Elizabeth Eden
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Elizabeth Debbie "Liz" Eden (1946–29 September 1987) was an American transsexual woman whose boyfriend attempted to rob a bank to pay for her sex reassignment surgery. The incident was made into the 1975 film Dog Day Afternoon. [1] The character Leon Shermer (played by Chris Sarandon) is based on her. [2]
Born in Ozone Park, Queens Eden was in a relationship with John Wojtowicz when he attempted to rob a Chase Manhattan bank branch in Brooklyn, New York on August 22, 1972. Eden was not aware of the plan, which ended with the arrest of Wojtowicz and his accomplices, and the release of hostages he took. He was sentenced to 20 years and was released in April 1987. Eden used part of his proceeds from the film rights to finance the procedures.
Eden died of pneumonia resulting from AIDS in Rochester, New York.
[edit] References
- ^ Staff report (October 1, 1987). Elizabeth Eden, Transsexual Who Figured in 1975 Movie. New York Times
- ^ Photos, Lisa. The Dog and the Last Real Man: An Interview with John S. Wojtowicz Journal of Bisexuality Volume: 3 Issue: 2
[edit] External links
- Liz Eden (Ernest Aron) Papers via LGBT Center New York
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