Director: Big Brother (3rd season of HaAh HaGadol)
Release Year: 2019
Eden Yohanan, a 29-year-old model and actress from Tel Aviv, has become a prominent figure in the Israeli entertainment industry, known not only for her career but also for her journey as a transgender woman. Born in Afula under the name Aviad, Eden first gained public attention in 2013 when she participated in the reality show "Plastic Dreams" (חלומות מפלסטיק), where she shared her personal story, opening up about her transition and the challenges she faced. Her visibility grew further later that same year when she appeared on the television series "The Life of Avi the Singer" (החיים של אבי הזמר), playing the role of a transgender woman, a role that mirrored her own experience in many ways.
As a model, Eden has worked with many high-profile brands, including one of her most notable campaigns for Nike, which significantly elevated her visibility in the fashion world. However, it is her personal story and journey as a transgender woman that has made her an inspiring figure for many. In 2019, Eden's participation in the third season of "HaAh HaGadol VIP" (The Big Brother VIP 3), the Israeli VIP version of the Big Brother series, brought her story into the national spotlight once again. Hosted by Liron Weizman and Guy Zu-Aretz, this season of HaAh HaGadol showcased a diverse group of celebrities, but Eden's inclusion in the house was particularly significant. She entered the competition with the aim of being seen for who she truly is - Eden Yohanan, a woman. She emphasized that she did not want to be defined by her transgender identity or the LGBTQ+ community. Instead, her goal was to be recognized as a woman in her own right, irrespective of her past or the gender-affirming surgery she had undergone.
Eden's participation was not about carrying a flag for the LGBTQ+ movement; it was about being understood for who she was at that moment in time - a woman living in her truth. Eden’s participation in HaAh HaGadol VIP was not only a personal milestone for her but also an opportunity for viewers to witness her journey from a different perspective. While Eden was inside the Big Brother house, her twin sister, Danit Garti, kept a close eye on the events that unfolded, including a seemingly romantic triangle involving Eden, Natalie Dadon, and Liran Shtrauber. Danit, in an exclusive interview with TMI, shared insights into their shared childhood and the family dynamics that shaped Eden's path. Danit revealed that growing up, Eden faced considerable challenges due to her gender identity. Their parents, who had divorced when they were young, played a significant role in the family's decisions during that time.
Their mother moved to the North of Israel, while their father stayed in Jerusalem. Eventually, their mother remarried, and Eden and Danit were raised by their stepfather, Yossi, who Danit described as a good but somewhat primitive man, struggling to understand Eden's behavior. As Eden began to express more feminine traits, such as growing her hair long and wearing women’s clothing, their stepfather became uncomfortable, especially with the fear that Eden’s behavior might influence her brother, who was still young. In an effort to address Eden’s behavior and provide structure, the family decided to send her to a boarding school. Danit explained that this decision was partly due to their parents feeling ill-equipped to support Eden both emotionally and academically. At the time, Eden was struggling with her inner feelings and her desire to express herself authentically, but her family did not have the resources or understanding to help her navigate this period of her life.
Despite the challenges she faced in the boarding school, Eden remained determined to live as her true self. Danit reflected on how Eden was always strong-willed and outspoken, even though her time at the school was far from easy. After three years, Eden requested to return home, motivated in part by the birth of her younger brother, Itai, and her desire to be close to him. Despite all the difficulties Eden encountered, Danit emphasized that her sister had always been resilient, overcoming obstacles through her own strength and determination. Eden’s story is one of self-empowerment, resilience, and unwavering commitment to living as her authentic self, regardless of societal expectations or family dynamics. Her journey to becoming a successful model and actress, coupled with her decision to join HaAh HaGadol VIP, speaks to her ongoing desire to shape her own narrative and be seen for who she truly is. Her appearance on the show was a bold move, not only to gain fame and recognition for her talent but also to advocate for personal authenticity and acceptance. Throughout her time in HaAh HaGadol VIP, Eden demonstrated that being true to oneself, irrespective of one’s past or the challenges one faces, is a path worth following.
By entering the Big Brother house, Eden aimed to prove that her identity as a woman was not something defined by her transgender journey but by her present self - the person she had become and the woman she had always been on the inside. Her story resonates deeply with many, especially those who feel marginalized or misunderstood, and she continues to be an inspiration for those seeking to live authentically. Eden's participation in HaAh HaGadol VIP highlighted the importance of visibility and representation for transgender people in the media. Through her platform, she advocated for a more inclusive society, where individuals are recognized for who they are, not just for their differences. As she continues to navigate the world of modeling, acting, and public life, Eden Yohanan remains a powerful symbol of strength, resilience, and the pursuit of personal truth.
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