X Factor star Joe McElderry reveals he is gay

Aug 1 2010 by Coreena Ford, Sunday Sun

FANS and celebrities have sent messages of support to Geordie star Joe McElderry after he revealed he is gay.

The X Factor winner – who scored a number no 1 with his single The Climb, was targeted by hackers who broke into his Twitter account and “outed” him for a joke.

However, the South Shields-born singer said the experience made him realise his true feelings.

Hours before national newspapers ran interviews with the 19-year-old, he put a message on his official website, telling his fans that he would be appearing in several articles.

The message said: “I wanted you to know that the articles are true. I also wanted you to know that I really respect your loyal support and all the kind messages I have had from you up to this date.

“I have always been a very honest person and so it is important for me to continue to be honest. It has been the most amazing year so far and I feel so privileged. It’s also been a time of real self realisation and I feel as if I have grown up so much in these few months.

“There has been speculation about my sexuality in the past and I have always been honest at the time I have been asked.

Over the past few weeks I have really had time to reflect and to realise who I am. I spoke to my friends and family about this in the last few days and it was important to do the same for you all as you have been so supportive.

“I made the choice to speak openly about this.”