Jahna Steele
Jahna Steele, originally a captivating Vegas showgirl, skyrocketed to fame after being crowned the coveted title of “Sexiest Showgirl on The Strip in 1991,” a testament to her mesmerizing presence and undeniable talent. This accolade served as a stepping stone, leading her to be named “Las Vegas Entertainer of the Year” and “Most Beautiful Showgirl” in 1993, solidifying her status as a true luminary.
Expanding her horizons, Jahna delved into the realms of film and television, captivating audiences as she hosted numerous transgender beauty pageants. Her vibrant spirit graced the silver screen in the poignant documentary “Trantasia,” further showcasing her magnetic charm. Unfortunately, the world mourned the tragic loss of Jahna Steele in 2008, as she succumbed to the struggles of substance abuse.
Thomas Beatie
You may remember Thomas Beatie from 2007 news headlines like "World's First Pregnant Man." This trans-activist has dedicated his life to advocating for transgender fertility and reproductive rights. He first came out as a man in the year 1997 and completed his transition in 2002. In 2007 he underwent artificial insemination and became pregnant.
Back then, the scandalous headlines distorted the story about a trans-man who chose to carry a child for his infertile wife. Sadly, however, in 2012, after parenting four kids together, Beatie and his wife split. Despite his personal issues, Beattie continues to be a powerful speaker for the trans-community.
Laura Jane Grace
Recognized as the leader and frontwoman of the band "Against Me! as well as other bands, Laura Jane Grace is a rock queen to be reckoned with. In 2016 she formed the punk band Laura Jane Grace & The Devouring Mothers.
Grace experienced gender dysphoria all her life and even published a memoir about it called "Tranny: Confessions of Punk Rock’s Most Infamous Anarchist Sellout." The book was co-written by writer Dan Ozzi. Grace has continued to stay pretty busy with her music career over the last few years, making appearances on songs by Venus de Mars, Amends, Bloods, and Tim Kasher.
Dorce Gamalama
Dorce Gamalama, who hails from Indonesia, was a transgender pop singer, actress, and TV personality. Gamalama lost her parents at a young age and was actually raised by her grandmother. Surely enough, it was her grandmother that introduced her to music and art.
Years later, the young performer joined the entertainment group the Bambang Brothers; it was there that she began to reveal her female identity. Aside from the spotlight, Gamalama has also dedicated a large part of her life to helping young orphans and caring for thousands of kids. Sadly, in 2022, at the age of 58, Gamalama passed away.
Buck Angel
Introducing Buck Angel, a true trailblazer and a name that resonates across the globe. As the visionary founder of the renowned Buck Angel company, renowned for its groundbreaking adult films and merchandise, he stands as an iconic figure in the transgender community. Widely regarded as one of the most prominent transgender men in the world, Angel has dedicated himself to championing LGBTQ+ rights.
He became an influential advocate for the community. His journey is nothing short of extraordinary, as he stands among the pioneers of transitioning through hormone therapy. Undertaking his transition at the age of 28, during a time when research in this field was scarce, Angel embarked on a profound and intricate path of self-discovery.