As one of the pioneers of reality TV, Tyra Banks certainly has an eye for spotting a good reality TV show. And it seems like her next one is going to have countless fans talking as a new report reveals that Banks has teamed with transgender activist and model Carmen Carrera to create a new trans-themed reality TV show for VH1.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Banks will executive produce “TransAmerica,” an eight-episode docuseries set in Chicago which will “chronicle a group of Chicago women united by the shared experience of being transgender.” The series will not only cover their lives as transgender women, but also deal with their personal and professional lives as women as they try to make it in Chicago.
Carrera will lead the cast of five transgender women and will act as the mentor to her four other co-stars, which includes Giselle, a grad student, Natalia, a beauty consultant, Sidney, a party girl, and Victory, an aspiring doctor.
“TransAmerica” is a groundbreaking docuseries that will blow the roof off stereotypes and set the record straight as we experience the lives of these fun, stunning women. I am so happy to be a part of telling their fierce story,” Banks said.
“It would be easy to focus on the transgender aspect, but this series is about so much more,” said Susan Levison, executive vice president, programming for VH1. “This is a show about a group of compelling, gorgeous young friends who are on a unique journey while staying true to their authentic selves. We believe that message resonates.”
Carrera, who moved from New Jersey to star in the show, shared her enthusiasm about the series as well.
“Being a woman means everything to me,” Carrera said. “Before my transition I felt trapped, and now I’ve been set free. Carmen has arrived and I can’t wait to share my story.”
We’re excited to see how this turns out and considering that Carrera is involved, there’s a good chance that VH1 has another hit on their hands. – nicholas robinson
