Chaz Bono says he's proud of 'DWTS' effort

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Chaz Bono says he's proud of what he accomplished as a contestant on the U.S. television show "Dancing With the Stars."

After his elimination Tuesday night due to low scores, the transgendered activist said he entered the ABC dancing competition to "show America a different kind of man."

"I know that if there was somebody like me on TV when I was growing up, my whole life would have been different," he said.

The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation praised Bono's courage and determination, The Hollywood Reporter said.

"Chaz bravely put on his dancing shoes and became a fan favorite, showing millions of viewers that he's like any other guy," GLAAD acting President Mike Thompson said. "Though it's sad to see him go, Chaz has helped countless people better understand what it means to be transgender. He should be commended for both his courage and determination. We hope Chaz's time on Dancing With the Stars is just the beginning in a long line of transgender-inclusive programming across the media."

Bono's mother, Cher, fervently supported her son throughout the competition. "I Have Got 2Hold my TEMPER ! MY Tears R OK ! Congratulations Chaz I'm SO PROUD OF U ! This was YOUR Quest...& u Followed your Star," she tweeted Tuesday night.