'Raven's Home' Makes Disney Channel History, Introduces First Out Trans Character

Raven’s Home has made history with the first out Transgender character on the Disney Channel!

In the latest new episode, “The Fierce Awakens,” Raven interviews candidates to be her assistant as she starts working in fashion again in her new studio space.

One of those candidates is Nikki, who ends up getting the (unpaid) job.

Though much hasn’t been revealed about the character, other than that she is not very good at her job (yet), actress Juliana Joel who plays Nikki, confirms her character is Trans, just like her.

Learn more inside…

“1st out Trans character on Disney Channel? I can finally share that I’ve joined the season 5 cast of Raven’s Home on Disney Channel !” Juliana shared on Instagram.

She also posted a story she told to Raven Symone on set, which details how she always wanted to be on the Disney Channel, more specifically on That’s So Raven, as it was her favorite show.

However, she didn’t think she could be an actor, let along to be on Disney, and especially because she is Trans.

“I’d never seen an out trans actor or character on the Disney Channel. EVER. Needless to say I cried in my dressing room after walking onto that set the first time,” she said.

“It was a moment where it hit me that I not only get to live out my childhood dream on a version of my favorite show…I get to do it as my authentic self and with a character that is openly trans,” Juliana shared. “But it was really more than just being on the show. With all of the anti-trans hate and narratives in media and society, it was a win.”

“I claimed a dream and space for myself while so much of the world is trying to erase me & my community. And now I get to be that person I wish I had to watch on TV growing up. So never tell yourself it can’t happen because it can, in ways you never dreamt possible.”

The episode was written by Nori Reed, who is a queer writer. (Fun fact: The episode was directed by Sydney to the Max star Ian Reed Kesler!)

“I think I may have created the first ever trans character for the Disney Channel! 🥰😈😜,” she shared on Instagram. “Growing up as a young queer person, I never got to see my own experiences and identity reflected back to me on the TV screen. This unfortunately provided a very clear message: This world isn’t for you.”

Nori continued, “I cannot fully articulate what it means to me personally that now a young queer person in rural America can pop on the Disney Channel and witness a funny, nuanced trans character that they can relate to. And I pray in my heart that they hear the very clear message: You belong in this world and are included.”

To note, this is the first live action Trans character on Disney Channel. Animated series The Owl House featured a Trans, non-binary character, Raine Whispers.

Check out both Juliana and Nori’s full posts below…

ICYMI: This Raven’s Home character will be returning for the show’s upcoming 100th episode!

Another OG That’s So Raven is also set to make a long-awaited return to Disney Channel in the season five finale…