Netflix Marvel series Jessica Jones continues to pave the way for meaningful onscreen representations, being the first title in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to introduce an openly gay character, Jeni Hogarth, in 2015.
Now in its third and final season, the popular series is being celebrated once more for the introduction of character Gillian, played by Indian-American actress Aneesh Sheth.
Speaking to , Sheth said: “I am transgender and the character of Gillian is also trans. But there’s no mention of her being trans within the show, nor a narrative around her identity. Which I think is wonderful because trans people exist in the world and it’s not always about their [trans] narrative."
Sheth continued: “I had a big discussion with Melissa Rosenberg [the show's creator] about where we thought Gillian came from, and her background."
"That’s very exciting as an actor, to be able to have a say in where I want this story to go. Marginalised actors are getting the power to create narratives within shows like this. I think that’s really important.”
Sheth added that she was keen to “avoid sensationalism” in the role.
“How wonderful it is for that person to exist in a show without having to hit it over the head,” she said.
Well, one thing's for sure, fans are loving Sheth's addition to the show.
"Aneesh Sheth on Jessica Jones is everything," one fan tweeted.
"Every time she's on screen I have the urge to say I love her."
