Fame, identity, and acceptance—Chaz Bono’s life has been anything but ordinary. As the child of superstar Cher, he grew up under constant scrutiny, yet his most challenging battle was with himself. For decades, he felt trapped in a body that didn’t reflect who he truly was.
Chaz first came out as a lesbian in his teens, a decision that initially rattled Cher despite her LGBTQ+ advocacy. But their bond only grew stronger as she witnessed his courage. Years later, Chaz embarked on an even more transformative journey: transitioning at 39. The emotional and physical changes were captured in the documentary Becoming Chaz, offering an intimate look at his struggles and triumphs.
Post-transition, Chaz thrived. He shed nearly 90 pounds, starred in TV shows like American Horror Story, and found love with social worker Shara Mathes. Through it all, he’s remained a beacon of hope for the transgender community, proving that authenticity is worth fighting for—no matter how late the start.
