A friction clutch assembly for an automatic transmission is provided. The friction clutch assembly is configured to move between an applied position and a released or disengaged position. A plurality of clutch plates may include friction plates and interleaved reaction plates, plus an apply plate and a backing plate. A separator feature is disposed adjacent to at least one of the reaction plates, the friction plates, the apply plate, and the backing plate. At least one of the reaction plates, the friction plates, the apply plate, and the backing plate defines a passage configured to allow fluid to flow through the friction clutch assembly and around the separator feature.