“Non‑Binary, Talented, 17: Why Raegan Revord’s Coming Out Is a Win for Gen Z and the LGBTQ+ Community”

Raegan Revord Talks Living as Their Authentic Self After Coming Out as Non‑Binary

Introduction: Why This Moment Resonates

When a young actor like Raegan Revord steps into the spotlight not just for their craft but also for their identity, it shifts the conversation. It’s not only about the role they play, but the role they choose to live. At just 17 years old, Revord’s public declaration that they identify as non‑binary and use they/them pronouns has rippled across entertainment, representation, and youth culture. In this article, we’ll dig into what that means – for them, for fans, for representation, and for anyone navigating identity in the public eye.

Who is Raegan Revord? Early Life & Career Overview

A Quick Back‑Story

Raegan Revord was born on January 3, 2008, in San Diego, California, and later moved to Los Angeles. They got their big break playing Missy Cooper, the younger twin sister of Sheldon, in the hit TV prequel series Young Sheldon (2017–2024).

Beyond Acting — Writing, Streaming & More

But Revord didn’t stop at acting. They launched their own book club (“Read with Raegan”), and published their debut novel, Rules for Fake Girlfriends, a queer‑young‑adult romance released September 2, 2025. They also streamed online under the alias “SettingSunset” before coming out publicly.

The Announcement: Coming Out as Non‑Binary

Public Confirmation

In September 2025, Revord gave their first full interview discussing their gender identity, confirming they identify as non‑binary and use they/them pronouns.  Revord noted that they had updated their pronouns on social media in January of the same year.

What They Said

They shared this:

“It’s so cool because, growing up, whenever I would see a celebrity or whoever come out as non‑binary or queer or anything, I was like, ‘Oh my God, this is so cool, I see myself in you.’” 
And then added:
“And now it’s so crazy to have that experience where I’m now that person and there might be a kid somewhere who’s like, ‘Oh my God, like, I see myself in you.’”

That swap—from looking up to someone, to being someone—is profound.

Why Timing Matters

At 17 years old, Revord’s coming‑out aligns closely with Gen Z’s rising visibility, the push for greater gender‑inclusive language, and shifts in how media represents identity. It’s not just a personal moment—it has cultural weight.

Living Authentically: What It Looks Like

Daily Life & Public Persona

Revord has begun living publicly under they/them pronouns. On social media and in interviews, they are embracing that shift. For fans who followed the “SettingSunset” Twitch alias and the younger Missy Cooper portrayal, this is a new chapter of alignment between identity and public voice.

Authenticity in Work

Their novel isn’t just a side project—it reflects their values. The story centers on queer love, found family, and youth navigating identity. Revord told People they wrote it partly so readers like them growing up had someone to see themselves in.

Challenges of Young Fame + Identity

Being both a teenager and a public figure isn’t easy. Navigating identity under the lens of fans, industry expectations, and social media adds layers. Revord’s choice to go public is brave, given the pressures of young actors to conform.

Why Representation Matters

Visibility for Non‑Binary Youth

Representation isn’t just “nice to have”—it matters deeply. When Revord saw queer or non‑binary celebrities growing up, they felt seen. Now, they say, they hope to offer that same mirror for someone else.

Media Influence on Identity Formation

When kids or teens see people who look like them—or who share parts of their identity—it fosters self‑acceptance and resilience. Revord’s visibility helps fill a gap.

Shifting Industry Norms

Teen actors publicly identifying outside the binary challenges lingering stereotypes in Hollywood (and streaming). It opens doors for casting, storytelling, and marketing authenticity.

Impact on Their Career and Audience

Role Continuation & Evolution

Even though Young Sheldon ended in May 2024, Revord has reprised the Missy role in the spinoff Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage and indicated they’d return if asked.  Their identity reveal doesn’t halt their career—it adds new dimensions.

Audience Reactions & Fan Support

Fans from Reddit to entertainment outlets are noting the shift. Some express joy and support:

“For the record, Raegan uses they/them pronouns.” 
Others are wrestling with what “non‑binary” means, reflecting wider social conversations.

Brand & Platform Opportunities

With identity, authorship, and streaming under their belt, Revord’s brand is multifaceted. Their willingness to speak about identity, representation, and writing positions them not just as a teen actor, but as a voice for their generation.

What This Means for Young People Watching

Encouraging Self‑Expression

If you’re a young person questioning identity, Revord’s story is a reminder: you don’t have to wait until you “have it all figured out” to live honestly.

The Importance of Safe Spaces

Revord’s online alias and book club show how building community—even anonymously first—can help. Having a space to explore identity matters.

Navigating Coming Out in the Public Eye

Choosing when, how and who to tell is deeply personal. Revord’s example shows that you can set your own pace—even amidst fame.

How Parents, Educators & Fans Can Support

Respecting Pronouns & Identity

One simple but crucial step: using correct pronouns (they/them) when referring to Revord. These details matter.

Encouraging Authenticity in Media Consumption

When teens watch shows or read books, point out characters or creators who reflect diverse identities. Use Revord’s story as a discussion starter.

Being Open to Questions and Growth

Identity labels may evolve. It’s okay for people to learn and change. Support and curiosity beat judgement.

Broader Context: Non‑Binary Representation in 2025

Non‑Binary Identities & Media Trends

The term “non‑binary” describes people whose gender identity doesn’t fall exclusively into “male” or “female.”  Media representation is still catching up. Revord joins a growing list of visible non‑binary voices.

Why Youth Celebs Make a Different Impact

When a teen actor like Revord comes out, it resonates differently—especially with Gen Z viewers who value authenticity and social change.

Potential Industry Shifts Ahead

More non‑binary actors, authors, streamers may follow. This moment could signal a longer‑term shift in how gender is portrayed in entertainment.

Key Takeaways from Raegan Revord’s Journey

Summary of the Road So Far

  • Young actor turned writer and streamer.

  • Publicly came out as non‑binary and uses they/them pronouns.

  • Uses their platform to expand representation and encourage others.

Why It Matters

Representation isn’t just symbolic—it has real impact on identity, visibility, youth empowerment. Revord’s story is part of that.

What’s Next

Revord’s career is still unfolding. With new writing, possible continuing acting roles, and their identity aligned with their public self, they’re in a position to shape their narrative on their own terms.

Conclusion

Raegan Revord’s journey—from child actor on Young Sheldon to a young non‑binary author and visible role model—is more than just a headline. It’s a meaningful moment of transition: personal, cultural, and generational. They have stepped into their truth not just for themselves but for the kid who once looked up at someone else and thought “that could be me.” If you’re navigating identity, supporting someone who is, or just witness to this shift, remember: visibility empowers. Authenticity matters. And every time someone lives their truth openly, it makes the next person’s path a little easier.
Keep watching, keep listening, keep supporting.

FAQs

1. What does non‑binary mean?
Non‑binary is an umbrella term for people whose gender identity doesn’t fit strictly into “male” or “female.” It means different things to different people, and often involves using gender‑inclusive pronouns such as they/them.

2. Which pronouns does Raegan Revord use?
They use they/them pronouns in reference to themselves following their public coming‑out.

3. Why is their coming‑out important for representation?
Because they are young, visible, and part of mainstream entertainment, their openness helps fill a representation gap. They offer a role model for youth who may not have seen someone like them before.

4. Can I introduce their story to teens or in classrooms?
Yes. Their journey touches on identity, authenticity, representation, authorship, and media literacy. It can be a great launch point for discussion on those topics.

5. What’s Raegan Revord doing next professionally?
They released their debut novel, Rules for Fake Girlfriends, a queer YA romance, in September 2025. They also remain open to future acting roles and continue their online presence and community building.

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