The Secret Gay Lives of Historical Figures: April Ashley

June 16, 2023 by stampfe

By: Bryan K. Ludeña Campoverde

A Life of Courage and Transformation

April Ashley, born George Jamieson in Liverpool in 1935, lived a life marked by challenges, rejection, and eventual triumph. At 25, she made history by undergoing one of the earliest gender reassignment surgeries, becoming one of the world’s first visible LGBT icons. Despite her hardships, April Ashley remained unapologetically true to herself, leaving a lasting impact on the fashion industry and society.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

April Ashley, one of six children born to a Royal Navy cook and his wife, endured a tumultuous childhood. Her delicate features and feminine physique made her a target for mockery from her siblings. As a young boy, she prayed every night to wake up as a girl, yearning to align her physical appearance with her true self.
At 16, Ashley joined the merchant navy but struggled with feelings of isolation and attempted suicide. Seeking acceptance and a sense of belonging, she ventured to Paris, where she found solace in the transgender cabaret scene at Le Carrousel nightclub. It was there that she began her journey toward gender reassignment.

Embracing Authenticity: From George to April

In 1960, April Ashley underwent gender reassignment surgery by pioneering surgeon Georges Burou in Casablanca. Though physically and financially taxing, the operation brought Ashley immense joy and a newfound sense of self. She emerged as April Ashley, a woman ready to face the world with courage and authenticity.

April Ashley’s innate beauty and style and her unique backstory caught the attention of renowned photographers like David Bailey, Brian Duffy, Terence Donovan, and Terry O’Neill. Despite the challenges she faced as a transgender model, she became a sought-after figure in the fashion industry, projecting elegance and naughtiness simultaneously.

Triumphs and Trials

Ashley’s life was not without its share of scandal and tumultuous relationships. Her marriage to Arthur Corbett, who struggled with cross-dressing, ended in divorce, followed by a short-lived relationship with the heir to the Duque del Infantado. These romantic entanglements made headlines, fueling both fascination and criticism from the media and the public.

In a landmark legal case, Ashley fought for recognition of her gender identity and the validity of her marriage. The three-year trial, which ultimately ruled that she was legally male, had significant implications for transgender rights and marriage laws. Despite the setback, Ashley maintained her resilience by opening a restaurant and living on her terms.

Legacy and Recognition

April Ashley’s contributions to transgender visibility and equality did not go unnoticed. In 2012, she was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for her services to transgender equality. She became an honorary citizen of Liverpool, and her life was celebrated through the exhibition “Portrait of a Lady” at the Museum of Liverpool in 2015.
Ashley’s impact reached beyond the fashion industry, as she inspired countless individuals to embrace their authentic selves and challenge societal norms. Her story resonated with audiences, leading to her involvement in the coaching of actor Eddie Redmayne for his role in the film “The Danish Girl” through her.

The Importance of Transgender Identities

By affirming transgender identities, we embrace diversity, question rigid gender concepts, and foster inclusivity. Recognizing the significance of transgender identities dismantles stereotypes, promotes empathy, and creates a more just and compassionate society for all.
Stand with the transgender community and participate in Insure Equality’s efforts to promote inclusivity and acceptance. By joining us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube, you can stay informed about the challenges faced by transgender individuals and learn how you can make a difference. Together, we can create a world where trans rights are protected, discrimination is eradicated, and everyone can live authentically.

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The Guardian. (2022). April Ashley obituary. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2022/jan/19/april-ashley-obituary [Accessed: 15.05.2023].
The University of London. April Ashley MBE dies. [online] Available at: https://www.london.ac.uk/news-opinion/april-ashley-mbe-dies [Accessed:16.05.2023].
Daily Mail. (n.d.). April Ashley: The Vogue model and trans trailblazer who men found irresistible. [online] Available at: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10351159/April-Ashley-Vogue-model-trans-trailblazer-men-irresistible.html [Accessed:16.05.2023]