I’ve been a Clay Aiken fan ever since American Idol season 2 in 2003. In fact, it was because of Clay that I started watching AI. I have all of his cd’s, gigabytes of videos that I’ve downloaded, and seen him in concert 3 times.
I can honestly say he has touched my heart. Not just his music, but the man himself. Not only does he have the voice of an angel, he’s a teacher, born again Christian, loves children, founded the Bubel Aiken Foundation which supports children with disabilities, and an ambassador for Unicef. He’s intelligent, witty, funny and snarky at times. He’s never understood why he was considered a sex symbol to some. He’s the real deal.
There have been rumors over the past few years that he is gay. I read the stories, but chose not to believe them. Clay had stated that he was not gay, and that was good enough for me.
I heard rumors earlier this year that Clay was going to become a dad, but not through the usual way. Again I read the stories, but dismissed the rumors since I had not heard any confirmation from Clay.
Clay became a dad in August. His best friend, Jaymes Foster, became pregnant through in vitro fertilization. They are parents of a beautiful little boy named Parker Foster Aiken. James says Clay is “An Incredible Caregiver.”
This past week I read an article in People magazine where Clay admitted that he was gay. Clay had said years ago that he was not gay, and in recent years refused to discuss his sexuality with the media. Here’s the link to the story, “I’m a Gay Dad.” I even thought about getting rid of my memorabilia, but then realized I would only be hurting myself because I truly love his music.
While I admit I don’t understand whether being gay is in the genes or a choice, I don’t have the right to judge him or any other person. Gay or not, he is still the same person he was when I first became enamored with him. His personal life and sexuality are no one else’s business but his own. I will proudly remain a fan despite what others may say.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
What a lovely blog . I like the way you think .
Clay’s blog to his fans is included in the latest post at this blog and I think his words help us all to understand what a difficult and sometimes lengthy process this is in today’s society .
http://conclayve.blogspot.com/ Check it out .
I proudly remain a fan also .
Shae, thank you for this well written article. Clay is the same Clay as he always was, perhaps some people don’t understand or agree, but as far as I am concerned, he still is the same kind, considerate, understanding and caring man that we embraced and who embraced us with open arms. When I went to pick up my copy of People, I proudly wore a Clay T-shirt. Yes, Clay is gay and I don’t care, never did, never will. He is still one of the classiest guys around and I have never been more proud to call myself a forever fan.
You are very wise. He is still Clay. Hopefully he can live a happy life now!
Connie, thank you so much for your comment and the link. I had searched for it and couldn’t find it. Reading his own words only re-enforced my feelings for the man.
Carole, thank you for your comment. But I have to disagree somewhat that he is still the same Clay. Yes “he still is the same kind, considerate, understanding and caring man that we embraced and who embraced us with open arms.” But he is so much more. He has faced this head on, and by doing so has show his inner strength and courage.
Cassie, thank you for your post. My only hope now is that the press and media will not make such a big issue of his personal life. I think we all have aspects of our lives that we don’t feel the need to share with the world. I know the man and his music have touched my heart and soul. I pray he has a full and happy life, both personally and professionally.