Yahoo News Nickelodeon star Michael D Cohen reveals he transitioned 20 years ago and opens up about "transgender journey"
Nickelodeon star Michael D Cohen has revealed that he transitioned two decades ago.
The Henry Danger star opened up about his "transgender journey" in a new interview, explaining that he doesn't like to be referred to by the term 'transgender'.
"I was misgendered at birth," Cohen told Time, revealing that he lived outwardly as female until he transitioned in 2000. "I identify as male, and I am proud that I have had a transgender experience – a transgender journey."
Speaking of his gender identity, the actor explained: "It is not random, it is not arbitrary, it is not chosen. It's like trying to negotiate with gravity.
"In my experience, I was born male. What my body said about it was irrelevant. No matter how hard I tried, it was not up for negotiation. Believe me, it would have been so convenient if I was actually a woman."
Cohen explained that he wanted to open up about his transition now due to the roll-back of transgender rights in the US.
"This crazy backlash and oppression of rights is happening right in front of me. I can't stay silent," he said.
"The level of – let's be polite – misunderstanding around trans issues is so profound and so destructive. When you disempower one population, you disempower everybody."
The star also revealed why he doesn't feel comfortable with the term 'transgender', adding: "I have worked so hard to get to the truth and I've taken on labels in the past that didn't feel true for the sake of convenience at that moment."
Want up-to-the-minute entertainment news and features? Just hit 'Like' on our Digital Spy Facebook page and 'Follow' on our @digitalspy Instagram and Twitter account.
('You Might Also Like',)
