"Degrassi" returns for a 10th season tonight with its first transgender character.

A new student named Adam hides the fact he was born a girl.

Producer, director and actor Stefan Brogren says it's new territory for the show and that the writers approach the topic carefully.

Adam is played by former "Life With Derek" actress Jordan Todosey.

The 15-year-old describes Adam as a down-to-earth kid and says she hopes viewers will connect with the character.

Other new students include the eccentric Eli who hides a dark past, Adam's homophobic step-brother Drew and the tough Bianca.

Season 10 of "Degrassi" kicks off Monday on MuchMusic with episodes running Monday through Thursday until it returns to a weekly schedule in September.