At 63, Caragh Donley, a senior producer for the Kelly Clarkson Show, courageously came out as transgender, embracing a new life in New York City with the support of famous friends like Kelly Clarkson and Sharon Stone, and proving that it’s never too late to live authentically.

In a remarkable story of courage and transformation, Caragh Donley, a senior producer for the Kelly Clarkson Show, publicly came out as transgender at the age of 63, marking a significant turning point in her life.

Now 65, Donley has relocated to New York City, embracing a fresh start with a new name and a renewed sense of purpose.

Reflecting on her journey, she states, “Everybody always says it’s never too late to do what you want to do, but if I have proven anything, it’s truly never too late to do something that’s burning a hole in your heart.”

Donley’s career in the entertainment industry spans decades, beginning as a journalist for PEOPLE magazine in the 1990s, where she covered high-profile events, including the infamous O.J. Simpson trial and the lives of stars from shows like Beverly Hills, 90210.

Throughout her career, she has produced notable programs such as The Queen Latifah Show and VH1’s Behind the Music.

Despite her professional success, Donley felt an unresolved part of her identity that she could no longer ignore.

Growing up in the 1960s and 70s, Donley recognized her true self but felt constrained by societal norms that discouraged open discussions about gender identity.

After years of therapy and attempts at hormone replacement therapy, she found herself at a crossroads when the Kelly Clarkson Show relocated from Los Angeles to New York in 2023.

“I had to decide if I wanted to keep my job… or just stay in L.A. in my house, spending every night alone with my cat and dog, drinking myself into oblivion,” she recalls.

Ultimately, she chose authenticity over isolation, stating, “It wasn’t that hard of a decision.”

Donley credits several influential figures for their support during her coming-out process, including Kelly Clarkson herself, country music icon Dolly Parton, and actress Sharon Stone.

While preparing for a segment featuring Parton, Donley almost revealed her true self but was interrupted when Parton had to go on stage.

Instead, she confided in Robert Ramos, Clarkson’s hairstylist, marking the first step in her journey toward living authentically.

The encouragement from her famous friends played a significant role in her decision to embrace her identity. Donley recalls a pivotal conversation with Sharon Stone, who emphasized the importance of living authentically and without regret.

Following her public coming out, Stone expressed immense happiness for Donley, reinforcing the positive impact of their exchange.

As she navigates her new life, Donley reminisces about her childhood dreams of being a girl, which were sparked by her fascination with the character Tabitha from the classic show Bewitched.

In a serendipitous twist, she received a message from Erin Murphy, the actress who portrayed Tabitha, asking, “When are we going to have that play date?” This connection further solidified Donley’s belief in the possibility of living her truth.

Donley has been with Kelly Clarkson since the show’s inception and describes the singer as “an angel who walks amongst us.”

When she came out to Clarkson, the entire team responded with warmth and understanding, creating an environment where Donley felt safe to express her true self.

This supportive atmosphere culminated in a special segment on the show dedicated to transgender issues, which Donley produced alongside Clarkson and actress Laverne Cox.

Now, as she embraces her identity, Donley aims to become “America’s friendly neighborhood trans lady,” hoping to normalize conversations about transgender experiences.

“So many people have to stay stealth, or they’re not able to express themselves for whatever reason. I have absolutely nothing to lose,” she asserts, emphasizing the importance of visibility and acceptance.

Through her journey, Donley has also formed close relationships with fellow entertainers, including Melissa Gilbert, who supported her during her transition, and Patricia Clarkson and David Duchovny, who contributed to her successful one-woman show, He Said, She Says, which won the audience award at New York City’s Fringe Festival.

Caragh Donley’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the belief that it is never too late to embrace one’s true self.

As she continues to navigate this new chapter in her life, she remains committed to advocating for acceptance, hoping to inspire others to live authentically and without fear.