Nearly a decade after its original six-episode run on Canada’s OutTV in 2016, The Switch, one of the first sitcoms to feature an all-trans and nonbinary main cast, is being rereleased under a Creative Commons 4.0 license starting August 1, 2025. The full series is now available for free on platforms including YouTube, Vimeo, and Tubi, allowing anyone to download and share it without restrictions.
Created by Amy Fox and Liz Mars, The Switch originally aired in 2016 and was produced through crowdfunding campaigns, particularly on Kickstarter. The series is widely recognized as Canada’s—and potentially the world’s—first scripted sitcom centered on trans narratives, with transgender actors cast in all trans roles.
The show follows the story of Sü, a Native American trans woman portrayed by Nyla Rose, who relocates to Vancouver after coming out and loses her job in tech. Facing unemployment and housing challenges, she moves in with her ex, Chris, an eco-terrorist with a flair for dark humor. The plot unfolds through the ensemble cast’s quirky dynamics, featuring characters like Zoey, Sandra the detective, and Antonia, as they navigate identity, friendship, and systemic adversity through a comedic lens.
Releasing the series under a Creative Commons license significantly expands access by removing traditional barriers to distribution. It allows audiences around the world to engage with the series freely, supporting its preservation as an important piece of LGBTQ+ media history.
In public reflections, Nyla Rose emphasized the continued relevance of the show’s themes—housing instability, trans discrimination, and the power of community—which remain critical issues in 2025. She praised the show’s writing team for capturing these enduring struggles with a balance of humor and insight.
The production was notable not just for its groundbreaking cast, but also for its collaborative and community-oriented ethos. Much of the show was developed and refined through the lived experiences of its creators and actors. Rose recalled how improvisational scenes emerged organically during filming and were welcomed by the directing team. This creative freedom led to some of the show’s most memorable moments, blending surreal humor with sincere storytelling.
Unlike many portrayals of transgender lives that focus heavily on trauma, The Switch centers on joy, absurdity, and resilience. The show provides a rare example of trans-led, trans-written media that seeks to entertain while reflecting authentic experiences. It offers viewers a glimpse into the daily lives of trans people that goes beyond struggle, highlighting celebration and community-building.
Episodes of the series will be released weekly across free streaming platforms, reviving public engagement and offering younger audiences a chance to discover the show for the first time. This serialized release format encourages conversation and renewed appreciation for its themes and execution.
Rose also expressed excitement about fan engagement and hinted at the potential for spin-off concepts, including one inspired by the fictional sport “Doomball,” featured in the show. While no formal plans have been announced, the rerelease has stirred fresh interest in expanding the series’ universe.
For media scholars, activists, and general viewers alike, The Switch stands as a testament to what inclusive storytelling can achieve. It broke barriers when it debuted, and its return—freely accessible and openly licensed—cements its legacy as a cultural milestone in trans media.