This series features Laverne Cox as Sophia Burset, a transgender woman serving time in prison. Orange Is the New Black was groundbreaking for its portrayal of a transgender character as a complex and multifaceted individual. Sophia's storyline explores the challenges she faces in prison, as well as her relationships with her family and fellow inmates. Cox's performance was widely praised and helped to raise visibility for transgender actors and issues.

This family drama series features a transgender character, Cole, who is a friend of one of the foster children. While Cole's storyline is not central to the series, his presence provides representation for transgender youth and allows the show to explore issues of gender identity and acceptance within a family context. The Fosters is known for its diverse and inclusive storylines, making it a positive example of LGBTQ+ representation on television.

Based on Garrard Conley's memoir, Boy Erased tells the story of Jared, a young man who is forced to attend gay conversion therapy. While the film primarily focuses on the harmful effects of conversion therapy on gay men, it also touches upon issues of gender identity and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in conservative religious communities. The film is a powerful indictment of conversion therapy and a call for acceptance and understanding.

This reality television series follows the life of Jazz Jennings, a young transgender woman, as she navigates adolescence, relationships, and activism. I Am Jazz offers an intimate and personal look at the transgender experience, raising awareness and promoting understanding. While reality television can be subject to manipulation, the series has been praised for its positive representation and its ability to educate viewers about transgender issues.

This British comedy-drama series features a diverse cast of characters navigating the complexities of teenage life, including Cal, a non-binary student who challenges the school's outdated gender norms. While Sex Education is not solely focused on transgender issues, its inclusion of Cal's storyline provides a thoughtful and relatable portrayal of gender identity and the challenges faced by non-binary youth.

This miniseries chronicles the LGBTQ+ rights movement from the Stonewall Riots to the Supreme Court's decision on same-sex marriage. While not exclusively focused on transgender issues, When We Rise features prominent transgender characters and storylines, highlighting the contributions of transgender activists to the broader fight for equality. The series offers a sweeping and ambitious look at LGBTQ+ history, reminding us of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the community.

Starring Eddie Redmayne as Lili Elbe, one of the first recipients of gender confirmation surgery, The Danish Girl is a visually stunning period drama that explores Lili's journey of self-discovery and the challenges she faces in a world that doesn't understand her. While the film has been criticized for its casting choice and historical inaccuracies, it brought transgender issues to a wider audience and sparked conversations about transgender history and representation.

Felicity Huffman delivers a nuanced performance as Bree, a transgender woman embarking on a road trip with her estranged son just before her gender confirmation surgery. Transamerica is a quirky and heartwarming dramedy that explores themes of family, identity, and acceptance. While some aspects of the film have been criticized in retrospect, Huffman's performance was widely praised and brought mainstream attention to transgender issues.

This documentary delves into the life and mysterious death of Marsha P. Johnson, a trans activist and a central figure in the Stonewall uprising. Through archival footage and interviews, the film paints a portrait of a fearless and compassionate woman who fought tirelessly for LGBTQ+ rights. While the film's investigation into Johnson's death has been debated, it serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and violence faced by transgender people, particularly transgender women of color, and the importance of continuing her fight for justice.

Shot entirely on an iPhone, Tangerine is a groundbreaking indie film that follows two transgender sex workers as they navigate the streets of Los Angeles on Christmas Eve. With its energetic camerawork, sharp dialogue, and unforgettable performances from Kitana Kiki Rodriguez and Mya Taylor, Tangerine is a refreshing and authentic portrayal of trans life. Sean Baker's direction brings a raw and unfiltered realism to the story, capturing the humor, heartbreak, and resilience of its characters.

A raw and intimate look into the ballroom culture of 1980s New York City, Paris Is Burning is a documentary that has become a touchstone for understanding queer and trans life during a pivotal era. The film introduces us to a cast of unforgettable characters who find community and self-expression on the ballroom floor. While it has faced criticism for its perspective, its impact on popular culture is undeniable, influencing everything from music to fashion to language.

Daniela Vega delivers a mesmerizing performance as Marina, a transgender woman grappling with the sudden death of her partner and the prejudice of his family. This Chilean drama is a poignant and powerful exploration of grief, identity, and resilience. Director Sebastián Lelio handles the subject matter with sensitivity and grace, creating a film that is both heartbreaking and ultimately uplifting. A Fantastic Woman isn't just a film about a transgender woman; it's a film about love, loss, and the fight for dignity.

This groundbreaking documentary on Netflix offers an unprecedented look at transgender representation in film and television. Featuring interviews with leading trans actors, writers, and activists, Disclosure dissects Hollywood's portrayals of transgender people, revealing the damaging impact of stereotypes and the urgent need for authentic storytelling. It’s a powerful and insightful film that will change the way you see transgender people on screen. A must-watch for anyone interested in media studies, social justice, or simply understanding the transgender experience.

FX's Pose is not just a TV show; it's a cultural milestone. Set in the ballroom culture of 1980s and 90s New York City, it features an unprecedented number of transgender actors in starring roles. The series explores themes of identity, family, and survival against the backdrop of the AIDS epidemic. With its dazzling costumes, infectious music, and heartfelt performances, Pose is a celebration of queer and trans life that demands to be seen.