‘Pose’ has danced into the hearts of millions with its powerful portrayal of the trans community and the ballroom scene of the 80s and 90s.

The Emmy-winning series will wave goodbye at the end of its freshly launched third season.

And while fans have been distraught ever since the news was announced, lead MJ Rodriguez (who plans Blanca Evangelista) says the show will “go out with a bang.”

She made the declaration in Entertainment Weekly‘s new Pride Issue, which she covers alongside the likes of Lil Nas X and Lena Waithe. 

Head below for pics and quotes…

On Nabbing The Lead Role In ‘Pose’:

“There was a lot of weight [to it], a weight that I wanted. But I didn’t expect the other things that came with it.” Like the tedious hours of work, “making sure that you’re always present,” and speaking up for the community that the show is representing. But she embraced it. “I got to really showcase the work that I’ve always wanted to showcase as an actress,” she says, “and not just shine light on the industry, but shine light on women who don’t get noticed within the industry.”

On Pose’s Many Emmy Nominations Only Yielding A Win…For A Man:

“I’m huge on representation and deserved notoriety, and this season I’m fighting for that. I think it’s time.

On Trans Rights Amongst Hollywood Voting Panels:

“This can be on the record because I want them to know this. I know exactly what they’re thinking right now. I know they don’t see me as a woman. I know that. They don’t have to tell me. They’ve made it very apparent, but my job is to show them how much of a woman I am through the work that I’m doing.”

On Pose’s Final Season:

“I hope every season that we’ve done has changed the game, but now we’ve got to go out with a bang!”

On Her Next Career Move:

“I want to definitely venture into some very dramatic, dark elements of a character. Blanca was dramatic but she was still light. She was love, hope, and joy. But now I think it’s time to do something that is completely the opposite, so others can really see the dynamic that Michaela has.”

Stunning shoot!

Your thoughts?

[Photo Credit: EW / Lia Clay Miller]