Did you know that the OITNB star is a classically trained dancer?
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY NETFLIX
Laverne Cox is a true icon – a trailblazer, an advocate, and a performer who’s redefined what it means to be a visible and powerful trans woman in Hollywood. While her role as Sophia Burset on Orange Is The New Black catapulted her into the spotlight, there’s much more to Laverne’s journey than meets the eye. Here are six fascinating facts about Laverne Cox that you may not know.
She’s a history-maker in more ways than one
Laverne Cox made history as the first openly trans person nominated for a Primetime Emmy in an acting category. But that wasn’t her only groundbreaking achievement. She was also the first trans person to be featured on the cover of Time magazine in 2014, an iconic moment that solidified her as a leading voice in LGBTQIA rights. Later, in 2020, she became the first trans person to be nominated for an Emmy for the third time for her work on Orange Is The New Black.
She’s a classically trained dancer
Before Laverne was breaking barriers on the screen, she was pursuing a different dream – dance. Growing up in Alabama, she fell in love with ballet and eventually studied classical dance at the Alabama School of Fine Arts. Later, she moved to New York City to study at Marymount Manhattan College, where she also discovered her love for acting. Her background in dance helped her develop the grace and presence she brings to her acting roles today.
Her twin brother played a role in Orange Is The New Black
In Orange Is The New Black, Cox’s character, Sophia, appears in several flashback scenes before her transition. Interestingly, those scenes were not filmed with the help of makeup or CGI, but with her real-life twin brother, M. Lamar, who portrayed Sophia in her pre-transition years. Lamar is a musician and artist in his own right, and he’s spoken about how honoured he was to support his sister in such a groundbreaking role.
She’s passionate about mental health advocacy
As someone who has been open about her struggles with bullying, trauma, and mental health, Laverne is dedicated to raising awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. She’s shared candidly about her own journey with depression and anxiety, and she regularly uses her platform to encourage others to seek help. Laverne is a firm believer in therapy and mental wellness, often reminding her fans that self-care is a revolutionary act.
She has her own Barbie doll
In 2022, Laverne Cox joined the ranks of iconic women who have inspired Barbie dolls created in their likeness. Mattel worked closely with her to design a doll that authentically represented her, complete with a glamorous red gown and a sense of style that reflected her elegance and strength. Laverne’s Barbie is part of Mattel’s Tribute Collection, and it’s seen as a powerful symbol for trans representation in mainstream culture.
She hosts a popular podcast
Laverne’s advocacy work has also taken her into the world of podcasting. She hosts The Laverne Cox Show, a podcast that dives into everything from social justice and trans rights to mental health, relationships, and self-empowerment. In each episode, she interviews thought leaders, activists, and artists, encouraging open and meaningful conversations. For Laverne, the podcast is a way to deepen her connection with fans and explore the issues closest to her heart.
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