Nickelodeon has cast its first openly transgender teenage actor for the first time in the network's 44 year history.
Sasha Cohen, 13, will make history by starring in an episode of the comedy TV series, Danger Force, that's set to air on June 19, Variety reports.
Sasha told the publication:
"I had never felt comfortable about who I am, and I always thought that I would never play a transgender role. But there are so many kids out there who need to see someone like them - a role model who has the ability to put themselves out there."
"I want Sasha to see his own power as an actor and as a human," Michael D. Cohen, who stars in the series, said.
"I want him to feel proud of his work and feel real confident in himself in every aspect and to know that he will help change kids' lives by being the first kid of trans experience on Nickelodeon in live-action."
In an interview with Time Magazine in 2019, Michael, who is not related to Sasha, explained that he transitioned two decades ago.
He launched the Trans Youth Acting Challenge in December of last year to give more opportunities to transgender and nonbinary young people who want to work in the entertainment industry.
Sasha managed to beat over 200 applicants to be accepted on one of Nickelodeon's 15 spots.
Nickelodeon’s executive vice president of programming and content strategy Paul DeBenedittis said: "It has long been Nickelodeon’s mission to be a home for all kids and to authentically represent them in their full diversity.
"This episode of Danger Force ultimately tells a relatable story of friendship, openness, and trust, through the lens of sitcom. We're incredibly proud of it and of everyone involved."
Sasha's twin sister, Natalie, is also set to star in the episode, Indy100 reports.
Sasha is clearly excited about the upcoming episode and took to Instagram to share his enthusiasm by posting a picture of himself, his sister Natalie, and co-star Terrence Little Gardenhigh.
He wrote: "I had so much fun working on danger force and I can’t wait to see the episode!"