The entertainment world mourns the loss of Jeffrey Carlson, a gifted actor known for his groundbreaking role as the first transgender character on daytime television. Carlson, 48, passed away on July 6th. His representatives confirmed the news, requesting privacy for the grieving family.

Carlson's portrayal of Zoe, a British rock star who transitioned on the soap opera "All My Children" in 2006, marked a pivotal moment in television history. This role resonated deeply with audiences and paved the way for greater transgender representation on screen.

Carlson's sister, Elizabeth Carlson Gingras, shared a heartfelt tribute, expressing the profound impact he had on countless lives. She highlighted his talent, brilliance, and the deep bond they shared as siblings.

While details surrounding his passing are still emerging, the Chicago Police Department reported finding Carlson unresponsive on July 6th, having last been in contact on July 3rd. Preliminary reports suggest a combination of prescribed medication and alcohol may have been involved. The Cook County Medical Examiner's Office is still determining the official cause and manner of death.

Beyond his iconic role on "All My Children," Carlson's career spanned film, television, and stage. He appeared in movies like "Hitch" and television shows like "Law & Order: SVU" and "The Killing Floor." His Broadway credits include notable performances in productions such as Edward Albee's "The Goat or Who is Sylvia," "Tartuffe," and "The Miracle Worker."

At the time of his groundbreaking portrayal of Zoe, Carlson acknowledged the weight of representing the transgender community, expressing a desire to do justice to the character and story. He hoped the audience would embrace Zoe not for shock value, but as another individual whose life was unfolding in the fictional town of Pine Valley.

Tributes from fellow actors and critics have poured in on social media, celebrating Carlson's talent, kindness, and the significant impact he had on the entertainment industry. His legacy as a trailblazing actor and a compassionate individual will continue to inspire.