‘Modern Family’ Season 8 Casts Transgender Actor Jackson Millarker As Lily's Friend Tom

“Modern Family” Season 8, episode 2 will feature transgender actor Jackson Millarker, 8, in a guest-starring role on Wednesday night’s episode.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, “A Stereotypical Day” will see Lily (Aubrey Anderson-Emmons) spending time with Tom (Millarker) during a playdate. Lily’s parents, Cam (Eric Stonestreet) and Mitchell (Jesse Tyler Ferguson), believe that they are the most openminded and non-judgmental couple, and they want their child to be someone who accepts all types of people. However, they will be shocked to hear Lily insulting Tom.

It is unclear whether or not Lily’s insult has to do with Tom’s physical attributes or the fact that he is transgender. However, it could be the latter, since Cam and Mitchell will give Lily an important lecture about acceptance.

Prior to Wednesday night’s episode, “Modern Family” director Ryan Case shared a photo of herself with Millarker on the set of the hit ABC TV show via Instagram. In the snap, Case introduced Millarker as a young transgender from Atlanta who will be playing the role of Tom. She also said that Millarker is a wonderful person. “One of the many reasons I love being part of this show,” she wrote.

Meanwhile, Variety noted that there are only very few transgender actors featured on television today. “Orange is the New Black” star Laverne Cox will also be starring in the upcoming CBS TV series “Doubt,” which is set to premiere later this year. “Nashville” will also introduce transgender actress Jen Richards in a recurring role. Elliot Fletcher will also be starring in MTV’s “Faking It.” He was previously featured in “The Fosters.” Transgender teen Jazz Jennings currently has her own show, “I Am Jazz,” which airs on TLC.

“Modern Family” Season 8, episode 2 will air on ABC on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 9 p.m. ET.