steady advocacy within the industry. Here are some of the most widely recognized Black trans male actors and the work that put them on the map.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith became widely known for playing Toine Wilkins on Ava DuVernay’s ‘Queen Sugar’, a pivotal appearance that led to higher-profile television roles. He later portrayed Pierce Williams on ‘The L Word: Generation Q’ and Paul Strickland on ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’. With ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’, Smith became the first openly Black trans man cast as a series regular on U.S. broadcast network television. His credits also include early appearances on ‘Girls’, ‘Blue Bloods’, and ‘Law & Order: SVU’.

Marquise Vilson

Marquise Vilson drew attention with a guest role as Sgt. Jim Preston on ‘Law & Order: SVU’, where he brought lived experience to a storyline centered on identity and service. He has since appeared on ‘Blindspot’ and ‘The Blacklist’, and his film work includes ‘Ben Is Back’ and ‘The Kitchen’. Vilson’s career spans screen and advocacy, with profiles noting his longstanding visibility as a trans man in the arts. He has also been featured by cultural institutions documenting trans media history.

Skyler Cooper

Skyler Cooper is an actor and filmmaker whose work spans stage, television, and independent film. He wrote and directed the award-winning short ‘Hero Mars’ and has appeared in Cheryl Dunye’s ensemble film ‘The Owls’ as well as ‘Elena Undone’. Cooper’s career also includes television appearances and consulting, with an emphasis on expanding complex roles for trans and gender-expansive performers. His official bio highlights decades of work giving visibility to Black queer and trans narratives.

Laith Ashley

Laith Ashley is a Dominican-American model, actor, and recording artist who transitioned into screen roles after early recognition in fashion. On television, he appeared as Sebastian in an episode of ‘Pose’, adding to the show’s landmark casting of trans performers. His screen credits also include work on projects like ‘Absolute Dominion’, alongside ongoing music and advocacy. Ashley’s profile underscores cross-industry visibility, from campaigns to scripted roles.

If we missed someone you think belongs here, drop their name and favorite role in the comments so others can discover their work too!