Top 10 Iconic Non-Binary Characters in Film & TV

The new version of “One Day at a Time” updated a decades-old sitcom premise for modern times. One of the most significant ways in which it did so was by bringing in a character who was openly non-binary. Syd, played by Sheridan Pierce, is the “Syd-nificant other” to teenage daughter Elena. While their gender identity is an important part of themselves, it’s not the only part. They’re also a voracious fan of shows like “Doctor Who,” as well as a devoted partner to Elena. On top of that, they’re a great pet parent to their chinchilla, Roxy. Why can’t every high school sweetheart be as cool as Syd?

Cartoon Network’s “Craig of the Creek” has been praised for providing meaningful representation, particularly with regards to LGBTQ+ characters. Angel José, voiced by Angel Lorenzana, is the young proprietor of the Creek Daycare. They’re also non-binary, using they/them pronouns. Lorenzana, who’s also a storyboard artist and writer for “Craig of the Creek,” is agender, just like their animated counterpart. Angel’s presence further contributes to the richness of the diverse “Craig of the Creek” cast. This representation, both in the series and behind the scenes, makes their presence all the more impactful. Angel might only be a kid, but they demonstrate wisdom beyond their years.

The fifth iteration of the “Degrassi” franchise was a continuation of “The Next Generation,” but it also shook things up with some new characters. Among the most notable students to join Degrassi Community School was Yael Baron. They’re someone who cares about a lot, but who’s still coming to terms with themselves. In the show’s fourth and final season, Yael tells best friend Lola about their ambivalence when it comes to identifying as either female or male. This leads to Lola proposing that they may be genderqueer or genderfluid, a concept that winds up resonating with them. While “Degrassi: Next Class” sadly ended only a few episodes later, we’re glad it was able to provide such good representation for the non-binary community.

Another Cartoon Network show known for great LGBTQ+ representation is “Steven Universe.” Creator Rebecca Sugar specifies that Garnet and the rest of the Gems are non-binary women, like themself. There’s also Stevonnie — voiced by AJ Michalka of Aly & AJ — who’s a fusion of Steven Universe and Connie Maheswaran. While Stevonnie is formed through two pre-existing characters, they’re still their own being, one who shows just how complex gender really is. Even with limited appearances, they still have a major effect on "Steven Universe" and its fanbase. We may not be able to fuse with each other, but we can certainly learn from one another.

As a family of adopted children with superpowers, the Hargreeves already know they’re not a typical brood. And there’s more to them than their extraordinary abilities. The rebellious and sarcastic Klaus can communicate with the dead. But actor Robert Sheehan has a deeper understanding of his role, seeing the character as not strictly adhering to either masculinity or femininity exclusively. Though the show has established Klaus as being part of the LGBTQ+ community, it hasn’t overtly declared them as falling outside the gender binary. But when discussing his character’s gender, Sheehan has said that Klaus “just sort of… is.” This added complexity from the actor makes an already great character even more compelling.

You might have some childhood nostalgia about the ‘80s cartoon series “She-Ra: Princess of Power.” But the 2018 reboot takes things up a notch in terms of storytelling, animation, and representation. Developer ND Stevenson is non-binary, and they’ve been open about the show’s queer themes. In the fourth season, we were introduced to the non-binary Double Trouble. Voiced by genderqueer LGBTQ+ rights activist Jacob Tobia, Double Trouble is a green shapeshifter who lives up to their name, causing problems through their abilities. Some have taken issue with the character’s villainous nature as well as the potential association of being non-binary with being alien. Stevenson has responded to this criticism thoughtfully, and we look forward to how they further develop non-binary characters in future projects.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has a huge cast of characters with a whole lot of storylines to cover. While God of Mischief Loki didn’t have an emotional coming-out scene, the character, so memorably portrayed by Tom Hiddleston, has been established as falling outside the gender binary. In a promo posted on the Loki TV series' Twitter page, his file from the Time Variance Authority is shown. In the "Sex" section, he's listed as "fluid." This idea for Loki to be genderfluid has roots in Norse mythology. The ability to morph into different genders and species has always been a vital part of the figure, and Marvel honors that. If someone says being genderfluid is a new concept, just point them in Loki’s direction.

British dramedy “Sex Education” has been widely praised for its nuanced depiction of teenagers and diversity. One of the best examples of this is in the character of Cal Bowman, played by actor and musician Dua Saleh. Like Saleh, Cal is non-binary. Introduced in the third season, they’re initially a bit difficult to read. But we soon get to know Cal as proudly non-binary, a great artist, and talented skateboarder. They've also formed a meaningful - if complicated - bond with Jackson Marchetti. We have much to look forward to as “Sex Education” continues its run, and seeing Cal’s character develop further is at the top of our list.

Not only is Disney Channel’s “The Owl House” incredibly inventive and full of great characters, but it’s also teeming with representation. Raine Whispers is notably the first non-binary Disney Channel character. Voiced by non-binary actor Avi Roque, Raine is the Bard Coven’s Head Witch. Though they have a high rank, the character sometimes struggles with their confidence. But they're also strong-willed when they need to be, advocating for witches to not be forced into covens. Their relationship with Eda Clawthorne may not have worked out entirely, but the two still have a special bond. Raine might be the Disney Channel’s first non-binary character, but we’re certain they won’t be the last.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Joey Riverton, “Good Trouble” (2019- )
This Radio Host & Love Interest of Alice Came Out as Non-Binary in Season Two

Kai Bartley, “Grey’s Anatomy” (2005- )
The Long-Running Medical Drama’s First Non-Binary Doctor Joined the Cast in Season 18

Violet Harper, “Young Justice” (2010- )
Also Known as Halo, They Have Not Adhered to Male or Female Labels

Asher Berdacs, “Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts” (2020)
Dahlia’s Twin Is Non-binary, as Is Voice Actor River Butcher

Non-binary representation in television has thankfully been picking up in recent years. And the biggest catalyst for this change has arguably been Taylor Mason, the first openly non-binary main character in a mainstream North American TV series. They’re played by non-binary actor Asia Kate Dillon - who also played the gender nonconforming “Adjudicator” in “John Wick: Chapter Three”. Taylor is a financial whiz who tends to be several steps ahead of everyone else. We first meet them in the second season premiere, with the show wisely establishing their smarts as well as their gender identity. Taylor quickly became an essential member of the “Billions” cast, as well as a trailblazer for representation. And that’s priceless.