One Broke Actress Podcast: "Hollywood + the Trans Experience: How We as Actors Play Our Role Well"

Release Date: May 2, 2025
Host: Sam Valentine
Guests: Jace Allen and Rainn Valdez

Introduction

In this enlightening episode of the One Broke Actress Podcast, host Sam Valentine delves into the nuanced experiences of transgender and LGBTQIA actors in Hollywood. Joining her are Jace Allen, a non-binary actor and community builder from Kansas, and Rainn Valdez, an out-and-proud Filipino transgender woman, actress, writer, and producer. Together, they explore the challenges, triumphs, and strategies for authentic representation in the acting industry.

Current Representation of Trans and LGBTQIA in Hollywood

Sam opens the discussion by addressing the state of representation in Hollywood, questioning whether trans and LGBTQIA individuals feel seen amidst current storytelling trends. She prompts Rainn and Jace to share their perspectives on the authenticity and depth of trans representation in recent films and television shows.

Rainn Valdez (04:14):
"I think when you're centering a trans character, but focusing on the emotions of what they're going through and not necessarily the identities, you're able to relate to them in a human way."

Jace Allen (07:35):
"I still don't see a place for myself right now in the greater sense of Hollywood. So I think that I'm going to need to create my own work, much like Rain has been doing."

Critique of Recent Films and Representation

Rainn critically evaluates recent films like "Emilia Perez" and "Will and Harper," appreciating their artistic value but highlighting the pitfalls of otherizing trans characters when portrayed through a cisgender lens.

Rainn Valdez (04:14):
"We're still otherizing Harper. We're still focusing on the sensationalization of Harper's transness... it just kind of takes the human aspect out of the character."

Jace Allen (07:35):
"There were elements that were really great, was really artistic, but it made us a joke in a lot of ways too."

Creation and Purpose of ACT Now LA

The conversation shifts to ACT Now LA, an acting studio founded by Rainn Valdez aimed at providing a safe and supportive environment for LGBTQIA and trans actors. Rainn shares the inspiring story behind its creation, emphasizing the need for majority trans and queer representation in acting classes to foster authenticity and reduce the burden of advocacy that often falls on trans actors.

Rainn Valdez (15:15):
"ACT Now LA... create a space that can still harness the intimacy of an acting space, but allow for it to be majority of trans people."

Jace Allen (17:54):
"When I try to explain ACT Now to folks, it's a safer place to get uncomfortable and really get to the root of ourselves as artists."

Navigating the Acting Industry as a Trans Actor

Jace and Rainn discuss the complexities of navigating an industry that often pigeonholes actors based on their gender identity. They explore strategies for authentic self-representation and the importance of creating one's own opportunities when mainstream avenues fall short.

Jace Allen (19:23):
"I felt empowered in the last couple of years of returning to this industry and proudly saying my pronouns when I'm self-taping."

Rainn Valdez (21:08):
"We give our actors a lot of permission to pick roles that are based on their authenticity and not necessarily based on gender."

Support and Advocacy for Trans and LGBTQIA Actors

Sam inquires about actionable steps listeners can take to support trans and LGBTQIA actors. Rainn and Jace emphasize the importance of allyship, advocating for inclusive casting, and creating spaces where trans actors feel valued and protected.

Rainn Valdez (37:43):
"Speak up when we're not around. Make us feel like we belong in any space."

Jace Allen (37:43):
"Advocate for yourself. If it's not met with open ears, it's not for you."

Authentic Storytelling and Self-Representation

The guests highlight the significance of storytelling that transcends identity politics, advocating for narratives driven by universal emotions and authentic experiences rather than focusing solely on character identities.

Rainn Valdez (14:09):
"A short film that celebrates trans femme rituals. It's a romantic comedy, so totally on brand."

Jace Allen (14:40):
"We are artists, we are actors, and we are there to get to the essence of what's on the page."

Creating Opportunities Through Self-Production

Rainn shares her journey of creating her own content to overcome the limitations imposed by mainstream casting practices. She underscores the importance of self-production as a means to showcase talent and build a personal brand that resonates with both agents and audiences.

Rainn Valdez (39:51):
"We encourage our actors to write, shoot, produce, direct, cast themselves in it, and then act their heart out."

Jace Allen (33:38):
"If you want to act and you want it to be about that, then it's really just about showcasing the talent."

Advice for Aspiring Trans and LGBTQIA Actors

Rainn and Jace offer invaluable advice for actors considering transitioning or seeking to integrate their authentic selves into their professional lives. They emphasize the importance of community, self-advocacy, and finding supportive environments like ACT Now LA.

Rainn Valdez (26:33):
"Season the space with belonging. Make us feel welcomed, seen, and heard."

Jace Allen (38:26):
"Find community. Trust the journey and listen to your gut instincts."

Closing and Resources

As the episode concludes, Rainn and Jace provide resources for listeners interested in supporting ACT Now LA or learning more about their work. They share their social media handles and encourage support through scholarships and donations to sustain the inclusive acting studio.

Jace Allen (45:06):
"Our Instagram for ACT Now is @now_la. Visit rainbowrated.com for more information."

Rainn Valdez (45:25):
"Check out my new short film 'Oh, My God' on YouTube. Follow me at @Aignvaldez and ACT Now LA for updates."

Notable Quotes

• Rainn Valdez (04:14):
  "If you're centering a trans character, but focusing on the emotions... you're able to relate to them in a human way."

• Jace Allen (07:35):
  "I'm going to need to create my own work, much like Rain has been doing."

• Rainn Valdez (15:15):
  "We wanted to create a space that can still harness the intimacy of an acting space, but allow for it to be majority of trans people."

• Rainn Valdez (37:43):
  "Make us feel like we belong in any space."

• Jace Allen (38:26):
  "Find community. Trust the journey and listen to your gut instincts."

Conclusion

This episode of One Broke Actress offers a profound exploration of the trans and LGBTQIA experience in Hollywood. Through heartfelt discussions and personal anecdotes, Sam Valentine, Jace Allen, and Rainn Valdez shed light on the importance of authentic representation, community support, and self-advocacy. Listeners gain valuable insights into creating inclusive spaces and the power of storytelling that transcends identity.

For more information and to support ACT Now LA, visit rainvaldez.com or follow Rainn and Jace on their respective Instagram handles.

Timestamps

• Introduction: 00:00
• Current Representation: 03:01
• Critique of Films: 04:14
• Creation of ACT Now LA: 15:15
• Navigating the Industry: 19:56
• Support and Advocacy: 37:43
• Authentic Storytelling: 14:09
• Creating Opportunities: 39:51
• Advice for Actors: 26:33
• Closing and Resources: 45:06

Resources Mentioned:

• ACT Now LA

  • Instagram: @now_la
  • Website: rainbowrated.com

• Rainn Valdez's Short Film: "Oh, My God"

  • Available on YouTube

• Individual Instagram Handles:

  • Jace Allen: @LiveLaugh.Jace
  • Rainn Valdez: @Aignvaldez

Thank you for tuning into the One Broke Actress Podcast. Stay connected and support inclusive storytelling!