10 Famous People with Down Syndrome: Raising Acceptance in the Media

Ever dreamt of walking a red carpet, competing on a global stage, or starring in your favorite movie? These ten incredible individuals with Down syndrome are not just dreaming it. They are living it! These famous people with Down syndrome represent a powerful wave of actors, elite athletes, international models, and influential advocates who are fundamentally changing public perception about what Down syndrome means.

Every time they step into the spotlight, these trailblazers dismantle outdated stereotypes and rewrite the narrative on ability. From Zack Gottsagen’s breakthrough role in The Peanut Butter Falcon and his historic appearance at the Academy Awards, to Chris Nikic’s monumental achievement as the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman Triathlon, their accomplishments are undeniable. Other figures, like model Madeline Stuart and actress Jamie Brewer, have dominated fashion runways and hit television shows, proving that the worlds of entertainment and high fashion are ready for true inclusion. 

These famous individuals are showing the world not only what is possible, but also what has been missing. They’re leading a movement for greater opportunities and recognition for all people with Down syndrome. So let’s celebrate these ten champions who are showing the world what’s truly possible:

1. Chris Nikic: Ironman Athlete 

What does it take to finish one of the toughest races on Earth? Grit, determination, and a mindset like Chris Nikic’s. 

In 2020, Chris Nikic made history as the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman triathlon. His motto, “1% Better Every Day,” has become a global movement, inspiring people of all abilities to push beyond limits. 

Follow Chris: Instagram 

2. Sujeet Desai: Multi-Instrumentalist Musician 

Musical talent knows no bounds, and Sujeet Desai is proving that. 

Sujeet plays seven instruments and has performed around the world, including at Carnegie Hall and the United Nations. 

Learn more: sujeet.com 

3. Chelsea Werner: Champion Gymnast & Model 

Athlete. Model. Trailblazer. 

Chelsea Werner is a four-time Special Olympics U.S. National Champion in gymnastics and a successful model. She’s been featured in Vogue and walked the runway at New York Fashion Week, redefining what beauty, strength, and athleticism look like. 

Follow Chelsea: Instagram 

4. Kayla Kosmalski: Pageant Pioneer 

Think beauty pageants aren’t exactly the most inclusive spaces? Kayla Kosmalski is flipping the script. Kayla made history as the first person with Down syndrome to win Miss Delaware Teen USA and compete in the national Miss Teen USA pageant. 

Her confidence and grace on stage have inspired a new wave of inclusivity in the pageant world. 

Follow Kayla: Instagram 

5. Zack Gottsagen: Actor & Oscar Presenter 

For too long, actors with Down syndrome have been cast as side characters… if they’ve even been cast at all. But Zack Gottasgen is taking center stage. 

Zack starred in the critically acclaimed film The Peanut Butter Falcon alongside Shia LaBeouf and Dakota Johnson. In 2020, he also became the first person with Down syndrome to present at the Oscars. 

Follow Zack: Instagram 

6. Mar Galceran: Elected Official  

Politics isn’t always known for being inclusive, but Mar Galceran is changing that. 

Mar became the first person with Down syndrome elected to a regional parliament in Spain in 2023. Her election is a powerful step toward inclusion in politics and public service. 

7. Sofia Sanchez: Actress & Model 

You don’t have to be an adult to make a big impact.  

Sofia Sanchez is a young actress and model who’s appeared in national ad campaigns and played a role in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes. She’s also a proud member of GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento! 

Follow Sofia: Instagram 

8. Madison Tevlin: Actress & Influencer 

Madison Tevlin is proving that talent and confidence belong center stage. 

She’s a Canadian actress and content creator who has taken the entertainment world by storm. She starred in the series Who Do You Think I Am? and uses her platform to advocate for disability representation in media. 

Follow Madison: Instagram 

9. Grace Strobel: Model & Speaker 

Think fashion is only about looks? Grace Strobel is challenging that.  

Grace is a model, public speaker, and disability advocate who’s been featured in campaigns for major brands and magazines. Her “#TheGraceEffect” initiative promotes kindness, courage, and breaking down barriers. 

Follow Grace: Instagram 

10. GiGi Gianni: Podcast Host & Advocate 

It’s one thing to inspire an international nonprofit. It’s another to cohost a podcast on top of it! 

GiGi Gianni is the inspiration behind GiGi’s Playhouse and a true trailblazer. She’s the first individual with Down syndrome to co-host a video podcast, A Little Something Extra, where she interviews celebrities, advocates, and other change-makers. Her voice is helping shift perceptions and celebrate what makes every person unique. 

Follow GiGi: Instagram 

More Famous People with Down Syndrome 

There are many more famous individuals with Down syndrome who are making their mark on the world. A few more names worth knowing: 

• Lauren Potter, actress best known for her role on Glee 
• Megan Bomgaars, reality star and author 
• John Cronin, co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks 
• Karen Gaffney, swimmer and activist 
• Oliver Hellowell, acclaimed wildlife photographer 
• Kyle Landi, fitness model and bodybuilder 

Why Down Syndrome Representation Matters 

Representation is vital for changing perceptions and creating a more inclusive world. It helps us find common ground with people who are different from us, which is an essential step for building connection and community. 

When we see famous people with Down syndrome thriving in the media, entertainment, sports, and positions of leadership, it opens doors… for future generations, for families, and for society.  

These stories aren’t just inspiring; they’re essential in creating a more inclusive world. 

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we’ll continue to shout their successes from the rooftops, because EVERYONE deserves to be seen, celebrated, and supported. Learn how you can help and get involved today at a GiGi’s Playhouse near you.