Laverne Cox

# Laverne Cox

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Who / What

Laverne Cox is an American actress and prominent LGBTQ+ advocate. Known for her groundbreaking contributions to television, she has become a leading figure in representation of transgender individuals in mainstream media.

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Background & History

Born on **May 29, 1972**, Laverne Cox grew up in the small town of **New Orleans, Louisiana**. She began her career as an actress in the early 2000s before gaining national attention through her role as Sophia Burset in *Orange Is the New Black* (2013–2019). Her work has been pivotal in breaking barriers for transgender representation on screen.

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Why Notable

Cox is celebrated for her advocacy and activism, particularly in pushing for greater visibility of transgender people in entertainment. She became the first transgender individual nominated for a **Primetime Emmy Award** (for acting) and later won a **Daytime Emmy Award** as executive producer of *Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word* (2015). Her influence extends beyond acting, making her a key voice in LGBTQ+ rights and media representation.

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In the News

As of recent years, Cox remains a prominent figure in discussions about transgender inclusion in Hollywood and society. She continues to advocate for policy changes, education, and support for trans individuals, reinforcing her role as an influential cultural icon. Her work has sparked conversations about gender identity and equality globally.

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Key Facts

**Type:** Person (Actress & LGBTQ+ Advocate)

**Also known as:** None widely documented beyond her professional name.

**Born:** May 29, 1972, in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

**Key dates:**

Early career: Debuted in acting roles in the early 2000s.

*Orange Is the New Black* (2013–2019): First transgender role on a major streaming platform.

**Primetime Emmy nomination** (acting, 2015).

**Daytime Emmy win** (Outstanding Special Class Special, 2015) for *Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word*.

**Geography:** Primarily based in the United States; active in Los Angeles and New York.

**Affiliation:**

Netflix (*Orange Is the New Black*).

LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations (e.g., GLAAD, Human Rights Campaign).

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Links

[Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laverne_Cox)

Sources

• 🔗 Wikipedia

Laverne Cox (born May 29, 1972) is an American actress and LGBTQ advocate. She rose to prominence with her role as Sophia Burset on the Netflix series Orange Is the New Black, becoming the first transgender person to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in an acting category, and the first to be nominated for an Emmy Award since composer Angela Morley in 1990. In 2015, she won a Daytime Emmy Award in Outstanding Special Class Special as executive producer for Laverne Cox Presents: The T Word, making her the first trans woman to win the award.