Table of Contents
Who is Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad?
Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad, born in 1949 in Grimstad, Norway, is a distinguished figure in the realm of medicine, sexology, and transgender advocacy. Renowned for their extensive work in the areas of gender identity and sexual orientation, Benestad has been an influential presence in the Norwegian LGBTQ+ community for many years. Born as Esben Benestad, they later embraced the name Esther Pirelli to mirror their gender identity. Openly transgender, Benestad identifies as both male and female and prefers to be addressed with they/them pronouns.
What made Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad famous?
Elsa Almรฅs’ spouse, Benestad, gained widespread recognition through their groundbreaking work in the field of sexology, after graduating from the University of Bergen in 1974 with a degree in medicine. As one of the pioneer physicians in Norway to specialize in sexology, they have been practicing as a general practitioner in Grimstad since 1980. However, what truly set them apart and catapulted them to fame was their unwavering advocacy for transgender rights. Benestad has tirelessly worked towards fostering a better understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, making significant contributions to the field and society.
Is Esben Esther Pirelli Benestad trans?
The path to fame for Benestad was paved by their extensive work in the field of sexology, marked by the publication of several influential books such as “Transgendered: The Art of Being” and “Gender, Love and Sexuality: An Introduction to Sexology”. Their groundbreaking work earned them multiple accolades, including the Gay Person of the Year Award in 2000 and the King’s Medal of Merit in silver in 2016. Their life and work were also highlighted in the 2010 documentary “All About My Father”. Despite facing criticism for their views on gender identity and the use of puberty blockers in transgender youth, Benestad has remained a staunch advocate for understanding and acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities. In recent years, they have continued to contribute to the field as a physician, sexologist, and professor at the University of Agder, maintaining a significant presence in discussions about gender identity and sexual orientation both in Norway and internationally.