Renowned American actress, businesswoman, and transgender rights advocate, Angelica Ross, has carved a multifaceted career marked by resilience and advocacy. Born on November 28, 1980, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Ross emerged as a self-taught computer programmer before venturing into the entertainment industry. Her journey took a transformative turn as she became the founder and CEO of TransTech Social Enterprises, a groundbreaking firm dedicated to empowering transgender individuals in the tech sector.
Ross's foray into acting commenced with the web series "Her Story" in 2016, a stepping stone to her critically acclaimed roles in the drama series "Pose" (2018–21) and the horror anthology "American Horror Story" (2019–21), both produced by FX. Beyond the spotlight, her personal narrative unfolds against the backdrop of challenging experiences.
When Ross was 17 years old and growing up in Racine, Wisconsin, she struggled to tell her evangelical Christian mother that she was gay. Facing rejection, she confronted a harrowing moment when her mother suggested suicide as an alternative. She persevered, joining the U.S. Navy to access educational benefits. However, harassment under the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell” policy led to her discharge.
Ross's journey of self-discovery and transition began in Roanoke, Virginia, where her mother's initial rejection prompted her to live with her father. Estranged for a period, their relationship mended over time. In Roanoke, she worked as a waitress, saving to attend cosmetology school, before venturing into web development and graphic design.
In the realm of acting, Ross's breakthrough arrived in 2018 with her role as Candy Ferocity in "Pose," earning her critical acclaim. Notably, she made history as the first transgender actress with two series regular roles in "American Horror Story: 1984."
Simultaneously, she delved into the tech world, founding TransTech Social Enterprises in 2014. This non-profit firm, based in Chicago, trains and contracts transgender workers, aiming to bridge the gap in the technology industry. Ross's tech journey began with web management, expanding into graphic design and photography through online tutorials.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Ross is a staunch advocate for transgender rights and equality. She made history as the first openly transgender person to host a presidential forum on LGBTQ issues in 2019. Her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion extends to her recent Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in "Chicago."
In 2023, Ross announced her departure from Hollywood, citing mistreatment in the industry. Undeterred, she declared her intention to run for public office upon returning to Georgia.
Ross stands as a beacon of change, challenging norms in entertainment and technology. Her journey intertwines personal resilience, professional success, and unwavering activism, making her a pivotal figure in the movement for trans and racial equality.