Marvel to introduce ‘smart, confident and mystical’ trans woman in new series, casting call reveals
Dominique Thorne will portray Riri Williams in Ironheart alongside Zoe Terakes (Marvel)
Marvel’s upcoming Ironheart series will reportedly introduce the first trans woman to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
A casting call for the Disney Plus series has revealed that bosses plan to add a “smart, confident” trans woman into the mix.
According to POC Culture, the character will have “a mystical bent and unique sense of humour”, and be “unapologetically nerdy about things that excite her…even if they might be terrifying to others”.
Marvel bosses are reportedly looking for trans actresses aged 18-22 who are Black, Latina or Afro-Latina.
Ironheart, will tell the story of Riri Williams (played by Dominique Thorne), an inventor who is responsible for creating the most advanced suit since that of Iron Man.
The casting news comes as Marvel’s parent company, Disney, weathers criticism for its stance on Florida’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ law.
The legislation was written into law on Monday (28 March) by Republican governor, Ron DeSantis, and will “prohibit classroom lessons about sexual orientation or gender identity in elementary school”.
Disney, a powerful political player in Florida has vowed to fight the legislation, but only after a series of walkouts and widespread criticism of its donations to Republicans involved with the bill.
Disney CEO Bob Chapek initially refused to issue a company response, but later U-turned and said he would be pausing political donations in the state.
Before Disney came out against the bill, Marvel Studios was one of a number of sub-brands to break rank with a statement denouncing it.
“We strongly denounce any and ALL legislation that infringes on the basic human rights of the LGBTQIA+ community,” Marvel Studios wrote on Twitter.
“Marvel Studios stands for hope, inclusivity and strength; and we proudly stand with the community. Today, we pledge to continue our strong commitment as allies who promote the values of equality, acceptance and respect.”
