NIC Chien, the son of actress and Broadway star Lea Salonga, who recently completed his gender transition, said he remains the same person despite changes in his appearance.
“I am not a different person. I am still Nicole, but I’m not called Nicole anymore because I am not a ‘Nicole’. But I’m still the same person,” he explained. “Some social things might change because I’m a guy, which is fine.”
He shared his experience with hormone therapy as part of his transition, noting that the process was challenging at first, especially while preparing for the Philippine production of the stage musical Into the Woods.
“I had a breakdown because I couldn’t weigh it anymore. I was in so much internal agony. I can’t even put it into words,” he recalled.
Thanks to his family’s support, he said he successfully completed hormone therapy.
“Honestly, it worked out. I’m happy with the results, especially seeing the change in my voice and my Adam’s apple. I love it!”
