9 Things You Need To Know About Laverne Cox

Laverne Cox has become a household name since she landed her role in critically acclaimed Netflix series “Orange Is the New Black”. She’s talented, she’s driven, she’s a passionate LGBT advocate and she’s blazing a trail for many transgender people with her career and success. She’s become “the first” in many ways and we look forward to seeing what other incredible things she will achieve in the future. Here are 9 facts you need to know about Laverne Cox.

1. Laverne Cox Before Fame

Laverne Cox was born and grew up in Mobile Alabama. Since a very young age, she knew she was meant to be a woman. She thought that when she grows up and goes through puberty she will become a woman. It was apparent to teachers in her school too, but they weren’t exactly supportive.

2. Laverne Cox’s School Years

School was a difficult time for Laverne. She was in 3d grade when her teacher called her mother and told her “Your son is going to end up in New Orleans wearing a dress if you don’t get him into therapy right away.” Her classmates weren’t much more understanding either, in fact, Laverne was only 11 when she attempted to take her own life by overdosing on pills because of the lack of understanding and bullying.

3. Laverne Cox’s Birth Name

Laverne is an openly transgender woman but she knows that it’s not all transgender people are as open about it because it’s not safe. The question of birth names is very close to her heart. It’s believed that it was her interview on deadnaming and what kind of negative and even dangerous impact that can have on transgender people that made IMDb change their policy and allow users to delete their birth names and instead only use their preferred name.