Tommy Dorfman Biography: Net Worth, Height, Ethnicity, Age, Parents, Siblings, Film

Tommy Dorfman is an American actress, writer, and advocate best known for her role as Ryan Shaver in Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why, a series that brought her widespread recognition for portraying a complex character navigating themes of bullying and identity.

Identifying as a transgender woman since publicly coming out in 2021, she has become a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ rights, using her platform to advocate for trans visibility and mental health awareness.

Profile

• Full Name: Tommy Dorfman
• Stage Name: Tommy Dorfman
• Born: 13, May 1992
• Age: 33 years old
• Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Actress, Writer, Producer, and LGBTQ+ Advocate
• Height: 1.8m
• Parents: Unknown
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Peter Zurkuhlen (m. 2016–2021) and Elise Williams (m. 2023–2024)  
• Children: None
• Relationship: Single
• Net Worth: $3 million

Early Life and Education

Tommy Dorfman was born on May 13, 1992, in Atlanta, Georgia, to parents whose names are not publicly disclosed. Details about her siblings, if any, remain private, reflecting her preference to shield her family from public scrutiny. She attended The Paideia School in Atlanta, where she developed an interest in theatre and dance, performing in productions like Twelfth Night.

Dorfman graduated from Fordham University in 2015 with a Bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts, majoring in Acting and minoring in Dance and trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Her ethnicity is Ashkenazi Jewish, and her religion is not explicitly stated, though she has referenced her Jewish heritage in interviews.

Career

Tommy Dorfman began her acting career shortly after graduating from Fordham University, landing her breakout role as Ryan Shaver in 13 Reasons Why (2017–2020), where her portrayal of a confident yet flawed high school student earned critical praise. Before fame, she held various jobs, including working as a barista and in retail, while auditioning in New York City.

Her early work included stage performances and a role in the short film Foreign Bodies (2016). In 2018, she expanded her television presence with a guest role as Bobby in HBO’s Sharp Objects and appeared in American Princess (2019) and Insatiable (2019), showcasing her range across drama and comedy.

Her career grew with roles in Love, Victor (2020) as Justin, Love in the Time of Corona (2020), and The Serpent Queen (2022) as Mary, Queen of Scots’ confidante. In 2023, Dorfman made her feature film debut in “I Wish You All the Best,” a coming-of-age story about a non-binary teenager, which premiered at SXSW and earned her acclaim for her authentic performance.

She also ventured into writing, contributing to Transparent and developing a short film, Consent, based on her experiences as a trans woman. Her advocacy work, including partnerships with GLAAD and her role as a global ambassador for Viktor & Rolf’s Flowerbomb fragrance, has amplified her influence.

Tommy Dorfman remains a significant figure in entertainment and activism, with recent projects including a guest role in The White Lotus Season 4 (set for 2025) and ongoing writing endeavours. Her directorial debut, an adaptation of Gender Euphoria, and her role in the Off-Broadway play The White Dress highlight her multifaceted talents.

Dorfman’s advocacy for trans rights, mental health, and body positivity, often shared through personal essays and social media, resonates with audiences. At the same time, her performances continue to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity in the entertainment industry.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @tommy.dorfman
• Facebook Handle: Tommy Dorfman
• Twitter Handle: @tommydorfman

Personal Life

Tommy Dorfman was previously married to Peter Zurkuhlen from 2016 until their divorce filing in early 2022. After coming out as a trans woman, Dorfman began dating Elise Williams, whom she met on the dating app Hinge in 2021. They got engaged just two months into their relationship and eloped in a private ceremony in late 2023.

However, by late 2024, Dorfman hinted at a split from Elise, and in May 2025, she officially filed for divorce. Tommy Dorfman has no publicly known children. She has been open about her ADHD, sobriety, and struggles with body dysmorphia, using her platform to advocate for mental health and trans visibility.

Filmography

•    Foreign Bodies (2016, short film)
•    13 Reasons Why (2017–2020)
•    Sharp Objects (2018)
•    American Princess (2019)
•   Insatiable (2019)
•    Love, Victor (2020)
•    Love in the Time of Corona (2020)
•    The Serpent Queen (2022)
•    I Wish You All the Best (2023)

Net Worth

Tommy Dorfman’s estimated net worth is USD 3 million. Her wealth stems from her acting roles in high-profile projects, such as 13 Reasons Why, Sharp Objects and I Wish You All the Best, as well as her work in writing and producing.

Additional income comes from modelling modelling, brand partnerships with Viktor & Rolf and Calvin Klein, as well as her advocacy engagements, which have bolstered her presence in both the the entertainment and fashion industries.