America's Got Talent's Julia Scotti Chats About Her Trans Journey

Comedian Julia Scott, aged 63, aka “the crazy old lady of comedy,” took to the stage of America’s Got Talent as Simon Cowell, Howie Mandell, Heidi Klum, Mel B, and millions of viewers looked on. Her mission? To show that age has nothing to do with anything, you don’t stop just because you have gray hair. She killed her set. This innocent-looking granny’s routine was bawdy and hip and the audience couldn’t get enough. In her words, “I got a standing ovation, all four of them voted to pass me... and I didn't have a heart attack!" Particularly taken was fellow comic Mandell who asked Julia why she started so late in life. A tearful Julia paused, and carefully replied, “For the first 28 years of my life, I was known as Rick Scotti.” The judges looked shocked as the audience applauded. Howie responded, “You know, whether you’re a man or a woman…you’re human. And you’re funny! You are talented. And you’re brave.” Brave indeed. At age 48, after doing comedy for 28 years, Julia gave everything up to live her authentic self.

Julia’s success on America’s Got Talent and her triumphant comedy comeback are only a small part of what makes the documentary Julia Scotti: Funny That Way so powerful. The film, with classic footage, family photos, and intimate (and often heartbreaking) revelations from Julia’s friends, family, and past lovers, follows this New Jersey native who, as Rick Scotti, was having a successful run in the 80s era of comedy appearing with big names that included Jerry Seinfeld and Chris Rock and winning Showtime’s Funniest Person in New Jersey contest (barely losing the Showtime national to Ellen DeGeneres).

On this episode of Metrosource Minis, Julia and host Alexander Rodriguez chat about coming out as trans late in life, being shunned by her family and friends, her great comeback, the evolution of comedy, and what’s still on her bucket list. Julia shares all in this truly intimate and candid conversation. Check out Julia’s full interview in the April/May issue of Metrosource Magazine, available on newsstands nationwide or at Metrosource.com