PAGEBOY

An Oscar-nominated actor and activist shares his story.

Page (b. 1987) made headlines when he came out as queer in 2014 and again when he let the world know that he was a trans man in 2020. The latter revelation was Page reintroducing himself on his own terms. The former was more complicated. In 2008, just after 20-year-old Page had shot to fame as the title character in the indie hit Juno, journalist Michael Musto used his column in the Village Voice to insinuate that Page was queer. At a time when he should have been enjoying his breakout film’s critical and commercial success, Page was enduring prurient public scrutiny and intense private pain. This dynamic was familiar to the young actor, as was the speculation about his sexuality. The author started acting professionally at the age of 9, but he had already learned to play a part. From his childhood as a “tomboy” to his days as a closeted celebrity, Page yearned to be someone other than the person others expected him to be. Anyone looking for a dishy tell-all should look elsewhere. While the author describes his romances with other boldface names and shares anecdotes about unnamed Hollywood figures that will undoubtedly lead to speculation, he is primarily interested in examining what it was like for him to grow up—and become famous—repressing his authentic self. He remembers the heartache of unrequited crushes and the impossibility of forming authentic relationships while living a lie. He recounts bullying and abuse, from his peers and from his family. He reveals how his body dysmorphia led to self-harm and disordered eating. He testifies to the lifesaving power of gender-affirming care and a loving community. Page is clearly aware not everyone who wants to transition has his resources, but he also understands that representation matters and that telling his truth might make it a little bit easier for others to live theirs.

An affecting and timely memoir.