The Incredible Evolution Of The Actor Who Played Stuart Wooten: From Disney Channel To Rising Star

The question of "Who played Stuart Wooten?" leads to one of the most compelling and transformative stories in modern Hollywood, revealing an actor whose career has evolved dramatically since her Disney Channel days. Stuart Wooten, the ultra-nerdy, quick-witted, and lovestruck boy with a persistent crush on Zuri Ross in the hit series *Jessie* (2013-2015), was portrayed by Josie Totah. Today, as of December 2025, Josie Totah has cemented her status as a breakout star, transitioning from a beloved child actor to an acclaimed young actress, producer, and a powerful voice for the transgender community, with recent starring roles in major streaming hits like *The Buccaneers* and the *Saved by the Bell* reboot. The journey of Josie Totah is a testament to authenticity and talent, moving past the constraints of her early roles to embrace her true self and secure prominent, groundbreaking parts in the industry. Her early work as the memorable Stuart Wooten is now viewed as a fascinating early chapter in a career that is rapidly ascending, earning her a Rising Star Award at the 2024 SCAD TVfest, a clear signal of her current trajectory and influence.

Josie Totah: A Full Biography and Filmography

The actor who brought the quirky Stuart Wooten to life is Josie Totah, a multi-talented individual whose career spans comedy, drama, and advocacy. Born in Sacramento, California, Totah's family heritage is notable, with her father hailing from Ramallah, giving her Palestinian descent. Her public journey of self-discovery and transition has become as significant as her on-screen work, making her a crucial figure in contemporary media representation.

Key Biographical Details

• Full Name: Josie Jay Totah
• Born: August 5, 2001
• Place of Birth: Sacramento, California, USA
• Notable Early Role: Stuart Wooten in *Jessie* (2013–2015)
• Transition: Came out publicly as a transgender woman in an essay for *Time* magazine in August 2018.
• Recent Recognition: Recipient of the Rising Star Award at the 2024 SCAD TVfest.

Selected Filmography (Movies and Television)

Josie Totah's filmography highlights a versatile career, from comedic child roles to complex dramatic parts:

• 2012: *Kroll Show* (TV Series)
• 2013–2015: *Jessie* (TV Series) as Stuart Wooten
• 2013–2014: *Back in the Game* (TV Series) as Michael Lovette
• 2014: *Glee* (TV Series) as Myron Muskovitz
• 2016: *Other People* (Film) as Justin
• 2017: *Spider-Man: Homecoming* (Film) as Seymour O'Reilly
• 2018: *Champions* (TV Series) as Michael Patel
• 2019: *No Good Nick* (TV Series) as Lisa Haddad
• 2020–2021: *Saved by the Bell* (TV Series) as Lexi Haddad (Main Role)
• 2023: *The Buccaneers* (TV Series) as Mabel Elmsworth (Main Role)
• Upcoming: *Faces of Death* (Film Remake)

The Stuart Wooten Era: A Pivotal Early Role

The character of Stuart Wooten was a fan-favorite recurring role on the Disney Channel sitcom *Jessie*, which starred Debby Ryan and ran from 2011 to 2015. Stuart was introduced in the second season and quickly became a memorable part of the show's ensemble. His defining characteristic was his obsessive, yet often sweet, crush on Zuri Ross (played by Skai Jackson), which led to many of the show's most comedic moments. Stuart's persona was built around being an over-the-top, highly intelligent, and sometimes socially awkward child who was often seen in a signature bowtie and glasses. His appearances, totaling seven episodes, provided a perfect comedic foil to the Ross kids and their nanny, Jessie Prescott. The sheer popularity of the character is why the question "stuart wooten played by" remains a highly searched query years after the show concluded. The role, which was played by Totah before her public transition, represents a foundational piece of her early career, showcasing her natural comedic timing and ability to steal scenes even in a supporting capacity. It was a crucial stepping stone that demonstrated her potential to casting directors across the industry.

From Disney Channel Boy to Transgender Trailblazer

The most significant and inspiring chapter of the actor's life began in 2018 when Josie Totah publicly came out as a transgender woman in a deeply personal and powerful essay published in *Time* magazine. This announcement marked a turning point, not just for her personal life, but for her professional career and the broader conversation around LGBTQ+ representation in Hollywood.

The Power of Authenticity

Josie Totah's decision to live as her authentic self was a courageous act that immediately redefined her public image and career trajectory. She has spoken openly about the difficulty of playing male roles, including Stuart Wooten and Michael Lovette in *Back in the Game*, while secretly knowing her true gender identity. This honesty has resonated with millions and has made her an icon for young trans people navigating similar struggles. Her journey from the boy who played Stuart Wooten to the woman who is now a rising star is a powerful narrative of self-acceptance and freedom.

A New Era of Roles: Lexi Haddad and Mabel Elmsworth

Since her transition, Totah has been cast in roles that reflect her true identity and extraordinary talent, solidifying her status as a serious dramatic and comedic actress. Her work has moved far beyond the Disney Channel, focusing on complex, contemporary characters.

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• *Saved by the Bell* Reboot (2020-2021): Totah starred as Lexi Haddad, a sharp-tongued, popular, and unapologetically confident transgender cheerleader. This role was monumental, as it was a main character in a major network reboot, played by an openly trans actress. It allowed her to bring a layer of personal experience and authenticity to the character, moving past the constraints of her earlier work.
• *The Buccaneers* (2023): Her latest major role is as Mabel Elmsworth in the Apple TV+ period drama, a high-profile series based on the unfinished novel by Edith Wharton. In *The Buccaneers*, Mabel is a wealthy, new-money American socialite who travels to London and falls in love with a British noblewoman. This role further showcases Totah's range, proving she can shine in historical dramas as well as modern comedies. Her performance in this series earned her the 2024 SCAD TVfest Rising Star Award, highlighting her current influence in the industry.

The Legacy of Stuart Wooten and Josie Totah's Future

The legacy of the character Stuart Wooten is now inextricably linked to the groundbreaking career of Josie Totah. While *Jessie* remains a nostalgic favorite for many, Totah's current projects—including her upcoming role in the horror film remake *Faces of Death*—demonstrate a commitment to diverse and challenging work. The actor who played the quirky, bespectacled boy is now a celebrated actress, writer, and producer who is actively shaping the future of inclusive storytelling. Her success proves that authenticity is not just a personal victory, but a professional asset, allowing her to connect with audiences on a deeper, more meaningful level. For fans searching for the answer to "stuart wooten played by," the discovery of Josie Totah's powerful and ongoing journey is far more compelling than the simple answer to a trivia question. She is a true Hollywood trailblazer, using her platform to ensure that the next generation of actors and viewers see themselves reflected truthfully on screen.