Nickelodeon's 'Danger Force' Casts First Openly Trans Actor

Nickelodeon is making history on their network by casting an openly trans teenager to star in Danger Force.

It was announced this afternoon that Sasha Cohen would joined the series.

Click inside to read more about Sasha’s role…

According to Variety, the 13-year-old actor will appear in the June 19th episode alongside his twin sister, Natalie.

Michael D Cohen, who is of no relation to Sasha, helped to make the casting possible with his Trans Youth Acting Challenge that was launched in December to help trans and nonbinary youth break into the business.

“I want Sasha to see his own power as an actor and as a human,” Michael told Variety. “I want him to feel proud of his work and feel real confident in himself in every aspect and to know that he will help change kids’ lives by being the first kid of trans experience on Nickelodeon in live action.”

“I had never felt comfortable about who I am, and I always thought that I would never play a transgender role,” Sasha said. “But there are so many kids out there who need to see someone like them — a role model who has the ability to put themselves out there.”

“It has long been Nickelodeon’s mission to be a home for all kids, and to authentically represent them in their full diversity,” Nickelodeon’s Executive Vice President of Programming and Content Strategy Paul DeBenedittis said in a statement. “This episode of Danger Force ultimately tells a relatable story of friendship, openness and trust, through the lens of sitcom. We’re incredibly proud of it and of everyone involved.”

After the news was announced, Sasha shared a photo from the set, of him, Natalie and Danger Force stars Terrence Little Gardenhigh and Dana Heath.

Just two years ago, Michael himself came out as transgender.

Get more info about the show over at JustJaredJr.com!