From Past to Present: Transgender Icons That Have Shaped History

1. Candy Darling

Candy Darling was like a Golden Cinema starlet. Born James Lawrence Slattery on November 24, 1944. Raised in Long Island, New York, Candy got her start in cinema, starring in a string of films such as “Women Revolt,” “Silent Night,” “Bloody Night,” and “Flesh.” Of course, back then, revealing one’s transgender identity was almost unheard of, and the world was far less forgiving.

The actress went on to forge a successful showbiz career. In fact, Candy Darling was one of the most prominent pop artists and filmmakers of that time. Andy Warhol took a liking to her and, as she was one of his repertory performers, appeared in two of his films. Unfortunately, at the tender age of 29, Candy’s life ended.