Lil Nas X responds to trolls after coming out as gay
American rapper Lil Nas X has defended himself against a wave of online trolls who weren’t happy to hear he’s come out as gay.
The 20-year-old star announced his sexuality on June 30, the final day of Pride month.
Lil Nas X wrote subtly on Twitter: “Some of y’all already know, some of y’all don’t care, some of y’all not gone fwm no more. But before this month ends I want y’all to listen closely to c7osure,” referring to his album cover, which features a building lit up with a rainbow.
He later confirmed he was LGBT+, tweeting: “Deadass thought I made it obvious.”
Although the vast majority of responses were positive, there were inevitably some homophobic tweets.
@Chrissyxmessina wrote: “Knew we’d all have to hate you soon enough.” @Monstergammer said, “Drop don’t want it,” and @HKiing93 tweeted: “Never liked your music anyway…”
Some, like @phenominal77, said they wouldn’t listen to his music again.
That’s it I’m not ever listening to @LilNasX cos I don’t wanna turn gay but damn I feel so disappointed why would he do that cos it’s even written in the Bible not to live you fellow man it’s a sin damn I’m done with lil bad x the chapter ends here BYE!!
— goat (@phenominal77) July 2, 2019
The trolling continued on Instagram, but Lil Nas X responded hilariously.
But unfortunately on Tuesday (July 2) the comments appeared to be getting to him. In response to people saying they would no longer be streaming his music, Lil Nas X tweeted: “That shit is not OK.”
just got news that i’m gay and i will no longer be streaming my music. i’m sorry that shit is just not ok.
— nope (@LilNasX) July 2, 2019
He added on Instagram:
Celebrities and public figures leapt to his defence, including presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg who tweeted: “As a fan, I’m thrilled and inspired to see him standing in his truth as a member of the LGBTQ community. Welcome to the family!”
British singer and songwriter MNEK said: “We also stan an openly gay black kid going diamond with his first single. The culture loves it. Truly.”
Pose star Dominique Jackson wrote: “Love you. I admire your strength! Much love to you my talented brother!”
And TV writer Ira Madison III tweeted: “We will protect Lil Nas X at all costs.”
Meanwhile, Lil Nas X’s song “Old Town Road” just spent its 13th week at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, making history in the process.