Tyra Banks will be producing an eight-episode docuseries, entitled TransAmerica, that will follow a group of transgender women living in Chicago. According to The Hollywood Reporter (THR), “The series is described as an earnest look at a group of millennial women — who happen to be transgender — living, loving and building their careers. The series will explore how their sexuality impacts their lives.”
The series will feature raising transgender model and activist Carmen Carrera, who began her rise to fame as a cast member in the third season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. For the series, which is scheduled to premier in late 2014 or early 2015, Carrera will lead the cast of five women in the hourlong episodes. Banks (America’s Next Top Model) will executive produce alongside Gay Rosenthal (Behind the Music, Push Girls, Little People, Big World).
Related: Carmen Carrera: Victoria’s Secret Update
“It would be easy to focus on the transgender aspect, but this series is about so much more,” said Susan Levison, the executive vp of programming for VH1, told THR. “This is a show about a group of compelling, gorgeous young friends who are on a unique journey while staying true to their authentic selves. We believe that message resonates.”
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Carrera, who is currently living in her home state of New Jersey, will be relocating to Chicago to serve as a role model for the cast. Additionally, the series is set to have cameos from other well-known transgender people, including writer and actress Calpernia Adams.
“TransAmerica is a groundbreaking docuseries that will blow the roof off stereotypes and set the record straight as we experience the lives of these fun, stunning women. I am so happy to be a part of telling their fierce story,” Banks said to THR. Rosenthal expressed to THR, “I am thrilled to partner with Tyra in telling the story of these incredible women and to make this unprecedented series.”
The series will be produced by Banks for the Tyra Banks Co.; Rosenthal will supervise for Gay Rosenthal Productions and Mark Schulman for 3 Arts; and VH1’s supervisors will be Levison and Nina L. Diaz.
“Being a woman means everything to me,” Carrera told THR. “Before my transition I felt trapped, and now I’ve been set free. Carmen has arrived and I can’t wait to share my story.”
Related: Carmen Carrera Gets Nude for the Life Ball 2014 Poster (NSFW)
Here’s what THR shared about the cast:
[quote]Signed to Elite Model Management, Carrera is on the path to becoming a supermodel. Recognized as a leading advocate in the transgender community, Carrera is constantly balancing her career goals with her personal life and reminding others of the importance of friendship. Now this Jersey girl is ready to take the Windy City by storm.
“A recent college graduate, Giselle is focused on continuing her education and applying to graduate school. As she prepares for her upcoming sexual reassignment surgery, Giselle is set on finding her perfect man in Chicago.
“Natalia is a beauty consultant for Christian Dior cosmetics. She is faced with the challenge of trying to reconnect with some of her family and gaining their support.
“Sidney is the ultimate party girl. Struggling with the idea of juggling a social life and professional goals, she is focused on finding her true direction in life.
“Victory dreams of becoming a doctor but must deal with the discrimination she receives as a transgender woman. Nevertheless, she won’t allow others to step in the way of her goals.”[/quote]
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