Michaela Jaé Rodriguez

Michaela Jaé Rodriguez began her distinguished career by earning the prestigious 2011 Clive Barnes Award for her critically acclaimed performance as Angel Dumott Schunard in the off-Broadway revival of ‘Rent.’ A graduate of the Berklee College of Music, Rodriguez quickly established herself as a formidable talent in the performing arts. She further expanded her notable stage career with diverse roles in productions such as ‘Runaways,’ ‘Street Children,’ ‘Trans Scripts: Part 1, The Women,’ and ‘Burn All Night.’ Between 2012 and 2016, Rodriguez expanded her work into television, securing impactful supporting roles in prominent series including ‘Nurse Jackie,’ ‘The Carrie Diaries,’ and ‘Luke Cage.’ Her powerful portrayal of ‘Sister Boy’ in ‘Luke Cage’ in 2016 marked a significant and historic milestone, establishing her as the first transgender actress to portray a transgender character within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In the same year, she also garnered recognition with a nomination for Best Actress at the Tribeca Film Festival for her compelling work in the film ‘Saturday Church.’ Her growing industry influence was further recognized in 2019, when Rodriguez became the first openly transgender woman to win Best Actress – Television at the Imagen Awards for her exceptional performance on ‘Pose.’ Her unparalleled and historic work on ‘Pose’ culminated in 2021 when she made international headlines as the first transgender woman to receive an Emmy Award nomination in a major acting category for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. In addition to her acclaimed acting work, 2021 also marked her venture into music with the release of her debut single, ‘Something to Say,’ showcasing her multifaceted artistry and expanding her creative footprint.