Ryan Murphy's Pose Casts Record Number Of Trans Actors

American Horror Story creator Ryan Murphy has made television history today, casting the largest number of transgender actors in series regular roles ever for a scripted show (via Deadline). Following what Deadline describes as a "six-month nationwide search led by casting director Alexa Fogel," five transgender actors have landed major roles in Murphy's latest drama series Pose at FX. Angelica Ross (above), Indya Moore (above), Dominique Jackson, Hailie Sahar, and MJ Rodriguez are the stars in question. 

Pose is set in 1980s New York City, and will downtown social scenes, the world of ball culture, and the rise of luxurious lifestyles. Alongside Murphy as co-creators are his creative collaborator Brad Falchuk as well as Steven Canals. American Crime Story's Nina Jacobson and Brad Simpson will executive produce with Alexis Martin Woodall and Sherry Marsh. Silas Howard, a trans activist director, is attached to co-executive produce.

Rodriguez is on board to play Blanca, a theater and film actress. Fans may recognize her from her work on Nurse Jackie, Luke Cage, and The Carrie Diaries. Jackson will portray Elektra, fashion model who is an icon in New York's ball scene; Sahar will play Lulu; and Indya Moore will take on the role of Angel. Ross, who was recently seen on Amazon Studios' Transparent, is set to play Candy. 

Co-creator Canals expressed his excitement about Pose during the casting announcement earlier today. "We are thrilled that Pose pushes the narrative forward by centering on the unique and under-told experiences of trans women and gay people of color," he said. "Ryan has assembled a strong team of storytellers and innovators to collaborate on telling this important narrative. As a Bronx-bred queer writer of color, I'm honored to aid in ushering this groundbreaking show into homes."

The pilot episode of Pose will begin production next month in New York City.