Do you remember singer and actress Charice Pempengco? Yes, he was that Filipino singer with powerhouse vocals and a popular YouTube account. His following was so big it got him invited to appear on Ellen and Oprah, helping him gain a greater audience. He even had a collaboration with David Foster.
Well, you can say goodbye to the name Charice. The former Glee star announced a new identity as a trans male named Jake Zyrus on June 18 through his Twitter and Instagram. The announcement was not very grand, but rather a simple thank you for the support and love that people have given to the singer.
My first tweet as Jake. Overwhelmed. Saw all your love comments and I'm so happy. Finally. I love you, everyone and see you soon.
— Jake Zyrus (@jakezyrus) June 20, 2017
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVeBRAqgNbo/?taken-by=jakezyrusmusic&hl=en
Obviously, there are some close-minded people about the announcement, but Jake delivered this kind, forgiving message to them:
I won't let anyone ruin this moment. I won't let anyone ruin my happiness. Thank you to all the beautiful write ups about me.
— Jake Zyrus (@jakezyrus) June 20, 2017
Jake also deleted all previous Tweets and Instagram posts under Charice’s name.
Jake came out as lesbian in 2013 in an interview with Boy Abunda during the Philippine’s talk show “The Buzz.” Jake was also in a relationship with Alyssa Quijano, his girlfriend for 4 years before they recently broke up.
On 2014, when Oprah made a special episode of “Where Are They Now,” Jake made an appearance and told Oprah about changing his then feminine looks for a more masculine style.
During part of the interview Jake responds to a question saying “Basically, my soul is like a male.”
Jake has released four albums so far, his first in 2009 titled My Inspiration and his most recent one titled Catharsis in 2016.
As the euphoria of Pride month is still here, let us all say goodbye to the name Charice and welcome the name Jake Zyrus to the music industry. Jake is currently back at the studio to produce more songs, and I can’t wait to see what he releases in the near future.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BV2Joj0FzAf/?taken-by=jakezyrusmusic&hl=en
