Trans representation in British TV has come a long way—though let’s be real, there’s still plenty of work to do. From groundbreaking dramas to feel-good comedies, UK television has introduced some incredible trans characters and actors, giving us authentic and powerful stories that actually do justice to the trans experience.
So, whether you’re looking for iconic trans-led performances or series that actually get it right, here’s a roundup of the best trans representation on British TV.
1. Heartstopper
Netflix, 2022–present
Character: Elle Argent (played by Yasmin Finney)
This show did what needed to be done. Heartstopper gave us Elle Argent, played by the phenomenal Yasmin Finney, a proud trans woman herself. Elle is more than just a trans character—she’s a fully fleshed-out, loveable teen navigating friendships, romance, and life at an all-girls school before moving to a more accepting space. Her storyline isn’t about struggle or trauma; it’s about growth, love, and friendship. Basically, what every trans teen deserves to see.
2. Butterfly
ITV, 2018
Character: Maxine (played by Callum Booth-Ford)
For those who missed this gem, Butterfly was a powerful miniseries that followed an 11-year-old trans girl, Maxine, as she navigates coming out in a divided household. The series tackled issues like family acceptance, healthcare access, and identity in a deeply emotional yet hopeful way. It was a rare mainstream attempt at telling a trans child’s story with nuance and heart, and while no show is perfect, Butterfly was a step in the right direction for trans narratives on TV.
3. Sex Education
Netflix, 2019–2023
Character: Cal (played by Dua Saleh)
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Season 3 of Sex Education brought us Cal, a non-binary student at Moordale, played by the talented Dua Saleh. Their storyline was refreshingly honest, exploring gender identity, the struggles of being non-binary in a rigid school system, and the importance of boundaries in relationships. While the show isn’t trans-focused, Cal’s presence was an important moment for non-binary representation in mainstream UK television.
4. EastEnders
BBC, Ongoing.
Character: Kyle Slater (played by Riley Carter Millington)
Soap operas aren’t exactly known for getting trans representation right, but EastEnders actually made history in 2015 when Riley Carter Millington became the first trans actor to play a trans character in a British soap. His character, Kyle Slater, was introduced as Stacey Slater’s long-lost brother, and while his storyline was fairly short-lived, it marked a turning point in UK TV for casting trans actors in trans roles.
5. Emmerdale
ITV, Ongoing
Character: Matty Barton (played by Ash Palmisciano)
Unlike some soaps that introduce trans characters for a quick storyline and then drop them (side-eyes most of them), Emmerdale has actually kept Matty Barton in the mix since 2018. Played by Ash Palmisciano, Matty is a relatable, down-to-earth trans man with ongoing storylines about relationships, family, and work—rather than just being the trans character. It’s a great example of what authentic representation should look like.
6. Everything Now
Netflix, 2023–present
Character: Will (played by Noah Thomas)
One of Netflix’s latest gems, Everything Now, introduced us to Will, a trans boy played by Noah Thomas. The best part? His story isn’t a trans trauma narrative—he’s just a cool, charismatic teen living his life. We love to see it.
7. Feel Good
Netflix/Channel 4, 2020–2021
Character: Adam (played by Al Roberts)
Created by and starring Mae Martin, Feel Good delivered some of the most honest queer storytelling on TV. While Adam’s storyline is more subtle, it explores gender identity and trans-masculinity in a way that feels refreshingly real, messy, and unfiltered. The show’s intimate, raw approach to queer relationships and self-discovery makes it a must-watch.
8. The Change
Channel 4, 2023–present
Character: Various, including a non-binary character played by Lo U-K)
This comedy-drama about a woman going through menopause (stay with us!) features trans and non-binary characters without making a big song and dance about it—which, honestly, is how it should be. The representation is natural, funny, and authentic, showing that diverse gender identities can exist in everyday British storytelling without being the sole focus.
Final Thoughts
While we’ve had some solid moments of trans representation in British TV, there’s still a long way to go. More trans-led stories, more casting of trans actors, and more nuanced, well-rounded characters—not just trauma narratives, but stories of joy, success, and love.
So, what’s next? Shows like Doctor Who are leading the way (Yasmin Finney, we love you), and indie productions are stepping up the game. But we still need more. More casual representation. More trans creatives behind the camera. More space for trans joy on screen.
Which British shows do you think got trans representation right? Drop us an email, and let’s keep the conversation going.
Much love,
Nonchalant x