17 TV Shows That Cast Non-Binary Actors in Roles Written as Binary

Over the past few years, TV shows have become much better at representing different genders and how actors are chosen. Casting directors are now focusing more on an actor’s skill and how well they fit the part, rather than just matching them to the character’s original gender. This has led to fantastic performances by non-binary actors playing characters who were originally written as men or women, adding new layers and complexity to everything from fantasy shows to medical dramas. Here are some series that showcase non-binary actors successfully taking on traditionally gendered roles.

‘House of the Dragon’ (2022–Present)

I’m completely captivated by Emma D’Arcy’s portrayal of Rhaenyra Targaryen. She plays the rightful heir to the Iron Throne, but it’s heartbreaking to watch her constantly fight to prove herself against so many men. D’Arcy really brings Rhaenyra to life – she’s both a fierce mother and incredibly strong politically, especially as the civil war heats up. What I love most is the weight D’Arcy brings to the role; it really grounds the story during this chaotic period known as the Dance of the Dragons. You can truly feel Rhaenyra’s loneliness as a woman trying to lead in a world dominated by men.

‘The Last of Us’ (2023–Present)

Bella Ramsey stars as Ellie Williams, a teenager who might hold the cure for a deadly fungal outbreak that has destroyed much of the world. Alongside Pedro Pascal, Ramsey powerfully portrays Ellie as a tough yet vulnerable survivor making her way through a broken United States. The show respects Ellie’s original story while giving Ramsey the chance to bring a lot of emotional depth to the character. Audiences have especially loved the chemistry between Ramsey and Pascal as their characters battle both terrifying creatures and dangerous groups of people.

‘The Crown’ (2016–2023)

Emma Corrin played Lady Diana Spencer in the fourth season of the show, depicting her journey from a young, shy teenager to the iconic Princess of Wales. Corrin powerfully showed Diana’s difficulties adjusting to the intense pressures of royal life and the breakdown of her marriage. Her performance was highly praised for accurately capturing the late princess’s unique way of speaking and her overall personality. This portrayal was central to a season that largely focused on the private struggles within the Windsor family.

‘Hacks’ (2021–Present)

I’m really captivated by Carl Clemons-Hopkins’ performance as Marcus in the show. He plays Deborah Vance’s COO, and it’s such a fascinating role. Marcus is a gay cisgender man who’s completely devoted to handling Deborah’s career, and Clemons-Hopkins brings this amazing understated quality to him – a real dry wit and a sense of dignity. It’s cool how the character feels so grounded, especially when everything around him is so chaotic with the comedians. Plus, it was really meaningful to see such a prominent role for a non-binary actor in a major comedy series – a real step forward!

‘Yellowjackets’ (2021–Present)

In this thrilling survival story, Liv Hewson plays young Van Palmer, a high school soccer goalie who finds herself stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. Hewson portrays Van as a strong and devoted person who repeatedly faces life-or-death situations. The story also delves into Van’s connection with Taissa and her growing belief in the mysterious, supernatural events happening around them. Even though the team faces incredibly difficult circumstances, Hewson brings a compelling mix of strength and humor to the role.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005–Present)

Sara Ramirez spent over ten years playing Dr. Callie Torres on the popular medical drama. Callie is a talented orthopedic surgeon who deals with both personal and professional difficulties while working at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. Throughout the series, Ramirez portrayed Callie through significant life events, including marriage, divorce, and raising a child. Fans loved the character for her strength and ability to cope with difficult situations in the hospital. After leaving the show, Ramirez publicly shared that they are non-binary.

‘Younger’ (2015–2021)

Nico Tortorella plays Josh, a tattoo artist who becomes Liza Miller’s love interest. Initially, Josh believes Liza is around the same age as him. Tortorella brings a likable and vulnerable quality to the role as Josh deals with the challenges of dating someone who is keeping a big secret. The show tackles issues of ageism and being true to yourself, all set against the backdrop of New York City’s publishing scene. Interestingly, Tortorella, who openly discusses gender fluidity, plays a character who presents as traditionally male.

‘Atypical’ (2017–2021)

I absolutely love Brigette Lundy-Paine as Casey Gardner! She plays this really relatable high schooler, Sam’s younger sister, who’s also a fantastic runner. It’s so cool to watch Casey figure things out – she deals with all the usual high school stuff like relationships, but also some really honest family moments. The show does a great job of showing her explore who she is, including her sexuality. Brigette just nails the role, bringing both humor and a lot of heart to Casey – it’s why so many people connect with her character.

‘Trinkets’ (2019–2020)

Quintessa Swindell stars as Tabitha Foster in this teen drama, which is adapted from a novel by Kirsten Smith. Tabitha seems to have it all – she’s rich and popular in high school – but she secretly attends meetings for shoplifters. Swindell shows how Tabitha tries to appear perfect while secretly dealing with a difficult relationship and problems at home. The series centers on the surprising friendship that develops between three very different girls. Swindell gives a complex and insightful performance, revealing the hidden depths of a character who doesn’t seem like much at first.

‘Batwoman’ (2019–2022)

Ruby Rose starred as Kate Kane in the first season of the show. As Batwoman, Kate Kane – Bruce Wayne’s cousin – dedicates herself to protecting Gotham City. Rose portrayed the superhero as a powerful and capable fighter driven by a strong moral compass. The character also explores her identity as an openly gay woman while facing off against the supervillains threatening the city. This was a significant role, marking one of the first times a gender-fluid actor has led a major network superhero series.

‘Homecoming’ (2018–2020)

In the second season, Janelle Monáe plays a woman who finds herself adrift in a rowboat with complete amnesia. She later discovers she’s actually named Alex, but goes by Jackie while trying to figure out who she is and what happened. Monáe delivers a compelling performance, portraying Jackie’s mystery and drive as she uncovers a shadowy conspiracy involving the Geist Group. The character is a former military member caught in a complicated scheme, and Monáe expertly brings a feeling of suspense to the show’s thrilling and psychological storyline.

‘Scream: The TV Series’ (2015–2019)

Bex Taylor-Klaus stars as Audrey Jensen in the TV series based on the popular horror franchise. Audrey is a filmmaker who’s exploring her sexuality and finds herself at the heart of a mystery involving a killer in Lakewood. Taylor-Klaus portrays Audrey as someone who keeps her feelings hidden but is fiercely devoted to her friends. The show delves into Audrey’s family history and her efforts to prove her innocence. Taylor-Klaus skillfully combines the scary aspects of the story with the character’s internal struggles.

‘Vida’ (2018–2020)

Ser Anzoategui stars as Eddy Martínez in this East Los Angeles-set drama. Eddy is the widow of the main character’s mother and runs the bar they shared. Anzoategui beautifully portrays Eddy as a strong, yet vulnerable, lesbian woman mourning the loss of her wife. The show explores themes of gentrification and what it means to be queer within the Latinx community. Anzoategui brings a deeply emotional performance to the role, especially as Eddy attempts to build a relationship with her late wife’s distant daughters.

‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2021–Present)

Cara Delevingne appeared in the second season as Alice Banks, an art gallery owner who develops a romantic connection with Mabel, played by Selena Gomez. Delevingne brings a sense of elegance and mystery to the artist, and her character encourages Mabel to explore a new form of art therapy by destroying her own creations. Delevingne skillfully plays Alice with the right amount of uncertainty, making her a believable suspect in the show’s comedic murder mystery.

‘It’s a Sin’ (2021)

This drama centers on Ritchie Tozer, played by Olly Alexander, and the HIV/AIDS crisis in London. Ritchie is a young, aspiring actor who moves to the city to find himself and live openly. Alexander brilliantly portrays Ritchie’s energetic personality and his struggle to accept the seriousness of the epidemic. The series unfolds over ten years, showing the highs and lows of Ritchie’s life and the lives of those he considers family. Alexander’s deeply moving performance is the heart of this emotional miniseries.

‘Black Mirror’ (2011–Present)

In the ‘Black Mirror’ episode ‘Rachel, Jack and Ashley Too,’ Miley Cyrus plays Ashley O, a hugely popular singer secretly controlled and exploited by her aunt and manager. Cyrus portrays both the glamorous public image and the struggling artist underneath, highlighting the dangers of fame and the increasing influence of artificial intelligence. She draws on her own experiences as a musician to make the character feel real and relatable.

‘Under the Bridge’ (2024)

Lily Gladstone stars as Cam Bentland, a police officer investigating the disappearance and murder of a teenager in British Columbia, in this gripping true crime drama. Gladstone plays Cam as a strong and determined investigator who battles challenges within the police force. The character was written specifically for the show to explore the real-life tragedy through a fictional story. Gladstone delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, bringing both quiet intensity and a strong sense of justice to the investigation.

Please share your favorite performance from this list in the comments.

2025-12-07 01:17