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Is Pixar about to introduce its first transgender character?

Pixar’s short film ‘Out’

Delightful news out of animation studio Pixar: the Disney-owned production house has initiated a search for a teen actress to “authentically” voice a trans, youth character in an upcoming project.

Pixar has yet to officially comment on the news, other than to announce a brief character description and casting criteria. The casting notice was verified as authentic by the group Trans March.

“Pixar is casting a youth voice-over role for an upcoming animated project,” the notice reads. “The character, Jess, is a 14-year-old transgender girl. She’s compassionate, funny, and always has your back. We’re looking for actresses 12-17 years old who:

  • Are enthusiastic, outgoing, funny, and energetic
  • Feel comfortable acting in front of a microphone
  • Can authentically portray a 14-year-old transgender girl

If you know a child who fits the description and would like to audition for the role, her legal guardian should contact: [email protected].”

The news comes at a pivotal cultural moment for transgender rights. In recent weeks, several states have passed anti-transgender bills to bar doctors from treating trans youth, prohibit transgender participation in sports, or to allow school officials to inspect the genitals of suspected transgender students.

Pixar introduced a gay character in its film Onward last year, voiced by queer actress Lena Waithe.

Last year, the studio released Out, an adorable, gay-themed short timed around Pride month.

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