Former RuPaul’s Drag Race finalist and American Idol contestant, Adore Delano, has publicly come out as transgender in an emotional and candid video shared on Instagram. The 33-year-old performer opened up about her gender journey, revealing that she has been transitioning privately for the last few months, and the experience has brought her unprecedented happiness in her adult life.
A Silent Struggle and a Joyous Revelation
Adore’s video chronicles her path from dysphoria to euphoria, recounting that she first came out as transgender to her mother while in secondary school. However, when she appeared on the seventh season of American Idol 15 years ago, she felt compelled to suppress her true identity. “I threw it away, I burned it,” Adore expressed, as she tried to conform to societal norms to advance her career. Her journey continued on Drag Race, where she was a runner-up in the sixth season and later starred in All Stars 2, though she eventually left the show in its second episode.
Embracing Liberation and Authenticity
Adore’s decision to publicly come out as transgender now marks a powerful turning point in her life. She joyfully expressed, “I’m living in my world now, and it feels so empowering, and it feels so good. It feels so liberating.” The performer is unapologetically embracing her true self, shedding the discomfort she once endured to pursue her dreams. She confidently affirmed her pronouns as she/her, while also playfully acknowledging the appeal of they/them.
Plans for the Future
Looking ahead, Adore has announced her intention to undergo surgery in November and will take time off in early 2024 for further procedures. Her openness about her gender journey has been met with overwhelming support from fans and the LGBTQ community, and her candid video serves as a source of inspiration for those on similar paths.
In a world where visibility and acceptance are paramount, Adore Delano’s story serves as a beacon of hope for those navigating their own gender journeys. By sharing her truth, Adore stands as a powerful advocate for transgender individuals worldwide, encouraging everyone to embrace their authentic selves and find happiness in their own unique identities.