Elliot Page is “grateful” to be alive after such a “difficult” transition.
The actor, who came out as transgender in 2020, recently met with People to discuss his new memoir, “Pageboy,” which will cover everything from mental health to relationships to sex.
“Obviously there were some very difficult times,” said the “Juno” star. “I feel like I’ve barely succeeded in so many ways. But today I am just me and grateful to be here, alive and taking one step at a time.
Despite the stress of having to make the switch in the public eye, Page acknowledged that much of the trans community faces even more challenges.
“The experience I have as a trans and this life and privilege I have do not represent the reality of most trans lives,” the 36-year-old said.
While her story is unique, Page knows that doesn’t mean it’s not worth sharing.
“I think it’s very important, I think we need to feel represented and see ourselves, you know, that wasn’t something I liked as a kid,” she said about the importance of LGBTQ+ visibility.
“The reality is that trans people are disproportionately unemployed, disproportionately homeless,” he explained. “Trans women of color are being killed. People are losing or not accessing healthcare.”
Page has discussed writing a book for years, but says he knows now is the right time due to the current political environment.
“Of course, this time has felt like the right time, when there is not only hate but also LGTBQ+ lives, misinformation about our healthcare, or just blatant lies,” the Oscar-nominated actor continued. “Trans and queer stories are often kept separate, or worse, universalized.”
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The “Umbrella Academy” actor recently talked about his past experiences with gender dysphoria, admitting that he feels better in his body than ever before.
“Dysphoria was very common, especially in the summer,” she wrote in a topless selfie on Instagram earlier this month. “No layers, just a tee – or layers and oh so sweaty – constantly looking down, I readjust my oversized T.
“It feels so good to be soaked in the sun right now that I never thought I could experience it, the joy I feel in my body. I am so grateful for the opportunities that gender-affirming care has given me and I look forward to sharing more of my journey soon. #transjoy.”
The actor announced that in March 2021 – just three months after coming out as a trans man – he had surgery from the top to remove his breast tissue.
“It completely changed my life,” he said in an interview with Time magazine.
While she explained that the surgery didn’t define being trans, it did allow her to truly recognize herself in the mirror and even be more certain of what she saw.
“Pageboy” will hit theaters on June 6th.