Historically, trans women were frequently cast in harmful roles that categorized them as .

: Major films like The Silence of the Lambs (1991) and The Crying Game (1992) often depicted trans-feminine characters as deranged antagonists or subjects of "shocking" reveals meant to traumatize cisgender male protagonists.

Today’s media features many prominent trans women who have become household names across music, acting, and social media. The Representation of Trans Women in Film and Television

: Shows like Pose (FX) and Orange Is the New Black (Netflix) have pioneered a new era by centering trans women—particularly women of color—and hiring trans writers and producers. Popular Icons and Content