Zackery Torres, famously known from the hit reality show Dance Moms, has publicly announced their transition. The 22-year-old dancer, who uses they/them and she/her pronouns, shared the exciting news in a TikTok video titled “Life Update,” captivating fans and the LGBTQ+ community alike. This announcement marks a significant step in Zack’s journey and resonates deeply with their experiences in the dance world and beyond.
“I’m transitioning!” Zackery excitedly proclaimed in the video, clarifying, “That means I’m transgender if you didn’t know. My pronouns are they/she, which means that they or she are totally fine.” The dancer also expressed enthusiasm for increased engagement on TikTok, promising more content to come. This personal revelation arrives just ahead of Pride Month, adding extra significance to their courageous step.
For those familiar with Zack’s journey, this announcement is a powerful moment of self-affirmation. Zackery Torres made history as the first male-born contestant on Abby’s Ultimate Dance Competition, a spin-off of Dance Moms. However, their time in the spotlight also brought to light the rigid gender expectations within the dance industry.
In a candid interview with the USC student newspaper The Daily Trojan in 2020, Zackery opened up about the profound impact Dance Moms had on their understanding of gender. “I started seeing all of the expectations that teachers — well-known dance teachers, and well-known choreographers — had for me as a male dancer growing up and at the time identifying as a boy,” Torres shared. The pressure to conform to masculine dance stereotypes, with comments like “Oh, you’re too feminine, you need to dance like a man,” deeply affected Zackery during their formative years on national television.
This experience fueled Zackery’s passion for advocacy and creating a more inclusive dance community. “Everyone always talks about how inclusive the arts communities are. But I’m just not really feeling it. I’m not seeing it on an everyday scale,” they stated, highlighting the need for tangible change and acceptance within the arts.
Bruce McCormick, Zackery’s professor, lauded their courage and vulnerability. “[Torres] embracing their gender identity has been beautiful to witness,” McCormick told The Daily Trojan. He emphasized Zackery’s role in fostering crucial conversations and educating those around them through their openness.
On Transgender Day of Remembrance in November 2020, Zackery solidified their commitment to advocacy, stating on Instagram that their drive comes from a desire to “empower the next generation like the ones before did for me.” They passionately asserted, “Allyship is not a 9am-5pm work shift. It is a life practice,” underscoring the continuous and active nature of support. Zackery expressed gratitude for the unwavering support they’ve received, which empowers them to advocate for themselves and others.
Looking back on their journey, Zackery celebrated their 22nd birthday in March with throwback photos and a powerful message: “This is (and always was) Zackery Lennon Torres (they/she), a transgender, non-binary person🏳️🌈.” They extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported their journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. Zackery Torres’ transition is not just a personal milestone but also an inspiring moment for the Dance Moms community and beyond, showcasing the importance of living authentically and advocating for inclusivity.
