'You Have My Love And Support': Bachelor Nation Rallies Behind Colton Underwood After He Comes Out As Gay
After former Bachelor star Colton Underwood revealed he was gay on Wednesday, April 14, Bachelor Nation flooded social media to share their love and support for the 29-year-old.
During the Wednesday episode of Good Morning America, Underwood opened up about coming to terms with his sexuality and his past struggles with embracing who he truly is.
"I've ran from myself for a long time. I've hated myself for a long time, and I'm gay," the season 23 Bachelor emotionally told host Robin Roberts. "And I came to terms with that earlier this year and have been processing it," the reality star continued. "The next step in all of this was letting people know. I'm still nervous. It's been a journey, for sure."
While he has known the truth about himself for a while, Underwood admitted it was extremely hard to process, confessing that he previously would have rather "died than say I’m gay." Underwood also confessed that his "suicidal thoughts" were a huge "wake up call" for him to come out.
And now that he's shared his truth, the handsome hunk said: "I’m the happiest I’ve been in my life, and that’s been the world to me."
Following Underwood's intimate interview, Hannah Godwin — runner-up on Underwood's season — praised the reality star for his honesty and wished him the best.
"I support Colton for having the courage to finally be able to live his life authentically," Godwin told PEOPLE. "Nobody should have to hide who they really are. I'll always wish Colton the very best and hoping he has found his peace."
A rep for Tayshia Adams — she was another runner-up on Underwood's season and went on to take over as Bachelorette of season 16 — said: "Tayshia is very happy that Colton is able to now live his life openly and without fear of sharing who he is," Page Six reported.
Embattled host Chris Harrison also shared his support in a touching Instagram post. "Very proud of you today @coltonunderwood Happy to see you stand up and openly live your truth," he wrote alongside a photo of the two. "You have my love and support my friend."
Another contestant from his 2019 season, Onyeka Ehie, took to social media, tweeting: "Happy for @colton for speaking his truth. We support you."
"Just a reminder that homophobic comments will not accepted or tolerated today or any day," she added in a second tweet. "You've been warned."
Former contestant Nicole Lopez-Alvar wrote that she was "so proud" of Underwood via Twitter, as fellow contestant Catherine Agro shared a similar statement to her Instagram Story.
- 'I'm Gay': Colton Underwood Comes Out, Reveals He Had Suicidal Thoughts
- 'RHONY' Alum Carole Radziwill Slams Colton Underwood For Appearing On 'The Bachelor' After Coming Out As Gay, Says Show Should 'Be Vetting' Contestants Better
- Colton Underwood's Estranged Ex Cassie Randolph Blindsided By His Coming Out, She Is 'Processing' The News: Source
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In addition, Demi Burnett — who came out as queer after her time on Underwood's season — supportively tweeted: "Welcome to the community brother."
The Bachelor Franchise also backed Underwood with a statement. "We are so inspired by Colton Underwood's courage to embrace and pursue his authentic self," the statement read, according to PEOPLE. "As firm believers in the power of love, we celebrate Colton's journey in the LGBTQIA+ community every step of the way."
The love and support didn't end there. Outside of the Franchise, multiple celebs spoke out about Underwood's revelation. "I'm happy for @colton. If you're gay, be gay! I've been gay forever & I love it!" Billy Eichner tweeted.
The comedian's post comes after an old video resurfaced of Eichner suggesting Underwood could be the first "first gay Bachelor and we don't even know." The comment left Underwood visibly uncomfortable.
"You're free now, @colton A toaster is on its way," Andy Cohen wrote on Twitter, as Schitt's Creek star Dan Levy discussed the difficulties with coming out while praising Underwood.
"'Coming out' can be a terrifying, uncomfortable, and traumatizing experience because we still live in a world where we are made to fear the consequences of living freely," Levy wrote via Twitter. "Let that sink in. So happy for @colton Underwood. His courage will undoubtably save lives today."
"Sending @colton love, light, support and deep respect. It is real bravery to live your truth in this world. Thank you for being so open and courageous with your journey," The View cohost Meghan McCain tweeted, as Loni Love added: "All the best to you @colton .. life gets better standing in your truth!!!"
