The Canadian actor, known for his role on ‘Henry Danger’, thanks fans for their support and acceptance after opening up about his transgender journey in Time.

AceShowbiz -Viewers may know Michael D. Cohen as Schwoz Schwartz on “Henry Danger” and its spin-off “The Adventures of Kid Danger“, but only a few knew about his past as a female. The 43-year-old opened up to Time that he transitioned into male nearly two decades ago.

“I was misgendered at birth,” he said in a piece published on Thursday, May 23. “I identify as male, and I am proud that I have had a transgender experience – a transgender journey.” He added of his transition, “It is not random, it is not arbitrary, it is not chosen. It’s like trying to negotiate with gravity.”

Michael transitioned through medical procedures and social adjustments when he was in his 20s. Due to his long journey to obtain his gender identity, Michael refuses to be labeled as transgender. According to the publication, the Canadian actor “does not use the word transgender to describe himself, but he does view himself as part of a community that typically embraces that label, and he didn’t feel he could be an outspoken advocate until he made his history known.”

“I have worked so hard to get to the truth and I’ve taken on labels in the past that didn’t feel true for the sake of convenience at that moment,” he explained.

On why he decided to come out with his story after almost 20 years, Michael said he wanted to help kids who are still struggling with identity issues to be more accepting of themselves. “What it does is send a message to kids that whoever they are, however they identify, that’s celebrated and valued and OK,” he said. “If I tell my truth, that gives other people permission to tell theirs too.”

He added, “This crazy backlash and oppression of rights is happening right in front of me. I can’t stay silent. The level of – let’s be polite – misunderstanding around trans issues is so profound and so destructive. When you disempower one population, you disempower everybody.”

Michael shared the interview on his Instagram page and wrote along with it, ” I’m so grateful to be able to share my story. I hope that by sharing this part of my life’s journey it will help people of trans experience of ALL ages feel seen and less alone. I’m right here with you.” He also thanked “Henry Danger” and his Nickelodeon family for their support.

Taking to his Instagram Stories after the story was published, Michael thanked his fans for their love. “Thank you all so much for the outpouring of support,” he wrote.

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