Australian panel show welcomes country’s first trans TV host
Andrew Guy shared his story with the nation after appearing on popular panel talk show The Project.
Australia’s first transgender television host shared his story on the country’s TV screens, talking candidly about his childhood experiences and his transition.
Mr Guy appeared on Channel Ten’s The Project on Monday night as a temporary panel member – after winning a nationwide competition to take part.
After being formally introduced, viewers were shown a clip from the 33-year-old’s documentary titled, ‘It’s Not About The Sex.’
The clip included photos from his childhood and before his transition, which he discussed openly with his co-panellists.
“As a woman with blond hair I was just doing my darnedest to be attractive, be the best woman I could,” Mr Guy narrated.
“People who change their gender are just an everyday person, that eats and sleep and loves and get hurt and just lives as best they can alongside everyone else.”
Asked why he had chosen to publicly document his transition, Mr Guy responded, “education.”
He revealed that he lived through his teenage years “badly and depressed,” struggling to express his true identity and recommended that others in similar circumstances should avoid doing the same.
“I remember when I was little asking my mum, ‘if you want to become a boy is there something you can do about that?’” he told the program.
“I think that parents out there today that are supporting transgender kids are spot on.”
Twitter lit up in support of Mr Guy following the show, with some even suggesting he should permanently replace regular host Steve Price.
“Such a natural, Yes, replace Steve with Andrew,” one delighted viewer wrote.
“Much prefer to see @AndygProjects on the project than Steve Price. He actually gives other panellists a chance to speak! And looks better!” another agreed.
Earlier today, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott pledged to pass legislation to legalise same-sex marriage, if the public votes in favour in a plebiscite.
Abbott, a staunch opponent of same-sex marriage, has refused to give coalition MPs a free vote on the issue.
Watch a clip of Mr Guy’s appearance on The Project below.
