ITV Seeks Transgender Actress for Leading Role in Queen Elizabeth I Series
ITV has issued a groundbreaking casting call for a transgender woman to take on the leading role in its upcoming period drama Majesty, a six-part series that reimagines the life of Queen Elizabeth I. The announcement, made in early April 2026, specifically encourages submissions from actors who identify as transgender women, marking a significant step in inclusive casting for historical television.
A Bold Reimagining of Historical Conspiracy Theories
The series, commissioned back in 2024, is described by ITV as a bold and intriguing alternative history that delves into conspiracy theories surrounding the young Elizabeth I. Rather than a traditional historical account, Majesty explores provocative questions: Was the Virgin Queen hiding a profound secret? How did this embattled princess transform into England's most powerful ruler? The show aims to blend emotional depth with contemporary relevance, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known monarch.
Showrunners William Harper, Joan Rater, and Tony Phelan have emphasized that Majesty is an emotional, funny, and modern-feeling drama about outsiders navigating a dangerous secret that could destabilize England. They describe it as wish-fulfillment storytelling, highlighting how individuals committed to public good can make a difference in tumultuous times.
Casting Details and Character Traits
The casting call outlines the lead character as intelligent, compassionate, brave, witty, charming, and likeable, evolving from a bright child into a strong young woman. While publications like Attitude report this role is for Queen Elizabeth I herself, ITV's announcement focuses on the character's traits without explicitly naming the historical figure. Applicants must be at least 16 years old by July 20, 2026, when filming begins, with production scheduled to run through the end of October.
This move aligns with broader trends in television to diversify casting and explore gender identity in historical contexts. It also taps into longstanding myths about Elizabeth I, such as the Bisley Boy legend, which speculated that the queen was actually a man who replaced the princess after her death from plague.
Historical Context and Cultural Impact
Queen Elizabeth I, who reigned from 1558 to 1603, is renowned as the Virgin Queen for her resistance to marriage and lack of children. Her legacy includes defeating the Spanish Armada and fostering a golden age of culture. Historical records, like a comment from her minister Sir Robert Cecil describing her as more than a man and sometimes less than a woman, have fueled speculation about her identity, making her a fitting subject for this innovative drama.
ITV's casting decision has sparked discussions about representation in media and the creative liberties taken with historical narratives. By prioritizing transgender actors for a leading role in a high-profile series, the broadcaster is challenging traditional casting norms and inviting audiences to reconsider familiar stories through a modern lens.
As of now, ITV has not provided additional comments on the casting call, but the announcement has already generated significant attention in entertainment circles. Majesty promises to blend historical intrigue with contemporary themes, offering a unique take on one of history's most iconic figures while pushing boundaries in television storytelling.
