JT Leroy is the pseudonym of an American author known for his semi-autobiographical novels, including "Sarah" and "The Heart Is Deceitful Above All Things." The character of JT Leroy was presented as a young, transgender man who had experienced a troubled childhood, including abuse and homelessness. In the early 2000s, it was revealed that JT Leroy was actually a fictional creation of Laura Albert, who wrote the books and had others portray Leroy in public appearances. This revelation sparked significant controversy and discussions about authenticity in literature and the nature of identity.