The Trans Characters That Changed TV and Film

During this Transgender Awareness Week, the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation looks back at some of the characters who have helped push the boundaries of acceptance in film and television.

BY Matt Kane of GLAAD

November 19 2012 1:30 PM ET

Normal (2003)
HBO produced this scripted film about a Midwestern factory worker who comes out as transgender. Tom Wilkinson stars as husband Roy, who announces he is transitioning into Ruth. Though she’s initially shocked, wife Irma (Jessica Lange) eventually decides to stand by Ruth despite rejection by members of their community. Both Wilkinson and Lange were nominated for Emmys and Golden Globes for their roles in the film.