Disney Star Alyson Stoner Tells All On Falling ‘In Love With A Woman’
March 31 2018, Published 4:44 p.m. ET
Former Disney Channel star Alyson Stoner opened up about her sexuality in an emotional essay for Teen Vogue. The Camp Rock actress, who also gained fame as a backup dancer for Missy Elliott, revealed that she found love in the most unexpected of places: in a dance class with her female instructor.
"There she was, wearing loose jeans and a backward snapback," Alyson wrote. "She flipped and rolled her body around with adventure and total abandon. As a Type A perfectionist, I was mesmerized and intimidated."
When the instructor walked over to Alyson to correct her form, Alyson said her heart “raced wildly and my body grew hot…Her smile was the most electrifying I had ever seen.”
The two kept in touch, and eventually, their relationship progressed. "She and I continued to hang out and began sending good morning texts. Then we made dinner and watched Orange Is the New Black. Then we vented and supported each other. Then cuddled. Then kissed and kissed some more. OK, we were in a relationship. I fell in love with a woman,” Alyson wrote.
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However, Alyson struggled to accept her new feelings, and turned to therapy and prayer to fight them. She also worried about her career. “Some people in the industry warned me that I’d ruin my career, miss out on possible jobs, and potentially put my life in danger if I ever came out. My dream and all I’d worked tirelessly for since the age of 6 was suddenly at risk by my being...true to myself.”
After years of fighting it, Alyson finally accepted the way she felt and opted to share her story with others. “I, Alyson, am attracted to men, women, and people who identify in other ways. I can love people of every gender identity and expression. It is the soul that captivates me. It is the love we can build and the goodness we can contribute to the world by supporting each other’s best journeys,” she finished.
What do you think of Alyson’s essay? Sound off in the comments below.