Jake Lanigan, 21 years old, from Donaghmede, North Dublin, is performing on tomorrow’s episode of Ireland’s Got Talent, he was assigned female at birth but was inspired to come out after being involved in a car crash in 2017.

“I was born as a girl but I’m transitioning into a male”, he said.

Three months after the accident, Jake took the plunge and started his journey to become his true self because he realised that life is “too short” to not be honest with ourselves.

“I was in a car crash in December [2017] and I realised then I had to step up and be whom I want to be, so that led to me coming out as trans“. Said, Jake

Speaking before of his audition on the Virgin Media talent show, Jake, from Donaghmede, North Dublin, said: “I haven’t had the heart to accept myself until recently because I felt so alone for years.”

He will sing a heartfelt song devoted to his mum Aishlinn, who was by his side for the audition in front of judges Louis Walsh, Michelle Visage, Jason Byrne and Denise Van Outen.

Jake, who has been writing music since he was a child and who counts Eminem among his biggest musical influences, told of how his mum has supported him during his transition over the past year, along with his mental health struggles while he was facing puberty.

Explaining the inspiration behind the original song he performed for the judges, he said: “I wrote my own song – it’s a rap song”.

“It’s for my mam, in recognition of her being through a lot. I’ve been through depression, suicidal thoughts, stuff like that. Then recently, this year, I came out as transgender so that changed that. This is really just an ode because she’s really saved my life, to be honest. She’s been there through everything.” he concluded.

Tune into Virgin Media One on Saturday February 23 at 7.20pm for Ireland’s Got Talent.