Candis Cayne (born June 29, 1971) is an American actress, dancer, and television personality who is widely recognized for her contributions to entertainment and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Born in San Francisco, California, Cayne began her career as a professional dancer and performer in nightclubs and stage productions before transitioning to acting.
Cayne achieved mainstream recognition for her role as Carmelita Rainer on the ABC drama series Dirty Sexy Money (2007–2009), becoming the first openly transgender actress to hold a series‑regular role in a prime‑time network television show. Her television work also includes guest appearances on series such as The L Word, The Cupcake Girls, and The Red Road, as well as a recurring role on the Netflix series The I-Land (2019). In film, she has appeared in titles including The Devil’s Closet (2012) and The Money Pit (1992).
Beyond acting, Cayne has been active in advocacy for transgender rights, participating in public speaking events, documentaries, and media campaigns that address issues of gender identity and equality. She has served as a spokesperson for initiatives such as the Human Rights Campaign and has contributed to documentaries like The Trans List (2013), which profiles the stories of prominent transgender individuals.
Cayne’s early career involved dance performances in venues such as Club Cabaret in New York City and participation in off‑Broadway productions. She has also been involved in reality television, appearing as a contestant on Dancing with the Stars (season 13, 2011) and as a judge on the reality competition series The Cabaret.
Throughout her career, Candis Cayne has been noted for breaking barriers for transgender representation in mainstream media and for her ongoing involvement in artistic and activist endeavors.