Austin Cross-dressing Legend Leslie Cochran Dies

By Jenny University Of Texas

Legendary Austinite, Leslie Cochran, is the only transvestite homeless person to ever become a living, breathing, city landmark. That is until recently. Austin just got a little less weird with the passing of the city’s beloved, homeless icon. Known for his stilettos and fondness of thongs, Leslie turned more heads than slutty, under-age college girls. You could always count on Leslie for interesting conversation, and he really found his way into the hearts of the people of Austin. When he suffered a brutal beating that left him unconscious in 2010, the city came together and raised enough money to cover the brain surgery that saved his life. I had the pleasure of interviewing him briefly at Marley Fest after he left the hospital, and I was happy to find him up to his usual antics. Unfortunately, Leslie couldn’t be revived this time around, and this year’s SXSW definitely won’t be the same without his strut on the streets. RIP Leslie, we really love you, (wo)man. In memory of, we’ve compiled some of his finest moments.