Cher's Daughter To Have Sex Change

• 12th Jun 2009

According to reports, Cher's daughter Chastity Bono is to become a man. The writer, musician and gay rights activist has apparently confirmed via her publicist Howard Bragman that she is to undergo gender reassignment surgery, after considering doing so for a while.

Bragman told TMZ.com: “Chaz, after many years of consideration, has made the courageous decision to honour his true identity. He is proud of his decision and grateful for the support and respect that has already been shown by his loved ones. It is Chaz's hope that his choice to transition will open the hearts and minds of the public regarding this issue, just as his 'coming out' did nearly 20 years ago. We ask that the media respect Chaz's privacy during this long process”.

Neil Giuliano of the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation says: “Chaz Bono's decision to live his life authentically represents an important step forward, both for him personally and for all who are committed to advancing discussions about fairness and equality for transgender people. Coming out as transgender is an extremely personal decision and one that is never made lightly. We look forward to hearing Chaz's story in his own words in the future”.