Congratulations, Clay Aiken!

Abbi Tue, Mar 24, 2009 at 09:43 AM EST

I am married with 5 kids and I really hope when my children are grown they aren't judgemental people. I hope they are happy healthy adults and I will support them nomatter who they marry. Gay, Straight, Black, White it doesnt matter to me. I may not know the bible forward and back but I know it says we should stay within our own. Really? Does it not say something about not judging others? I will not be the one to judge. I have to much time left on this earth to waste it on hating people. I hope the future generation feel the same way.....

Tiffany Thu, Feb 12, 2009 at 09:11 PM EST

The fact that he's gay doesn't matter to me at all. The fact that he LIED about it DOES matter to me. Like somebody else said, I will never believe anything else he says. He even went so far as to write a crappy book about how virtuous he was and how he wanted to be a good role model, how his concerts and everything had to be "family-friendly," etc. Yeah - that's why there are photos all over the Internet of him grabbing Merle Dandrich's breasts and flipping off his boyfriend. Now THAT'S a great role model and very family-friendly - NOT!! Bottom line is he makes crappy CDs that don't sell. He realized that even the most die-hard Claymates who buy multiple copies of each of his CDs couldn't keep him afloat any longer, so he "came out," hoping to pick up a bigger, more "liberal," "hip" fan base. He only thinks of himself.

Judas Wed, Oct 15, 2008 at 05:53 PM EST

AJ: Well put & you rock! Even better, you weren't afraid to say it.

AJ Sun, Oct 12, 2008 at 05:34 AM EST

For all that most of the general public thought Clay was gay, many of his fans WERE shocked by his announcement. When you're a fan of someone you tend to think that they are truthful. Clay denied being gay many times, in many ways, and treated the whole question of his orientation and the runours as a big joke.

I feel sick that Clay lied to his fans so many times. I can't believe anything he says ever again. He took half a million dollars from People rather than blogging to his fans first, after lying to them and letting them defend him for years. That's the Measure of the man. He treated his fans like dirt. We defended his honesty and integrity for years, and he let us find out the truth from a scuzzy gossip queen like Perez Hilton.

As a gay man, he has lost all his attraction to me. I don't want to hear him singing a love song knowing that he's thinking of a man. It just doesn't work! He belongs to the gay community now.

Kit Sat, Sep 27, 2008 at 11:05 PM EST

Who cares if Clay is gay? It's been obvious for years. This announcement won't help him sell more albums nor will it stop his record label from getting rid of him. Go away Clay!

Judas Sat, Sep 27, 2008 at 05:43 PM EST

I'm really disappointed in Clay- I thought he was just a shy guy who didn't go around chasing tail like other music artists. Now I see him as deceitful, and a hypocrite to his lyrics. His music was the only music I ever paid money for. I'm forwarding all my respect from him to the guy who writes his lyrics.B

Tiffany Fri, Sep 26, 2008 at 01:04 PM EST

Congratulations, Clay! You've always been an inspiration to so many (myself included) and I love that you are continuing to inspire us by showing us that you can have faith in Christ and receive His amazing gift of salvation regardless of your sexuality. He's there for us all. Thanks for continuing to be a positive influence. You're going to be a great dad!

Susan Fri, Sep 26, 2008 at 10:12 AM EST

Alex- You clearly KNOW a lot about the minds of gays,about how they are "uncivil" about dissent (okay,how about the people here condemning them to everlasting hellfire?),how their "minds war against themselves",how they are on "edge of sanity",and their "anguish." How do you know sooooo much about gays without being one yourself? You protest too much, methinks.

And here are some straight people who've got PLENTY of mental anguish- the ugly Sharon Stone/Phil Bronstein divorce, David Duchovny's sex addiction, Hugh Hefner with his three girlfriends. So, please, quit with the double standard. There are PLENTY of straight people with issues, unhappy marriages, unhappy live-in relationships, divorces. But wait. You only hate the "gay agenda."

ALex Fri, Sep 26, 2008 at 02:11 AM EST

The anger with which the gays react to civil dissent on here is telling. Homosexuals live on the edge of sanity. Any light shone on their illness is greeted with rage.

The gay person's mind wages war against itself. Knowing that his or her behavior is contrary to that person's nature causes extreme mental anguish. Some gays try to blame the anguish on opposition to homosexual behavior. Each one knows the truth on a deeper level, and so the rage. We must resist the gay agenda to protect those of our children who will in the future be vulnerable to this insanity. Years and lives are being lost to this.

Quiv Fri, Sep 26, 2008 at 12:10 AM EST

I can't wait til all you "fundies" die and meet your maker; boy, are you in for a big shock! Jesus is a raving Drag Queen!

Zet Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 06:32 PM EST

Wow. Whenever I wonder why someone doesn't jump out of the closet, here, in the 21st century, I need to reread some of these comments. You're a brave boy, Clay. Even though there are lots of great people commenting, I think I'd prefer to hold the closet door shut than be near some of those others. (And why are they usually mad or smug?)

Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 06:12 PM EST

I agree with some of the real gays on this board. Clay had his people call the magazine. It was Clay that had his people then 'leak' it to Perez Hilton. Then Clay had some calls placed to GMA. Why? Because outside of Broadway Street in NYC, the people of Mainstreet USA had forgotten about Clay. The Idol alums just don't have a long shelf life. His last disc only sold 152K? These 'shocked' Claymates need to stop trying to defend him from the people who don't like/buy songs in the first place, and either buy his latest disk or just plain send him some money. Or is it all about attention?

re: elm Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 06:01 PM EST

Any spoiled, rich person who would rather buy a baby made in a test-tube instead of adopting a kid and giving them a chance is a piece of crap. Selfish people don't need to breed. I lost all respect for Clay and Jaymes when they didn't adopt. NEWSFLASH: there are six and a half billion hungry-mouths on this rock; and the rock is mostly covered w/ water.

Lynn Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 05:44 PM EST

whoa. Do people really take the homo-haters seriously in 2008? I know plenty of real macho-types like cops, military, and karateka/boxers who all think that homophobes are really closeted gays. Same about the religious fanatics --esp the christian and arab/muslim gay-bashers: all secretly gay and full of guilt and self-loathing like SUSAN/VALENCIA said. And the women here? ...their daughters are the same 'party lesbians' who make out w/ their friends at parties and Mommy pretends not to know. You don't have to be a detective: homophobes are closeted, guilty gays.

Shorty Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 05:18 PM EST

I always figures he was but now that his son is born he doensn't want to hide anymore..my foot!! what a way to start raising an innocent child! its just digusting!! i know we are not his (or anyones) judges..but this is just crazy! and people are praising him for coming "out of the closet"! Doesn't want to raise his child in lies...well he's a big lie! he wasn't born like that he chooses that! God made Adam and Eve! If God intended for us to be attracted to the same sex he wouldn't have made it adam and eve!! Homosexuality is a spirit, a perversion, not of God...no way in the world can someone be a "gay christian" because the life you're living and the things you do, do no give any kind of Glory to God what-so-ever!!!

Tonic Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 05:05 PM EST

Jesus, save us all from your followers! Sheesh, if all the hate produced by the "Christians" would drive even a half-educated person far, far away from their religion. I DO realize that not all Christians are like that, but it's sad the vast numbers that live in fear and hatred - exactly the opposite of what Jesus stood for.

Gail Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 03:43 PM EST

I can't believe people are surprised about this. Just don't get it.

http://fansofdavid.com

Phil Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 03:20 PM EST

After reading through many of these hateful posts, not even towards Clay, but towards homos in general, I've come to one HOPEFUL conclusion: I really hope alot of you idiots aren't registered to vote. But it makes sense, Claymates used to attck people who said Clay was secretly gay, now that he's out, they have to attack the entire demeanor of homosexuals everywhere. I don't know whats scarier, y'all complaining that Clay shouldn't have fathered a child cause he's gay, or the fact that many of you hateful people probably have children yourself & are raising them with your horrific values. I don't care what religion you are, you're all human, which means you are all imperfect in some way or form no matter how "Christian" you live your life. I'm not getting into anymore arguments with anyone here, but you all seriously need to take a step back & realize you're living in 2008, where the U.S. in on the verge of a Recession, where you're gonna need all the help, gay or straight you can get!

AC Walker Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 03:03 PM EST

Nothing much to add about Clay himself, or about the fact that he "came out" because of all the people who convince themselves and others that there are very few gay people and thus they are free to be demonized and condemned to hell. (Reading some of these hateful people's comments makes me nauseous, but I'm glad they're not censored, because it reminds me of how much work there is to be done.) There is not arguing with the ignorant or the evil, after all.
I do have to laugh at the people complaining about Clay "having to annouce it on the cover of a magazine." Um, Clay is not the editor nor the publisher of People. He didn't "put himself on the cover." The people who run People (the most vacuous people in the world) did that. Learn something about the magazine business, ignorant people.

Jerome Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 02:16 PM EST

Now he'll make Broadway and Standards albums. Yawn.

Hey Jessica - - Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 02:00 PM EST

Way to spread G*d's love, you loathsome hypocrite.

Lee Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 01:42 PM EST

Slezak, re: your comment "I wish we lived in a world where Aiken's announcement wasn't considered brave, but rather mundane", I think we are already there. When I brought up the Clay announcement at lunch with co-workers it was met with "so what?" attitudes. And btw - I live in the middle of the country where everyone is backward and uneducated, according to many on this board anyway.

Marco Calvin Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 01:01 PM EST

I'm not sure that it's the words "I'm gay" that are caught in Clay Aiken's throat. LOL

Susan Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 12:52 PM EST

Your story is understandable,Valencia. My friend who runs the Christian store (and is basically out of the closet while in it) carried Dr. Joseph Nicolosi's book "How to prevent homosexuality." Yep, Nicolosi thinks if parents raised their kids right,they wouldn't end up gay. He's famous for telling Exodus gatherings,"Fathers,hug your sons,or else they'll end up seeking the embraces of other men." He also suggests that there be rigid gender roles in the home for boys,and that fathers shower with their sons to compare the size of their manhoods (ahem)

There's some high-profile self-loathing. The notoriously homophobic Phyllis Schlafly and Anita Bryant have gay sons who help them in their anti-gay campaigns. THAT'S self-loathing(!!!)

Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 12:27 PM EST

...come on now. Everybody has got a least a gay cousin. Some of you suburbanite Neo-Cons from the Party of Family Secrets even have some gay Mommies or Daddies ['cough'Karl Rove'cough]. hehe

Valencia Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 12:21 PM EST

To Susan: I think you're right about the self-loathing part. I live in the American South and and the biggest "I hate Fa@@ots" guy that I've known all these years has a secret 'friendship' from way back in Jr High days that he doesn't talk about. Someone shamed him about it and he broke off his boy-crush out of guilt. Now, he claims to hate gays, all because of some experimentation between some really horny kids. Everybody I know that knows a homophobe from way back will tell you a similar story like that. You're not gonna stamp out homophobia, just like racism.

Bill Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 12:05 PM EST

GayKev - when gay people can do romantic things in public like holding hands or a chaste kiss without any fear whatsoever of being berated or bashed for being gay in public, then they won't "need" to come out. As to why and when Clay Aiken or anyone else chooses to come out, it is their journey and we don't have any right to ridicule that process. Unless, of course, that person has been not only denying their own sexuality but abusing and hurting others who have completed the journey. Then I say, drag 'em out of the closet and give 'em hell for the pain they have caused.

wakeforce Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 12:00 PM EST

The reaction by some of the people here is just more proof of what some of us already knows. People are idiots! I don't what to hear about liberals being intolerant. The hate we have against the middle of the country is more than well earned! Get off your bible elevated soapbox and open your minds. Jessica is an idiot!

Susan Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:55 AM EST

Comparing Clay to an alcoholic or self-destructive drug abuser is WRONG because he's not. It's not as if he'll have a "frustrated and empty life" because he'll never ask you on a date,Jessica. He's a CELEBRITY. Just because he's not interested in your kind doesn't mean he'll end up badly. There are PLENTY of heterosexual celebrities living "frustrated and empty lives" (Hugh Hefner with his 3 girlfriends,David Duchovny's internet pr0n addiction)

I have a friend who runs a Christian store who's still in the closet. There's an element of self-loathing. He's compared gay marriage to "marrying a dog,or a horse." Yet his bald,older male friend is ALWAYS at his side,and his nieces&nephews BOTH call them "Uncle." It's sad to see.

Clay would be living a "frustrated and empty life" if he were faking it with a woman,and drowning himself in drugs&alcohol if he were trying to make himself straight.

Jessica Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:43 AM EST

Such a sad thing, though you always hoped he was just feminine. His child will bear the worst emotional burden of his father's frustrated and empty life. We've got to stop telling people it's OK to be gay. It's not. It's like watching someone stuck in a drug or alcohol addiction. They're stuck and unhappy and they won't open their eyes to the truth, that they're being self destructive.

ELM Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:41 AM EST

...inferior gene pools were supposed to die off in the 'survival of the fittest' rule. The barren, in turn, were supposed to help bring up and train the over-populated offspring of the breeders. That is Evolution. Adoption is common sense. Narcissism is epidemic.

Valencia Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:36 AM EST

Yeah, well even the vacuous bubblehead no-talent Nichole Ritchie got the whole "insert tab A into slot B" of natural procreation right. Clay is an idiot.

Michael H. Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:35 AM EST

For the record I would like to state that I am no fan of Clay Aiken and I do not find him "courageous" for choosing to come out now - he missed that opportunity about 5 years ago.

However - I am happy that he did finally decide to be honest. And - if he wants to have a baby with a close friend, that's his prerogative.

My motto is "live and let live" - as long as you don't hurt anyone. WHO is he hurting?

And for the Bible thumpers - "Judge not lest ye be judged."

Michael H. Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:31 AM EST

To Elm - how exactly is in vitro fertilization against evolution? Advances in science make evolution possible.

Also - one of Rosie's children was created through in vitro fertilization and carried by her partner Kelli.

And - Madonna's adopted son WAS "wanted" by his birth father but the birth father relinquished his parental rights so his son could have a better life.

Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:28 AM EST

A rich, spoiled 28 year old buys himself a baby from a laboratory made with a "friend" of his? WTF? ...you people are defending this guy?

Elm Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 11:13 AM EST

Claymate here: who sees Clay as a rags-to-riches American Dream story of a kid who goes from a camp counselor for 'special needs' youth to a world-famous entertainer. Yep, I figured his pref; just like I did Boy/Culture Club, George/Wham, and Freddie/Queen. I didn't buy his CD's but I thought the world of him. But for him to deny a kid the same rags-to-riches chance by adoption is a slap in the face. Say what you will about Rosie, Madonna, and Angelina --but they took in kids nobody wanted and gave them a loving home and changed their lives! Name one thing that is against BOTH Creation and Evolution: In Vitro fertilization. Americans are to the point of worshiping the rich and famous, allowing them to do ANYTHING. You don't need to buy a baby made in a test tube, you need to adopt one and give them a chance at a better life. VANCE was right; next these posters will be defending the celebs rights to have themselves cloned. Wake Up! You are CARELESS w/ Life! Adoption is common sense.

Henry Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 10:54 AM EST

I recently watched an episode of Friday Night Lights from the first season where Jason Street professes his surprising love for Clay Aiken ("What Clay and I have is special. America loves him and so do I.") to Lyla and while it's done in a more joking manner, it gains a lot of subtext in light of this recent revelation! Haha!

Michael H. Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 10:48 AM EST

Before all the haters start anything on me - apologies for accidentally posting same message twice - and also for leaving the 's' off 'announcement'.

Michael H. Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 10:46 AM EST

To gayKev - gay people need to come out because we still live in a very homophobic society. Visibility helps to reduce homophobia. Someone like Clay Aiken - who was raised in a strict southern fundamentalist religious background - with a fan base that mirrors that upbringing - he can help change hearts and minds by coming out.

The more people that come out, the closer we get to such announcement becoming "mundane" as Slezak wishes.

Michael H. Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 10:46 AM EST

To gayKev - gay people need to come out because we still live in a very homophobic society. Visibility helps to reduce homophobia. Someone like Clay Aiken - who was raised in a strict southern fundamentalist religious background - with a fan base that mirrors that upbringing - he can help change hearts and minds by coming out.

The more people that come out, the closer we get to such announcement becoming "mundane" as Slezak wishes.

BMA Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 10:39 AM EST

Maybe it's time for another Aiken-makeover. Now he can REALLY be himself.

Snarf Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 10:19 AM EST

Excellent point Slezak, as usual. People who think it's easy for Muscicans in the spotlight to live openly might want to read "Rockstarlet" a fictional account of what it's like to be burning up the charts and gay.

Donald - CT Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 09:53 AM EST

Sorry - I too think he's brave for finally coming to terms with it - but the spread - the cover story - the interview on GMA...is WAY over the top. As a gay man myself I know coming to terms with it is stressful and painful...I’m just disappointed in the fact he thinks this will send a shock wave through out the country...mean while DJ Adam and Travis barker were in a plane accident and are the only two survivors and they only get a side bar on People mag...Ridiculous!!!

Donald - CT Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 09:45 AM EST

I totally agree with Michael about Clay's coming out. He and his PR people are making this a bigger deal than it is. Ellen came out about 11 years ago...things were different...TR was outed...and didn't have this much of a deal made...NPH came out in a short to the point statement which caused no stir...the world has changed and the people that come out really make the calls. TR and NPH are the true stars of coming out...make your point and get over it...don't create a media tour about your "personal life" its a slap in the face to the rest of us...now the Gayken fans will run out buy his albums to show their support mean while Clay will be twisting his evil mustache laughing the cruel child scaring laugh after yelling dance puppets dance.

Greg Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 09:35 AM EST

To WRHSafe, MORE of America is gay then you think. Maybe not the majority, but 10% is still a lot of gay people in this country not to mention the WORLD. Also, I'm not going to "burn in hell" because I'm gay but you will for being "so hateful" towards gays. I have a friend who is trying to "come out" but with all this "nonsense talk" about "evil gays" it drives him right back in the closet. This hurts me since I've been having a "relationship" with him but he goes back to women because of this friggin society. It's hard enough to deal with this world, so why make it harder on us just because we are gay. By the way, Ryan Seacrest is gay because I know his "gay" hairdresser Dean Banowitz who is actually from my hometown. Gays are here to stay no matter what you think, so those of you that are ready please "come out of the closet". Life will be so much easier once you do...

WOWsers! Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 09:24 AM EST

Who cares about whether or not he's gay. The real question is why hasn't his plastic surgeon had their medical license taken away ... Worst extreme makover EVER!

Kent Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 09:16 AM EST

gay or not, I will never listen to a Clay Aiken album with open ears. That's just crazy.

BklynGirl Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 09:09 AM EST

It's about fricken time he admitted this! Most people are not surprised, maybe a handful of Claymates that insisted for years that he was straight (heh). I'm glad he has lifted this self-imposed burden from his shoulders. Honestly, refusing to admit it all these years (when everyone pretty much knew) sent the message that he was ashamed to be gay. I do understand this considering his strict Christian upbringing, but it wasn't really a secret! Sadly, it should nt matter that he is officially gay. Maybe one day it won't be headline news.

Now that it's out, people need to get a grip and let the man live his life. All you bible thumpers need to back off and leave him alone. Worry about your own issues and pastors who are REALLY hiding some ugly sins. If homosexuality is the big sin you insist it is, let that be between God and his gay children. Regardless of what you believe is in the bible, only God can and will decide the fate of each and every one of us.

Honey Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 08:57 AM EST

You rule Slezak! I'm no Clay Aiken fan but I'm glad he finally came out and will hopefully encourage others to do the same.

spmsmith Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 08:47 AM EST

Just as an aside: According to the Bible, whenever Jesus lambasted people in public the people he chose to speak against were those who thought they were purer and holier than everyone else, and who thought they were going to heaven instead of all the "sinners" out there who were "condemned by God" for not being as devout as themselves. However, all the people that were labeled "sinners" by this group were people Jesus ate and drank and talked with and showed in many ways that He loved them.

If Jesus were on earth now, I believe I know who he'd be chastizing in public... and it ain't the gays. It'd be those who smugly inform others that they "know" gay people are going to hell because God hates homosexuals (and they, apparently, are so pure and holy they can presume to speak for God).

Don't let these judgmental people fool you... they may call themselves Christians, but they do not have a Christian heart for God. They are too full of their own hubris to have room for love.

Dee Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 08:42 AM EST

I don't think there should be an announcement when someone is gay. He would have been going out with a guy then all those Claymates would have known since it was very obvious to everyone else. How could those people not know. They pretty much had this crush on this man who would never be with a woman. Claymates are the only ones devastated and it's just kind of weird.

michelle Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 08:33 AM EST

Manners people! Whatever happened to nice manners? At one time people spoke of their opinions without bashing anyone else. People spoke politely. No one got picked on for their beliefs or their private lives. No one slandered anyone else. Discussion was an art, not a shouting match. Debate was healthy and produced solutions to problems. It's too bad today's society is so ready to label someone for being different and so unwilling to accept anything outside their own little world. Politeness gets you way farther in life than angry actions and words.

Nancy Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 08:25 AM EST

I'm happy for him. The burden of carrying a secret showed on him the last few years. These message boards are very disappointing. As a Christian who has actually read the Bible, I believe Clay when he says he's still a Christian and is comfortable with his salvation. I swear, people are unbelievable. Please turn those fingers around and point them back in your own faces, get really loud and publicly flay yourselves every time you tell a lie, covet someone else's property, disrespect your parents, take God's name in vain, etc., etc. Give me a break.

UhHuh77 Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 08:02 AM EST

"I hope Clay can change if not may he burn in hell with the rest of the homosexuals. Not hate just a fact from GOD!!"

Okay, sir. Have you TALKED to God recently? To me, ignorance is the worst sin of all. You don't know what God really thinks, so spare us all your stupidity, please.

Jeffrey Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 08:01 AM EST

Hey ignorant "Christians" on here, hate is not a Christian value. Read your New Testament again and stop whipping out Old Testament laws (which Jesus says he came to supersede) to suit your prejudices. If you really believe in God, then you believe that he created mankind. If homosexuality is something you're born with, God created it. If you believe it's chosen, he gave gay people free will, so it came to exist through Him anyway. If you think Satan leads people to homosexuality, you are nuts. There is no such thing as Satan, just evil humans, such as yourselves. Spend some time in serious reflection and ask yourselves, would God approve of your hate? Who would he take first, a hypocrite who claims to preach love filled with bile, like yourselves, or a decent gay person treating his/her partner well and living a loving life? Yes, I know, you think it's the former. Good luck with that. And ask yourselves too: how is Clay Aiken or any gay person hurting you? Your family? Your marriage?

Adam Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 07:15 AM EST

"Liberals are trying to desensatize the puplic to get them to slowly accept the wrong way to live." Learn to spell, and this is 2008, not 1948. This is not about a Liberal agenda, it's about people living their authentic life.

Jae Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 07:09 AM EST

Hi michael! I miss you from the Season Seven Idol stuff. But anyway, I did know you were gay. Not that it matters since I don't really know you. :) You are still awesome. The gayness doesn't matter. And I think it doesn't matter with Clay either. You are either a Clay person or not. I liked him on Idol but not post idol. Not my sound. Everyone knew Clay was gay anyway. The way he had his baby just confirmed it if you had any doubts left. But still, it is great that he finally just admitted it.

gayKev Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 07:03 AM EST

Why oh why do gay people have to "come out"? Why can't gay people just live their lives the way they want to and people just observe and "know" they are gay. "Oh look, he's making lovey-dovey eyes with that other man in this here romantic restaurant. Nobody needs to hit me over the head -- I know what's what!" Straight people don't "come out". They just live their lives as a straight person and it is just known and accepted. Celebrity or not, when is it going to be okay to just do what you want in the public eye without having to explain yourself first? I'm not talking doing lewd or immoral things, just natural romantic and normal everyday "love" things (holding hands, a chaste kiss, etc.)

Brian Huntsbarger Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 06:29 AM EST

Oh im soooo suprised!

Jeff Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 06:27 AM EST

Gotta love living in a "free" country with "freedom of speech" and "freedom of expression" where people who are homosexual do NOT have the same equal rights as people who are heterosexual. OJ Simpson can get married and behead his wife in anger, but we can't even publicly acknowledge our sexuality? Come on people... he's gay, not a mass murderer. I just don't understand all the hate.

WRHSafe Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 06:18 AM EST

Who cares other than you money hunger folks, if you haven't noticed MOST of America is NOT gay so stop pushing this junk on us. I hope Clay can change if not may he burn in hell with the rest of the homosexuals. Not hate just a fact from GOD!!

andie Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 03:27 AM EST

You folks have absolutely no class whatsoever but I always knew that. Your treatment of Clay has always been really shabby. Fortunately for him,most of his fans love him, could care less that he is gay but we are glad he came out when he was ready and not before. It's a VERY personal decision and no, he shouldn't have done it for anyone but himself and his child. To suggest anyone should come out before they are ready to help a cause is just foolish.

Vance Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 01:37 AM EST

Thanks, Slezak.
The old people on this board are hung up on the whole Gay Thang. They don't like Clay and never listened to his music in the first place. The man has real talent, though I was never a big fan. What me mock this great talent is when rich delusional narcissists like him purchase a human life from a laboratory via a Turkey Baster. Too many kids that are already here, needing a good home, for Clay and Jaymes to do such a selfish and immature act of snobbery. In Vitro is just WRONG. Next stop, human cloning for the Rich & Famous. Adoption is common sense.

Ellipsian Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 01:33 AM EST

Nice try, Marcus: that's not what Slezak said, nor alluded to. In fact, the following sentence specified that perhaps Clay's honesty would improve his artistry, which DID allude to Slezak being more interested because of said honesty. Someone (you) is a bit too eager to point fingers and make a political statement.

Marcus Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 01:13 AM EST

So Slezak, you're a gay man who never listened to Aiken with open ears before, but now you will because he's gay?

That's like a woman voting for McCain because Sarah Palin is his V.P. Dumb, dumb, dumb.

Jasper Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 12:43 AM EST

Yawn. If Clay wants to make me excited he should announce that he's exiling himself to Siberia. I heart Slezak though=)

d$ Thu, Sep 25, 2008 at 12:27 AM EST

you said you wished this announcement was not brave, just mundane. I think this might be closer than you think, cause really, i dont care. neither does anyone else i know.

Keith Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:59 PM EST

who's next Ryan Seacrest?
Archuleta?
Michael Slezak?
oh wait...

good for you Clay!

Phil Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:42 PM EST

a liar, not alir, sorry

Phil Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:41 PM EST

Chewy are you a moron? NO, you're just an annoying Claymate! (Same difference!!) The point of my post was time & time again in the past I said Clay was alir, by claiming he wasn't gay, even after the photos of him surfaced, IF you go back & read the archived posts, you'll clearly see I never attack his voice, I always attacked his character. he is a BIG FAT LIAR. And if you fans wanna stick by him, you're MORE than entitled to, but when i was trying to tell the truth a few months back, I got heckled & attacked, kinda like you're trying to now. I think tis funny. you're feeble minded and don't even realize it. That, in & of itself is priceless!

Martin Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:31 PM EST

I wish People magazine would quit with the freaking YES I'M GAY covers. Guaranteed that when that issue is published, the same comments are raised, ranging from "Good for you!" to "Stop throwing your %$#@! in my face!" But we get worked up every time.

I cringe reading some of these postings because it's the same type of responses from the Time Magazine Ellen DeGeneres cover story. That was over a decade ago. Are we ever going to advance the conversation, to the point where it is a topic in which opinion (positive or negative) has no relevance?

Now who else can get in a tither over?

kali Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:24 PM EST

I'm in shock. But there's hope. At least Ryan Seacrest is not gay.

tom Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:23 PM EST

i hear that when he's on spamalot, box office improves so he's coming back. it's just too bad that it's anyone's business and i think the speculation has caused him to lose fans, plus that hair.

patty Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:14 PM EST

Good lord, if you can't find emotional honesty in "Lover All Alone," "The Real Me," "As Long As We're Here," "Where I Draw The Line," etc., then you must be deaf.

chewy Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:05 PM EST

Yes, Phil, cause it's all about you, isn't it? Sorry to disappoint you, but the fansites are full of nothing but support & love for Clay right now. We ain't goin' nowhere! Your feeble mind just couldn't accept that it has always been Clay's right to self-identify & not yours to do it for him.

letclaybeclay Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 11:01 PM EST

My god, the arrogance of some of the people here who think they know better than Clay what is best for him & his child! I guarantee you that baby will be more loved & well-cared for than any spaun of you pathetic homophobes. Clay is an intelligent, mature & classy guy & in doing this, he is thinking more of his child's welfare than his own. Brave, indeed, Sir Robin. As for Sleeeezak, there is all kinds of emotional honesty in Clay's latest album ON MY WAY HERE... you just couldn't hear it past your own personal biases (& those are legion & clearly shown in your snide article). No wonder Clay didn't want to ally with you - the gay media has been from Day One the most hateful, hypocrites toward him of anyone. Perhaps if radio would play one of the many radio-friendly songs on his new album, it would be selling better. How many "Breakaway"s do you think Kelly Clarkson would have sold with NO VIDEOS, NO AIRPLAY PROMOTION & NO RETAIL PLACEMENT? Time to change labels, Clay!

Tom Strong Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:51 PM EST

Gayken

eee Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:51 PM EST

What a messed up world we live in.

In the eyes of most of these commenters, a soldier is a hero when he kills a man, but a despicable creep when he loves one.

What gives?

Rob P. Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:48 PM EST

While not a fan, and as someone who more or less figured out "Clay's huge revellation" about 2 minutes into his first appearance on American Idol ( it just seemed obvious, not really sure why ) - I'd like to congratulate Mr.Aiken for coming out and proudly announcing who he is. The pain of hiding who you are - and who you love - must be equally painful as well as shameful, so I'm relieved for him.

And for anyone that says that gays have a choice in what they are, who they prefer - think about this .. why would anyone go out of their way and make a choice that would make people hate them for no other reason than being who they were?

Rob P. Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:48 PM EST

While not a fan, and as someone who more or less figured out "Clay's huge revellation" about 2 minutes into his first appearance on American Idol ( it just seemed obvious, not really sure why ) - I'd like to congratulate Mr.Aiken for coming out and proudly announcing who he is. The pain of hiding who you are - and who you love - must be equally painful as well as shameful, so I'm relieved for him.

And for anyone that says that gays have a choice in what they are, who they prefer - think about this .. why would anyone go out of their way and make a choice that would make people hate them for no other reason than being who they were?

Phil Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:45 PM EST

I truly feel vindicated after all those posts when I'd have to fight off crazy Claymates on the PopWatch message boards the past few years whenever I dared mention Clay was truly gay. His announcement made my day. To all those "fans" that used to attack me for speaking the truth, I hope you all enjoy a Thanksgiving sized feast of CROW!I always said, what would y'all do when the truth was revealed? I guess now we'll see.

Phil Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:36 PM EST

http://www.q102.com/pages/phil_spills.html

Dustin Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:24 PM EST

My wife and I saw Clay last Friday in Spamalot on Broadway. We had no idea he was in it, as we're not big fans by any means, but a big part of the crowd was definitely there to see him as the screams clearly indicated every time he made an appearance. He was quite funny and he reminded me of Martin Short.

KG Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:19 PM EST

i so called it 5 years ago. my sister-in-law better pay up, with interest.

WFD Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:08 PM EST

To Clay Aiken, best of wishes on your fatherhood. It's about honesty, integrity, being supportive, demonstrating the best of examples, consistent guidance without self indulgences as an influence. Be open to your child's creativity and direction and help him excel at it while showing your best effort, love and respect. When it gets rough (and it will at times), maintain and display a positive spirit. You'll do just fine! Should being gay matter? That's not the point. It's about the child being his own individual, and what values are instilled to help him achieve it. If a gay father is supportive when his son notices girls, for example, then nature is well served. We should bridge some trust that this father will support what nature decides, as any father should do regardless of orientation. I believe that's the real issue some have trouble with. It's about trusting a gay father. Trust is best served bridged with equality.

Bruce Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 10:05 PM EST

Some of you just show how stupid you are. Na yes, stupid is the correct word. We are everywhere . . . and we always have been. Get over it.

Sussie Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:56 PM EST

"Straight people come out all the time on magazine covers . . . when they get engaged and their wedding pictures - if those aren't public declarations, I'm not sure what is. "

That's not really the same, Clay isn't on the cover announcing a wedding with photos of he and his groom. He is on the cover to announce "I'm gay". You never see a straight person on the cover of a magazine saying "I'm straight" with no reason behind it, just to declare. I do believe Ellen had a cover just to announce she was gay and then I think she had covers of her wedding so they are two seperate things indeed. You'll never see a straight person get a cover to announce "I'm straight". LOL!!!!!

Dave Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:33 PM EST

I knew he was a pole smoker. I don't want to hear any more about him. Liberals are trying to desensatize the puplic to get them to slowly accept the wrong way to live.

to Jack Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:32 PM EST

You don't "overcome" being gay. You're born that way. Grow up.

Sam Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:29 PM EST

No wonder he was hesitant to come out. Look at all of the hateful comments here. People hated him for not coming out and now they hate him because he did. People say they hate his music and you can bet on it that they never heard it. God I hate people sometimes. What the hell did he ever do to bring out such hatred for a nice guy with a ton of talent? I just don't get it.

a Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:28 PM EST

You people are so homophobic and ignorant, it's truly embarrassing.

LK Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:26 PM EST

That last comment was supposed to have quote marks, cause I was pointing out the irony of that guy complaining about attention to celebrities on EW. But never mind.

lk Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:24 PM EST

BD08

Why is admitting that you like to have sex with a man courageous and brave; and newsworthy if you're a celeb? Here's a newsflash... I got up and went to work this morning,. Where's my front-cover?

And you come to a gossip column on Entertainment Weekly to have this insight?

Veronica Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:16 PM EST

Actually the American Medical Association says that children raised by gay parents have good lives if they are raised properly.This is why most states let them adopt.

Brainiac Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:08 PM EST

If it wasn't obvious before, it definitely became obvious when he decided to conceive a child via artifical insemination with his friend. I guess what's surprising is that he's actually admitting it. I thought he'd leave it untold forever. Well, if it's liberating for him, so be it. He's a decent singer and a kind person, so who gives a damn?

BTW, there is so much ridiculous bull$hit misinformation about Iran being perpetuated here. Just had to get that out there.

jerryadair Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 09:02 PM EST

Hello everyone knew 3 years ago he was a fag

Tower Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 08:52 PM EST

And next week's cover -- Michael Jordan: Yes, I'm black.

MsDaisy Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 08:42 PM EST

I am not a Clay-mate, I never cared for him or his music. And, I have no problem with him being gay or fathering a child. I do have a problem with the media frenzy of having to expose every gay celebrity. Who cares?

John t Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 08:37 PM EST

Jack Its not hate at all, its a loving concern for a bad decision. We want was is best for him and his child

h.w. Wed, Sep 24, 2008 at 08:29 PM EST

Yea, just like a 50 year old man that is attracted to a 10 year old is " just being himself", do you have best wishes for him as well?