Shawn Mendes dismissed the gay rumors — again.
From the moment Shawn Mendes became famous, stories around his sexuality swirled.
Although the “In My Blood” singer set the record straight years ago, fans continue to question the issue on social media. Many point to videos of his supposedly feminine mannerism as proof of their claims.
In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, Mendes discusses the gay rumors again. He describes how damaging the speculation has been to him, and claims that it’s potentially disabling to others who struggle with their sexuality.
“I thought, ‘You f**king guys are so lucky I’m not actually gay and terrified of coming out,’” he said. “That’s something that kills people. That’s how sensitive it is. Do you like the songs? Do you like me? Who cares if I’m gay?”
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In a 2016 Snapchat video, Mendes addressed fans who said he had a gay vibe. He explained that he was straight and his sexuality shouldn’t be up for discussion.
“Maybe I am a little more feminine — but that’s the way it is. That’s why I am me.”
Mendes ashamedly admitted that he feels the need to be seen with women in public to “prove to people that I’m not gay.”
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“Even though in my heart I know that it’s not a bad thing,” he continued. “There’s still a piece of me that thinks that. And I hate that side of me.”
The 20-year-old Mendes said he “woke up in a cold sweat” and “felt sick” after Taylor Swift posted a video to her Instagram account of her putting eye makeup on him. Although he permitted Swift to post the video, he immediately regretted it. “I was like, ‘F**k, why did I let her post that?’ I just fed the fire that I’m terrified of.”
To read Mendes’ full interview, head over to Rolling Stone.
