Chastity Bono, civil rights advocate, journalist, author, musician, and the daughter of Cher and Sonny Bono, is in the early stages of changing her gender.

She will be transitioning from female to male, having already started the sex change process earlier this year, shortly after celebrating her 40th birthday.

Known to family and friends as Chaz, Chastity Bono came out as a lesbian two decades ago. Now she's undergoing bold, gender reassignment treatment.

The star's publicist, Howard Bragman, confirmed the news and issued the following statement, already referring to Chastity Bono with a different pronoun:

"Yes, it's true. Chaz, after many years of consideration, has made the courageous decision to honor his true identity. He is proud of his decision and grateful for the support and respect that has already been shown by his loved ones."

"It is Chaz's hope that his choice to transition will open the hearts and minds of the public regarding this issue, just as his 'coming out' did nearly 20 years ago."

"We ask that the media respect Chaz's privacy during this long process as he will not be doing any interviews at this time."

Bragman declined to answer specific questions about the sex change process, which typically involves hormone therapy, and sometimes - but not always - surgery.

Here's wishing Chaz nothing the best in this endeavor.