The Lady and the Dale

Meet Liz Carmichael, trailblazing promoter of the fuel-efficient car of the future: The Dale. Just as publicity for the automobile reaches its peak in 1974, Liz is outed as a trans woman who's spent the last several decades running from the law with her wife and children. Learn how it all came to a crashing halt as Liz's family and friends guide us through her chaotic life.

With Liz at the helm, the 20th Century Motor Car Company launches The Dale, which soon takes on a life of its own. Investigative reporters question the operation and its leader, leading to government attempts to reign in Liz's sales practices, upheaval at the company, and a fatal shooting.

Just as Liz moves the company to Dallas, news breaks of a murder at the 20th Century Motor Car Company showroom. As the press turns on her and law enforcement begins to close in, Liz once again goes on the lam. But she's soon found and subjected to mounting media scrutiny, transphobia, and a lengthy, unpredictable trial.

1989. Liz and her family are running a roadside flower business outside of Austin, Texas when she's exposed by a true crime TV show. After being forced to serve 18 months in a men's prison, Liz is outed once again by the media upon her release. Liz's legacy as a trans entrepreneur and parent is contextualized within the broader history of discrimination against trans people.