Jacqueline Kent "Bonjour, Mademoiselle! April Ashley and the Pursuit of a Lovely Life"

Award-winning biographer Jacqueline Kent returns to the podcast to discuss her latest work, coauthored with historian Tom Roberts, about the iconic transgender model and activist April Ashley.

A Life Reimagined – Born George Jamieson in Liverpool, April Ashley transitioned in 1960 and became one of the first Britons to undergo gender-affirming surgery. Jacqueline explores April’s remarkable transformation with insight and compassion.

The biography traces April’s journey from a tough childhood to the glamour of 1960s high society, detailing both her rise as a fashion icon and the tabloid fallout that followed her outing.

Jacqueline shares what led her to co-write the biography with Tom Roberts and how they combined historical research with intimate narrative storytelling.

Learn why the biography opens with April’s reflective 80th birthday visit to Liverpool and how the authors balanced chronology with thematic exploration.

Jacqueline discusses April’s fierce advocacy for transgender rights and her lasting influence, culminating in honours like her 2012 MBE and the passing of the UK Equality Act in 2010.

Jacqueline reflects on the ethical responsibilities of biographers writing about living memory.

Jacqueline offers thoughtful insights into how biographers navigate memory, voice and truth while honouring their subject’s humanity and legacy.