Jack of All Arts

Alexandra Grey

Alexandra Grey poses against a neutral background, wearing a light beige, ribbed, off-the-shoulder sweater. Her long, flowing black hair cascades over her shoulders, and her hand rests thoughtfully near her chin. She gazes directly at the camera with a soft, confident expression, showcasing her elegant and poised demeanor.
Alexandra Grey stands outdoors, wearing a fitted red top that contrasts beautifully with her long, glossy black hair. She looks back over her shoulder with a piercing, confident gaze. The blurred background enhances the focus on her poised expression and elegant presence.
Alexandra Grey stands gracefully on the porch of a vibrant, Victorian-style house painted in teal and cream. She wears a flowing, one-shoulder burnt-orange gown with dramatic sleeve details, exuding elegance and poise. The golden sunlight casts a warm glow, enhancing the rich tones of her dress and the architectural details of the house. Her confident stance and serene expression embody strength and sophistication.
Alexandra Grey stands on the porch of a vibrant, vintage-style house painted with teal and white accents. She wears a flowing, rust-orange one-shoulder gown with dramatic, loose sleeves. The sunlight bathes her in a golden glow, emphasizing her confident and elegant stance as she holds onto a decorative pillar.
Alexandra Grey poses confidently in front of a bright blue wall with white accents, wearing a chic, tailored blue blazer dress with white detailing. Her long legs are accentuated by silver high-heeled sandals, and her flowing black hair adds to her striking presence. She stands with one hand on her hip, exuding elegance and empowerment against the vibrant backdrop.
Alexandra Grey laughs joyfully in front of a vibrant turquoise wall with yellow and white accents. She wears a stylish blue blazer dress with puffed sleeves and a wrap design, paired with her flowing black hair cascading over her shoulders. The playful and radiant energy of the photo highlights her charisma and confidence.
Alexandra Grey stands confidently in front of a towering cactus backdrop, wearing a sleek, elegant white halter dress. Her long black hair flows over her shoulders as she crosses her arms, exuding grace and composure. The natural setting contrasts beautifully with her sophisticated appearance, creating a striking and harmonious image.
Alexandra Grey leans gracefully against the ornate porch of a brightly colored vintage house, featuring teal, orange, and white accents. She wears a flowing, rust-orange gown that drapes elegantly around her. Her long black hair cascades over her shoulders, and her serene, confident expression complements the warm and vibrant setting.
Alexandra Grey is pictured in a relaxed moment against a softly lit brick wall background. She wears a pink plaid shirt over a black top, with her long, wavy brown hair cascading over her shoulders. Her calm expression and the gentle lighting create a warm, contemplative atmosphere.
Grey appears in a laboratory setting, wearing a dark blue top. The background features blurred scientific equipment, monitors, and another person in a lab coat working. Her expression is thoughtful and focused, reflecting a professional or intense moment in the scene. The environment suggests a medical or scientific context.
Alexandra Grey poses elegantly on a red carpet, wearing a stunning black halter dress with intricate lace-up detailing on the front. Her sleek, straight black hair frames her face, and her makeup highlights her flawless skin and striking features. The background features subtle event signage, enhancing the formal and glamorous atmosphere.

Alexandra Grey (born January 4, 1991) is an American actress, singer, songwriter, and producer whose career has spanned groundbreaking roles and contributions to representation in the entertainment industry. She is widely celebrated for her work on television, including roles on Empire, Transparent, and MacGyver, as well as her activism for transgender visibility and storytelling.

Early Life

Alexandra Grey was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in foster care. From an early age, she identified as female, though discussing her gender identity within her community proved challenging. Despite these obstacles, Grey found solace and expression in the arts. Her passion for performance emerged early, exemplified when she became the only eighth-grader in her middle school’s production of the musical Once on This Island, performing alongside younger castmates.

Growing up in Chicago’s South Side, Grey’s path to stardom was anything but easy. After graduating from community college, she came out to her foster parents as transgender. This led to her being disowned, compounding the challenges of her already tumultuous upbringing. Determined to follow her dreams, Grey made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles with just $30 to her name. Initially living in an LGBT homeless shelter, she worked tirelessly to establish herself, taking on background roles in TV and film to make ends meet and gain experience.

Career Beginnings

Grey’s acting career took off shortly after her move to Los Angeles. Within six months, she landed her first background role on a film set, a moment she interpreted as a sign of divine encouragement. This was the start of a grueling yet rewarding journey that involved years of taking small roles while living in and out of shelters and working everyday jobs. Her perseverance paid off in 2015 when she auditioned for Lee Daniels’ Star and caught his attention. Though she did not secure the lead role, Daniels promised to cast her in a future project, a promise he fulfilled with her recurring role on Empire.

Television Success

Grey’s breakout role came in 2016 when she was cast as Elizah Parks in the Emmy-winning series Transparent. This performance garnered widespread critical acclaim and helped pave the way for more significant opportunities. She went on to appear in numerous high-profile television series, including:

  • Empire (2015–2020): Grey portrayed Melody Barnes, a trans pop singer and songwriter, in six episodes of the hit Fox drama. Her character’s storyline resonated deeply with audiences, particularly for its authentic representation of Black trans experiences.
  • Chicago Med: Grey played Denise Lockwood, the older sister of head charge nurse Maggie Lockwood, in this NBC medical drama.
  • MacGyver (2016–2021): Grey portrayed Parker Phillips, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
  • Drunk History: Grey earned recognition for her portrayal of Marsha P. Johnson, the legendary LGBTQ+ activist.
  • Code Black: She starred as Beth Jensen, a young queer woman, in an episode that was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award.
  • The Alienist, How to Get Away with Murder, and Doubt: Grey took on diverse guest roles, further cementing her status as a rising star.

Film Roles and Critical Acclaim

In addition to her television work, Grey has shone in film. Her role as Lucy Jones in the short film Miller & Son (2019) earned critical acclaim, including a BAFTA Student Film Award and a gold medal at the Student Academy Awards. She also starred as Gossamer Bryant in Gossamer Folds, a coming-of-age drama set in 1980s Kansas City that explored the bond between a Black trans woman and a young boy. The film was nominated for Outstanding Film – Limited Release at the GLAAD Media Awards in 2022.

Music Career

As a talented singer, Alexandra Grey has performed at numerous pride festivals, opening for artists like Zara Larsson, Kesha, and Jordin Sparks. Her music career complements her acting, adding another dimension to her artistic portfolio.

Advocacy and Representation

Throughout her career, Grey has been a tireless advocate for transgender representation in media. She has spoken out about the importance of casting trans actors in trans roles, highlighting the need for authentic storytelling. Her participation in initiatives such as a filmed letter to Hollywood alongside other trans actors demonstrates her commitment to advancing opportunities for marginalized voices.

Grey has expressed a desire to tell stories about Black trans women, both contemporary and historical, and cites figures like Dorothy Dandridge as inspirations. Her advocacy underscores her broader mission: to ensure that trans individuals, especially trans women of color, see themselves represented on screen.

Legacy and Impact

Alexandra Grey’s career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements, including her trailblazing role as a Black trans actress in mainstream television. Her performances have resonated with audiences and critics alike, challenging stereotypes and expanding representation in Hollywood. Grey’s work, both on and off screen, continues to inspire future generations, making her a pivotal figure in the ongoing fight for equality and inclusion in the entertainment industry.

Selected Filmography

  • Empire (2015–2020) – Melody Barnes
  • Transparent (2016) – Elizah Parks
  • MacGyver (2016–2021) – Parker Phillips
  • Chicago Med – Denise Lockwood
  • Code Black – Beth Jensen
  • Miller & Son (2019) – Lucy Jones
  • Gossamer Folds (2020) – Gossamer Bryant
  • The Alienist – Guest Role
  • Drunk History – Marsha P. Johnson
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