It’s been three years since the trailblazing show finished, and we still miss it everyday
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY BBC
It’s been three years since Pose aired its groundbreaking finale, yet the show’s characters and the incredible actors behind them continue to live in our hearts. Set in the vibrant ballroom scene of late 1980s and early 1990s New York, Pose made television history with its powerful storytelling, unapologetic queerness, and groundbreaking casting. But what are the stars of this iconic series up to now? Let’s catch up with the cast who helped make Pose a trailblazing hit.
Michaela Jaé Rodriguez (Blanca Evangelista)
As the compassionate, determined mother of the House of Evangelista, Michaela Jaé Rodriguez brought a fierce softness to the role of Blanca, a character who balanced activism, motherhood, and her own dreams of success.
Since Pose, Michaela Jaé has made history as the first openly trans actress to win a Golden Globe, awarded for her starring role in Pose. She continues to break ground with recent roles, including a lead in the Apple TV+ musical comedy series Loot, where her comedic talent shines alongside Maya Rudolph. She also starred in thriller Skincare alongside Elizabeth Banks.
Aside from acting, Michaela Jaé has also delved into the music industry, and her debut album 33 was released earlier this year.
Billy Porter (Pray Tell)
Pray Tell, the emcee with a magnetic presence and a heart of gold, became an unforgettable character thanks to the immense talent of Billy Porter. Billy Porter is an icon in his own right, winning a Grammy, a Tony, and an Emmy. Most recently, he’s ventured into film, with roles in Cinderella as the Fab G, a gender-neutral godparent, and in 80 For Brady, a comedy alongside Hollywood legends. His music career is thriving too, with his debut album Black Mona Lisa receiving critical acclaim. Beyond acting, Porter is a leading voice for queer rights, fashion, and self-expression, redefining what it means to be a star on his own terms.
Indya Moore (Angel Evangelista)
Indya Moore brought vulnerability and strength to Angel, a trans woman navigating love and survival in a hostile world. After Pose, Indya has remained an outspoken advocate for trans rights and the importance of visibility. They’ve taken on diverse roles in projects like Escape Room: Tournament of Champions and groundbreaking intersex film Ponyboi.
As a model and activist, Indya uses their platform to challenge gender norms and speak out on issues of social justice, especially for Black and Latinx trans communities. They are also working on developing their own creative projects, showing that Angel’s resilience was just the beginning for Indya.
Dominique Jackson (Elektra Abundance)
As the fierce, larger-than-life Elektra Abundance, Dominique Jackson left an indelible mark on audiences. Since Pose, Jackson has continued to build on Elektra’s legacy with her roles in shows like American Gods, where her portrayal of Ms. World demonstrated her range and charisma. She’s also been a sought-after model, working with brands that celebrate inclusivity and beauty in all forms. An outspoken advocate for trans rights, Jackson remains dedicated to uplifting the trans community, especially in her home country of Trinidad and Tobago, where she works with organisations to combat discrimination and improve resources for LGBTQIA youth.
Hailie Sahar (Lulu Evangelista)
Lulu, the quick-witted and fiercely loyal sister of the House of Evangelista, was played with flair by Hailie Sahar. Since Pose, Sahar has taken her advocacy for trans representation to new heights. She’s featured in shows like Good Trouble, Eastsiders, and Equal, playing the iconic Sylvia Rivera.
Angelica Ross (Candy Ferocity)
Candy’s bold and rebellious spirit was brought to life by Angelica Ross, who delivered a memorable performance as one of Pose’s most beloved characters. Since then, Ross has become a powerhouse in her own right. She made history on Broadway in 2022 when she became the first openly trans woman to star in a leading role in a Broadway show in the role of Roxie Hart in Chicago.
A staunch advocate for trans rights and tech inclusion, Angelica is the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, an organisation that helps trans people develop tech skills to build meaningful careers. She remains committed to amplifying marginalised voices, using her platform to speak out on social justice issues.
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