“Love & Hip Hop” Star D. Smith Detransitioning, Says Living As A Woman Proved He Wanted To Be A Man

D. Smith just made one of the most personal announcements of his life, revealing on Thursday that he’s detransitioning after spending twelve years living publicly as a transgender woman.

The Grammy-nominated producer posted on Instagram that he’ll now present as a man and use he/him pronouns, marking a significant shift in how he’s choosing to move through the world.

This isn’t about erasing the past, though. He was crystal clear about that part.

“Living my life as a woman for 12 years showed me the man that I wanted to become,” he wrote in his statement, emphasizing that those years weren’t a mistake or something he’s trying to bury.

The decision has been building for months, and he plans to share the full story when he’s ready. What matters right now is that he’s being honest about where he is.

Smith came out as transgender back in 2014, and two years later he became the first openly trans cast member on “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta,” using the platform to educate people about the diversity within the trans community.

Before that, he was already making waves as a multi-platinum producer who’d worked with Katy Perry, Lil Wayne, and CeeLo Green, earning Grammy nominations for his production work.

“Life is constantly pushing me to grow. Even when I feel tired, discouraged, or alone, life has given me strength because I chose purpose over fear. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who supported me throughout every season of my life,” D. Smith said.

The music industry had embraced him early on, but that changed when he came out as trans. He faced rejection and was essentially shunned by the business he’d helped build.

Despite all that, Smith never stopped creating. He directed his documentary debut, “Kokomo City,” in 2023, following four Black transgender sex workers and telling stories that mainstream media typically ignores.

This rare announcement can’t be overlooked. Public detransitioning is uncommon, and Smith’s handling of it with such grace and clarity sets a different tone than what usually dominates these conversations.