June 12th, 2009
TMZ has learned that Chastity Bono, the daughter of legendary entertainers Sonny and Cher, will now be known as Chaz. She is in the early stages of her gender, transtioning from female to male. She began the process earlier this year, shortly after her 40th birthday. “Yes, it’s true — Chaz, after many years of consideration, has made the courageous decision to honor his true identity,” confirmed Bono’s publicist, Howard Bragman. “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.