US sitcom Modern Family has cast the first openly transgender child actor on television for an upcoming episode of the popular TV show.
Jackson Millarker, 8, will play a transgender character in scenes with young character Lily during Wednesday night’s episode.
Episode director Ryan Case posted a picture with Millarker on Instagram with the caption: “This is Jackson Millarker. He’s 8 years old, from Atlanta, and just happens to be transgender.”
Modern Family has been commended for featuring a gay couple as lead characters in the family sitcom, with some crediting the show for normalizing gay parents to viewers.
There has also been a generally favorable reaction on social media with many describing it as “awesome” and that such“transgender visibility is critical.”
Article originally appeared on RT News.
