Holly Woodlawn was among the most vibrant and fearless figures to emerge from Andy Warhol’s Factory scene in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born in Puerto Rico, she moved to Miami as a child. She later ran away to New York City as a teenager, inspired by the glamor and rebellion of underground culture. There, she transformed into Holly Woodlawn, embracing her identity with boldness and humor. She became a Warhol Superstar after starring in Paul Morrissey’s 1970 film ‘Trash’, where her raw, unfiltered performance captivated audiences and critics alike. Her electrifying screen presence led to newfound fame, even catching the attention of Hollywood icons like George Cukor, who campaigned for her to receive an Academy Award nomination.

Beyond her cinematic contributions, Woodlawn became a cultural trailblazer, breaking barriers for transgender representation at a time when visibility was scarce. She was immortalized in pop culture history through Lou Reed’s 1972 song Walk on the Wild Side, which referenced her journey from Miami to New York and her fearless embrace of life. Throughout the 1970s and beyond, she continued to work in film and theater, though she often struggled with financial instability. Despite this, her magnetic personality and unapologetic authenticity made her a beloved figure within the LGBTQ+ community and the underground art world. Her memoir, A Low Life in High Heels, co-written with Jeff Copeland in 1991, detailed her adventures, friendships, and struggles with humor and resilience, cementing her place as a legendary voice.

In the late 80s, Holly came to San Francisco to do a show. Sadly, the show bombed. Holly was stranded in San Francisco, and she lived at my flat on Polk Street. That was a wild ride for sure. One fond memory was going to the closing party in Saucilito. All the famous Rock stars were there. I remember spending time with a young Micky Thomas who had joined up with Elvin Bishoo. he had a huge hit with “I Fooled Around And Fell In Love. It was time to go back to San Francisco, but we could not find Holly anywhere. However, when we checked the Hot Tub, there was Holly and Elvin together singing “I Fooled Around and Fell In Love. Holly ended her stay in the Bay Area by hooking up with my pal Roger, who became Holly’s Hairdresser and Boyfriend. They moved to Hollywood, where they both suffered from alcohol abuse, with Roger passing away before Holly left us. I had known Roger for years, and it seemed he liked to party but maintained.  Holly and my dear friend Cherry Vanilla were very close from their Warhol days.. I last saw Roger at a 99-cent store, and he reeked of booze. Roger came from a very wealthy family from the Sacramento area and was a trust fund baby… Rest in Power, Roger and Holly

Pauley Perrette and I attended her wake at The Chateau Marmont. Also in attendance were Ann Magnuson, Fayette Hauser,  Constance Cooper, Cherry Vanilla, Bryan Rabin, John Waters, and many more

Even after her passing in 2015, Woodlawn’s influence endures. Her story continues to inspire new generations of artists, filmmakers, and activists who celebrate her legacy of defying societal norms with style, wit, and courage. Books like Love You Madly, Holly Woodlawn serve as a testament to her impact, offering intimate insights into her life and friendships. As a Warhol Superstar,  Pioneer, and underground icon, Holly Woodlawn remains an unforgettable force in the history of counterculture and cinema.