Nikohl Boosheri Plays a Queer Muslim Woman on TV—And Is Ready For More Representation

When it comes to the representation of queer Muslim women on television, the offering is few and far between. Well, Freeform is changing the landscape with its hit show The Bold Type.

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The show follows three young women as they navigate the world of the glossy NYC publishing world--but it's one of the character's love interest that's taking this show to the next level. As seen in season one of the show, Kat, played by Aisha Dee, embarks on a new relationship with Muslim, feminist photographer Adena, played by the trailblazing Nikohl Boosheri. It's this storyline--featuring two women of color--that makes this fan-favorite show so powerful.

We caught up with Boosheri for a few minutes ahead of the season two premiere (on June 12) to discuss the significance of her character and the message she hopes to send to women everywhere.

OUT: Tell us about playing an out Muslim lesbian character on television and the significance of representing this community on screen?

Nikohl Boosheri: Muslim women are so often misrepresented on screen, so I think it's really important to see a character like Adena who is just so unapologetic about who she is and embraces the things about her that make her different and complex. We get to see this queer Muslim woman completely in the driver's seat of her life and that's really inspiring.

While your character is a huge step forward for representation, what still needs to be done in terms of the visibility of queer Muslim women on screen?

NB: More queer/female/Muslim/diverse people in the writer's rooms; producing and making decisions on a CEO level.

What message do you hope to send to women that are like your character?

NB: That you're beautiful in all your complexities and you're not alone.

What's your favorite part about playing Adena?

NB: Playing someone who I'm inspired by on a daily basis. She is a badass.

Finally, you're now a series regular on the show, how does that feel?

NB: I get to work with such an incredibly talented and committed group of people in an incredible city. I could not be more excited!

Season 2 of The Bold Type premieres on June 12 at 8 p.m. EST on Freeform.