Tanqueray

One of Humans of New York's most followed stories: the tale of Stephanie Johnson, better known as Tanqueray.

One of Humans of New York’s most followed stories: the tale of Stephanie Johnson, better known as Tanqueray.

The Incredible True Story of Tanqueray: From a Brutal Childhood to Becoming New York's Most Unforgettable Burlesque Dancer

Tanqueray is the memoir of Stephanie Johnson, a woman who emerged from a troubled youth to become one of the most well-known burlesque dancers in New York City. Featured in the storytelling phenomenon Humans of New York, Stephanie instantly captured the attention of millions with her outrageous fur coat and captivating personal narrative.

Reeling from a brutal childhood, Stephanie was immersed in a world of go-go dancers and hustlers, dirty cops and gangsters. Despite the odds, she was determined to become the fiercest thing the city had ever seen – and she succeeded.

Real, raw, and unapologetically honest, Tanqueray is a memoir filled with never-before-told stories of Stephanie's struggles and triumphs through good times and bad. With personal photos from her own collection and glimpses of New York City from back in the day, Brandon Stanton brings to life the story of a woman as fabulous, unbowed, and irresistible as the city she lives in.