At 25, April Ashley was a sensation, gracing the pages of Vogue, appearing in Blockbuster hits, and partying with celebrities and socialites. Those who witnessed her rise to fame called it “fairytale-like.” She rubbed elbows and flirted with Elvis Presley. April Ashley is also a transsexual, and she is one of the first people ever to transition from male to female through reassignment surgery.
Sadly, the glamour of her life and career was short-lived, as a friend exposed her gender assignment to Sunday People. She was fired from her modeling jobs, and she was never offered another shoot or role again.
This year, the Museum of Liverpool is finally giving the now-78-year-old starlet the exposure of which she was robbed decades ago. In an exhibit titled April Ashley: Portrait of a Lady, the museum delves into the life and transition process of the star. Ashley candidly discusses the physical and emotional abuse she endured in her early years, and she explains how she courageously fought for her right to her transitional process. She and the museum hope to create a safe and meaningful place for people to reflect on the way we view women and gender. Check out some images from the show below.
Images via Liverpool Museums
Thanks to Yahoo Shine
