Name
Claudia Charriez
Occupation
LGBTQ+ Advocate, Actress, Model
Short Bio
Claudia Charriez is an actress, model, performer, and LGBTQ+ advocate whose journey has been defined by resilience, authenticity, and creative expression. Realizing she was trans at just 14 years old, Claudia found support and community through Gramercy Park Green Chimneys Children’s Services under the guidance of Dr. Garry Mallon, who established New York City’s first LGBTQ+ youth group home.
Coming of age during New York’s vibrant ‘90s nightlife era, Claudia worked within the legendary club scene at Limelight and Tunnel alongside icons Steven Louis and Peter Gatien. Her modeling career began after being discovered by renowned photographer Peter Beard, leading her into the world of high fashion. She was also part of the iconic House of Xtravaganza, where mentors Hector and Carmen Xtravaganza helped shape her artistic identity and sense of community.
Claudia made history as the first trans model to appear on America’s Next Top Model. Though initially disqualified because of her identity, she later returned to win “America’s Next Top Transsexual Model” on The Tyra Banks Show — a groundbreaking moment that highlighted both her perseverance and the industry’s evolving understanding of representation.
Her career has since included appearances in Pose and the reality series Strut, as well as acting alongside talents including Billy Baldwin in The Trouble with Billy. Beyond entertainment, Claudia remains deeply committed to advocacy, partnering with organizations supporting LGBTQ+ rights, mentorship initiatives, and trans visibility.
Whether on stage, in film, or through activism, Claudia continues to use her platform to inspire, uplift, and break barriers for future generations.
In each day that we are alive, what are three things you are grateful for?
My husband, my support system, and my community.
Favorite type of music?
My first loves in music were Freddie Mercury and Nina Simone. Hearing songs like Bohemian Rhapsody, I Want to Break Free, and Wild Is the Wind left a lasting impression on me. I’ve also been heavily influenced by artists like Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Alanis Morissette, and so many incredible artists from the ‘90s.
Who would you switch lives with for one day if you could?
Dalai Lama.
Name the biggest pet peeve you have.
Negative energy. I’m a very high-vibrational person, and I value peace, harmony, and tranquility.
How do you psyche yourself up for the day ahead?
Music always sets the tone for me. I’ll listen to Madonna, Whitney Houston, Annie Lennox, or Aerosmith to get energized.
Go-to products in your bag that you can’t live without?
Shiseido skincare has been part of my routine since I was 14, and I never go anywhere without my Dior lip oil.
How do you use Sundays to de-stress from work?
Hiking. I love being in nature.
How would you describe yourself?
I’m resilient, adaptable, and deeply passionate about the arts and LGBTQ+ rights.
