Breaking Barriers for Queer Athletes: Trans Trailblazer Clayton Jay Reeves Invited Back to “American Ninja Warrior”

In a landmark moment for LGBTQ+ representation in sports, Clayton Jay Reeves became one of the first openly transgender men to compete on NBC’s “American Ninja Warrior” during its 17th season. Reeves’ inspiring performance in the qualifier round, which aired in episode five, drew widespread attention and acclaim, earning him an invitation to return for the upcoming season. The news comes as American Ninja Warrior continues to spotlight athletes who exemplify resilience, strength, and heart, while breaking new ground for diversity and inclusion .

Season 17 of “American Ninja Warrior” marked the first time two openly transgender men competed on the show: Clayton Jay Reeves, a rookie to the Ninja course, and Jenson Little, a returning competitor making his fourth appearance. Their participation reflects shifting attitudes in sports, as both athletes used their platform to challenge stereotypes and expand the definition of athletic excellence .

For Reeves, whose qualifier round aired in early July, the journey was deeply personal. “When people find out you’re trans, they usually see a label or assume weakness,” Reeves told The Queer Review. “For me, being transgender has been the most powerful part of my story. It’s what taught me to stand up for myself, to choose my own path, to become the man I am” .

Jenson Little, who debuted on the show's 10th season and returned for seasons 14 and 15, expressed how competing this year felt different: “In a year where trans visibility and our right to exist have been under attack, it felt more important than ever to step up, be seen, and remind people that trans folks belong everywhere, including in sports” .

Reeves’ presence on the show resonated far beyond the obstacle course. His story—shared across interviews, social media, and advocacy platforms—became an inspiration for young transgender people and allies nationwide. “Getting to show up as my full self on national TV… that’s not just for me. That’s for every kid who’s been made to feel like they’re too different to chase something great,” Reeves explained in a recent interview .

The impact was felt immediately on social media, where Reeves’ posts documenting his training and competition journey garnered thousands of likes and hundreds of comments, many from LGBTQ+ viewers expressing gratitude for his visibility and courage .

Reeves’ invitation to return next season is not just a personal victory—it’s a signal of broader change in sports media. As "American Ninja Warrior"’s producers reaffirmed their commitment to diversity, Reeves used his visibility to advocate for trans youth and athletes. In his interview with The Queer Review, he reflected on growing up in Iowa and the importance of support for trans youth: “Obviously, I totally stand for trans youth transitioning and feeling comfortable in their bodies, because at the end of the day it’s their lives and we all want to be able to live this one life that we have the way we want to” .

Reeves’ advocacy intersects with urgent national conversations about transgender rights, inclusion in sports, and the visibility of trans athletes. Organizations like GLAAD have highlighted Reeves and Little as role models, emphasizing how their participation disrupts harmful narratives and inspires new generations . The Advocate profiled Reeves as “using the platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility,” noting the significance of his achievement in reaching the semifinals as an out trans man .

For Reeves, the journey continues. “I’m excited to come back stronger, faster, and even more visible,” he shared on TikTok, inviting fans and supporters to follow his training and preparation for the next season .