Producer D. Smith Announced His Detransition
The Grammy-nominated producer and filmmaker shared that he will now live and present as a man.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Hip-Hop and Rap
Two-time Grammy-nominated producer D. Smith has announced his detransition to living as a man. The filmmaker and reality television personality shared the decision via Instagram after living as a transgender woman for 12 years.
Why it matters
The announcement marks a significant personal change for the artist, who previously rose to prominence within reality television and documentary filmmaking circles. Smith plans to share more about his journey in the future.
D. Smith has received 2 Grammy nominations throughout his career as a producer. His 2023 documentary Kokomo City also earned 2 awards for its exploration of trans experiences in New York and Atlanta.
The players
D. Smith
He is a two-time Grammy-nominated music producer and a documentary filmmaker who rose to fame on reality television.
The details
D. Smith, who appeared on the fifth season of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta in 2016, directed the critically acclaimed 2023 documentary Kokomo City. He utilized his Instagram account to communicate his decision to pivot from his previous public presentation.
Timeline
D. Smith joined the cast of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta in 2016.
Smith directed the documentary film Kokomo City in 2023.
The official announcement of his detransition occurred on September 18, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This announcement shifts the public narrative for a filmmaker whose career trajectory was deeply tied to his public advocacy and work in documentaries like Kokomo City. It highlights the evolving nature of public figures who use their platforms to navigate and communicate personal identity changes.
Followers and fans of the producer can expect updates on his life and future career projects via his social media channels. The announcement changes the context for how audiences will view his past work as a filmmaker.
The takeaway
Smith’s public transparency highlights the non-linear nature of personal identity for high-profile creators. His transition from reality TV to documentary filmmaking provides a foundation for how he might document his future experiences.
Further reading
For more on evolving public figures in music, visit the Hip-Hop and Rap section.
