Introduction to nonbinary identity and visibility
Nonbinary people whose gender identity does not align exclusively with man or woman have always existed, yet widespread public recognition is relatively recent. For readers new to the topic, gender is an internal sense of self, while sex assigned at birth is typically based on physical characteristics; a nonbinary person may identify as both, neither, or somewhere between. This article focuses on notable people who describe themselves as nonbinary and how they live and work in public life. When information is uncertain, we rely on statements from the individuals, reputable media on the record, or official sources. Our goal is clarity, accuracy, and respect.
What does nonbinary mean? Key terms and definitions
Nonbinary is an umbrella term for gender identities that are not exclusively man or woman. It is not a single experience; each person’s identity, expression, and transition path can differ. Below are commonly used terms you may encounter.
- Nonbinary: An identity that exists outside the male/female binary.
- Genderqueer: A term some use to express queerness around gender; often overlaps with nonbinary.
- Genderfluid: A gender identity that may shift over time.
- Agender: A lack of gender identity or a neutral gender identity.
- Bigender: Identifying as two genders, whether simultaneously or at different times.
- Transgender: An umbrella term for people whose gender differs from their sex assigned at birth; some nonbinary people also identify as transgender.
- AFAB/AMAB: Acronyms for assigned female/male at birth; used to acknowledge history without defining identity.
Why representation matters: Impact of visibility
Seeing nonbinary people in public roles helps normalize diverse identities, reduces stigma, and can improve mental health outcomes for younger audiences. Representation in media, politics, business, sports, and the arts signals that nonbinary people belong in all areas of life. These shifts are cultural as well as legal, influencing how institutions refer to people, collect data, and design services. Accurate reporting and respectful language matter in this progress.
Notable nonbinary people: Profiles and context
The following people have publicly described themselves as nonbinary and contributed to their fields. Details reflect the information each has shared publicly and when available; we limit sensitive personal data and avoid speculation.
Sam Smith — Singer–songwriter
Sam Smith is an English singer–songwriter who began discussing their gender identity in the late 2010s. In a 2019 interview with Attitude, they spoke about not feeling fully male or female and using they/them pronouns alongside he/him. Smith has said they are exploring identity and took steps socially and medically to align their life. They are also a songwriter and performer, known for vocal range and genre collaborations.
Laverne Cox — Actress and advocate
Laverne Cox, a trans woman and advocate, has discussed the intersections of trans and nonbinary experiences in interviews. She has emphasized that gender diversity includes many identities, and she uses she/her pronouns. As an actress and producer, Cox is best known for her role in Orange Is the New Black and for bringing trans visibility to mainstream audiences.
Indya Moore — Actor and model
Indya Moore is a trans, nonbinary actor and model known for their work on television and in film. They use they/them pronouns and have spoken about the importance of chosen family, community, and self-definition. Moore advocates for trans and nonbinary rights and visibility in entertainment and fashion.
Loren Cameron — Photographer and author
Loren Cameron, a trans masculine photographer and author, has documented trans masculine experiences in their work. They identify as a man and use he/him pronouns; their photography and writings explore gender, embodiment, and identity. Cameron’s books and images are widely used in education and activism.
Halsey — Singer–songwriter
Halsey has described themself as nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns at times, while also using she/her. In interviews and social posts, they have discussed living with bipolar disorder and the importance of authenticity. Halsey’s music often addresses identity, relationships, and mental health.
Jenna Ortega — Actor
Jenna Ortega, an American actor, has stated that they are nonbinary and use they/them pronouns. Ortega has spoken about navigating Hollywood as a young nonbinary person and the importance of representation. They are known for roles in television and film, bringing nuanced performances to varied characters.
Lena Waithe — Writer, producer, and showrunner
Lena Waithe is an American screenwriter and producer who has described herself as queer and gender nonconforming. In public statements, she has discussed her experiences as a Black lesbian woman and the evolving language she uses to describe herself. Waithe works in television and film, creating and producing stories centered on marginalized voices.
Additional figures
Many other artists, athletes, activists, and professionals are openly nonbinary or trans nonbinary. This list is not exhaustive and focuses on people who have publicly selfidentified in ways that media have reported. Names, pronouns, and identities can evolve; we prioritize the language each person currently uses.
How we verify and handle nuance
Because gender identity is personal and sometimes complex, we distinguish between a person’s self description and media reporting. When possible, we prioritize an individual’s own words, official biographies, or statements from their representatives. We also explain what terms mean without presuming any single experience applies to everyone who identifies under a given label. The goal is clarity and accuracy without overgeneralizing.
Practical guidance: Using names and pronouns respectfully
- Ask respectfully and privately when possible; if you must ask publicly, keep it simple and give context.
- Use the name and pronouns a person asks others to use; if you make a mistake, apologize briefly, correct yourself, and move on.
- Avoid assumptions based on appearance; some nonbinary people present more masculine, feminine, or androgynously, and that does not determine their identity.
- Recognize that some nonbinary people also identify as transgender; some do not.
- In written forms, offer multiple pronoun options and allow people to selfdescribe without forcing a category.
Common questions and clarifications
- Is being nonbinary a mental health condition? No. Organizations such as the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association distinguish being transgender or nonbinary from mental illness; distress can arise from stigma and lack of support, not identity itself.
- Do nonbinary people transition? Some do, some don’t. Transition is personal and can include social changes, name changes, pronoun changes, hormone therapy, or surgery; it is defined by the individual.
- Can someone be nonbinary and also use a binary label? Yes. Some nonbinary people also identify as both, neither, or as trans masculine or trans feminine; identity can be fluid.
- How can I learn more without centering myself? Seek out nonbinary creators, read books and articles by nonbinary authors, support organizations, and follow the lead of the community in language and priorities.
Summary and takeaways
Nonbinary famous people contribute across entertainment, activism, business, and the arts, bringing greater visibility to identities beyond the gender binary. Understanding respectful language, recognizing the diversity of experiences, and relying on verified statements from individuals help ensure accurate and empathetic coverage. Representation matters, and careful reporting can support dignity and inclusion for nonbinary people everywhere.