Key Takeaways

• Pansexuality means attraction to people regardless of their gender identity, encompassing romantic, emotional, and physical attraction to all human beings
• Notable pansexual celebrities include Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Janelle Monáe, Bella Thorne, and Wayne Brady, who have publicly shared their identities and increased mainstream visibility
• Many celebrities initially identified as bisexual before learning about and connecting with the term pansexual, showing how sexual orientation can evolve with self-discovery
• These public figures provide crucial representation and role models for pansexual individuals, especially young queer people exploring their own identity
• Celebrity representation helps normalize pansexuality in mainstream media and reduces harmful stereotypes about the LGBTQ+ community

The entertainment industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years, with numerous high-profile celebrities openly sharing their pansexual identities. When Miley Cyrus first came out as pansexual in 2015, it marked a pivotal moment for queer representation in mainstream media. Since then, a growing number of stars have followed suit, using their platforms to educate audiences about what it means to identify as pansexual.

This visibility matters tremendously for the millions of people who feel attracted to others regardless of gender identity. Pansexual celebrities serve as powerful role models, showing that successful, talented individuals across every corner of the entertainment world embrace this sexual orientation. From chart-topping musicians to award-winning actors, these stars demonstrate that pansexuality is just one beautiful aspect of human diversity.

Understanding Pansexuality

Before diving into the celebrity voices championing pansexual visibility, it’s essential to understand what this sexual orientation actually means. Pansexuality refers to romantic, emotional, and physical attraction to people regardless of their gender identity or biological sex. The word pansexual speaks to a form of attraction that transcends traditional gender categories, focusing instead on the whole person. Many pansexual people describe how they fall in love with someone based on who they are, not their gender.

Many people wonder about the difference between pansexuality and bisexuality. While bisexuality typically involves attraction to multiple genders, pansexuality specifically encompasses attraction to all gender identities, including non-binary, genderfluid, and transgender individuals. Some pansexual people describe their attraction as being to “just people” rather than specific genders. For them, if a person is great, that’s what matters most, regardless of gender.

This distinction isn’t about creating a hierarchy of sexual orientations – both bisexual and pansexual identities are equally valid. Rather, it’s about individuals finding the terminology that best describes their personal experience of attraction. As one celebrity put it, “literally you like personality” over gender considerations when forming romantic connections.

The growing awareness of pansexuality has helped many people better understand their own sexuality. For those who feel physically attracted to human beings across the gender spectrum, discovering the term “pansexual” often provides a sense of clarity and community they may have been seeking their whole life. Learning new terminology can also help people understand sex and their own sexual identity more deeply.

When people find terminology that fits, it can be a powerful moment of self-recognition. Sometimes, it’s a realization like, “oh these are things that actually describe me.” It’s common to reflect and think, “these are things that I identify with,” as they connect with new labels.

Major Celebrity Voices in Pansexual Representation

Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus stands as one of the most prominent pansexual celebrities in modern entertainment. She came out as pansexual in 2015 during an interview with Paper magazine, sharing how meeting a first gender neutral person at an LGBTQ center opened her eyes to her own sexuality. At the center, she started hearing stories from others about diverse gender identities and sexualities, which helped her understand her own identity. Cyrus described the experience as revelatory, explaining how this encounter helped her understand that her attraction wasn’t limited by traditional gender categories.

The pop star has been remarkably open about her journey of self-discovery, frequently discussing how she feels neutral in both gender identity and sexuality. She has explained that sometimes she doesn’t feel gay or feel straight, but instead feels somewhere in between or outside those labels. In interviews, Miley has clarified that, technically, she doesn’t fit traditional labels of sexuality or gender. In various interviews, she’s emphasized that her attraction is based on the person’s spirit rather than their gender presentation. “I’m attracted to the person,” she’s stated, explaining that age-appropriate consent matters more than whether someone is “a girl or a guy.”

Cyrus’s massive social media following and cultural influence have made her pansexual identity incredibly visible to mainstream audiences. Her openness has sparked countless conversations about sexual fluidity and helped normalize pansexuality for millions of fans worldwide.

Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato publicly identified as pansexual during a 2021 interview on the Joe Rogan podcast, marking another significant moment for pansexual representation. Lovato, who also identifies as non-binary and uses both she/her and they/them pronouns, described their sexuality as fluid and evolving over time. In the interview, Lovato clarified, “technically I would say my identity is pansexual,” emphasizing their considered self-assessment.

During the interview, Lovato explained how their understanding of their own queerness developed gradually. They jokingly referred to the LGBTQIA+ community as the “alphabet mafia,” showing how humor can help make these conversations more accessible. Lovato’s candidness about their journey resonated with many fans who were also questioning their own identity.

Their visibility as both a pansexual and non-binary person highlights the intersection between gender identity and sexual orientation. Lovato’s story demonstrates how individuals can discover new aspects of their identity throughout their life, challenging the idea that sexuality must be fixed or unchanging.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe came out as pansexual in a groundbreaking 2018 Rolling Stone interview, initially sharing that they identified as bisexual before connecting more deeply with pansexuality. The artist explained how they previously identified as bisexual but found that pansexuality better described their experience of attraction.

Monáe identifies as both pansexual and non-binary, using she/her and they/them pronouns. In interviews, they’ve emphasized being open to learning more about their identity and how language around sexuality continues to evolve. “I want to feel as though I can love anybody on this planet,” Monáe has stated, beautifully articulating the inclusive nature of pansexual attraction.

Their music and public persona often explore themes of identity and inclusivity, making them a powerful voice for queer representation. Monáe’s artistic work frequently challenges binary thinking about gender and sexuality, reflecting their personal journey of self-discovery. In addition to their music, Monáe has contributed to diverse and impactful stories in cinema, notably starring in ‘Hidden Figures,’ which further highlights the breadth of their career and influence.

Wayne Brady

Wayne Brady publicly came out as pansexual in 2023, bringing significant visibility to the identity among older generations and within mainstream television. The comedian and game show host described pansexuality as “bisexuality with an open mind,” offering a relatable explanation for audiences unfamiliar with the term.

Brady shared his identity first with his ex-wife and blended family, emphasizing the importance of honesty in relationships. His approach to coming out demonstrated how individuals can maintain loving family connections while being authentic about their sexuality. “I love people equally,” Brady explained, “including myself.” He clarified that his attraction is not limited to just men, but includes people of all genders.

His visibility as a pansexual celebrity helps demonstrate that this sexual orientation exists across all age groups and backgrounds. Brady’s mainstream appeal has introduced the concept of pansexuality to audiences who might not otherwise encounter diverse sexual orientations.

Entertainment Industry Pansexual Icons

Bella Thorne

Bella Thorne transitioned from identifying as bisexual to pansexual in 2019, appearing on Good Morning America to discuss her evolving understanding of her sexuality. Her journey illustrates how sexual identity can be fluid and how individuals may find more accurate labels as they learn about themselves.

During her television appearance, Thorne emphasized that her attraction is based on personality rather than gender. “You like people for their heart, their soul,” she explained, highlighting the emotional connection that often characterizes pansexual attraction. Thorne values finding the correct vocabulary to understand herself, showing how language can be empowering.

Her willingness to discuss her identity publicly has helped normalize conversations about sexual fluidity, particularly among younger audiences who follow her on social media platforms.

JoJo Siwa

JoJo Siwa revealed her LGBTQIA+ identity in 2021, later specifying that she identifies as pansexual. The former Dance Moms star and YouTube personality became famous for her quote “my human is my human” when describing her approach to attraction and relationships.

Siwa made history by participating in the first same-sex dancing partnership on Dancing with the Stars, bringing pansexual visibility to mainstream television. Her positive representation has been particularly important for younger audiences who grew up watching her content.

As someone who built her career appealing to children and families, Siwa’s openness about her pansexual identity helps normalize diverse sexual orientations for the next generation. Her influence extends beyond entertainment into broader cultural conversations about acceptance and authenticity.

Brendon Urie (Panic at the Disco)

Brendon Urie came out as pansexual in a Paper magazine interview, explaining that while he’s married to a woman, he experiences attraction to people of all genders. His openness about being in a heterosexual-appearing marriage while identifying as pansexual helps challenge misconceptions about the orientation.

Urie emphasizes being attracted to people with good hearts regardless of their gender identity. “I guess if I had to classify myself, I’d say I’m pansexual,” he shared, demonstrating how individuals can be uncertain about labels while still embracing their identity.

His incorporation of queer themes into Panic at the Disco’s music and public persona has made him an important voice for LGBTQ+ representation in rock music. Urie’s visibility helps show that pansexuality exists across all musical genres and relationship configurations.

Actors and Performers Breaking Barriers

Asia Kate Dillon

Asia Kate Dillon stands as a groundbreaking non-binary actor using they/them pronouns who identifies as pansexual. They became the first gender neutral person to play a main character on U.S. television with their role in “Billions,” bringing unprecedented representation to mainstream media.

In a Huffington Post interview, Dillon described their attraction as “human being attracted to other human beings,” beautifully articulating how pansexuality transcends gender categories. Their visibility has been crucial for demonstrating the intersection between gender identity and sexual orientation.

Dillon’s work in television has opened doors for other non-binary actors and has helped audiences understand that gender and sexuality exist on spectrums rather than in rigid categories. Their advocacy extends beyond their acting career into education and awareness.

Cara Delevingne

Cara Delevingne identified as pansexual in a 2020 Variety interview, sharing her famous statement about falling in love with the person rather than their gender. The model and actor uses fluid pronouns and embraces gender flexibility in both her personal life and public persona.

Her interview followed her split from long-term partner Ashley Benson, and she spoke candidly about how her understanding of her sexuality had evolved. Delevingne’s high-profile relationships and modeling career have brought significant visibility to pansexual identity in fashion and entertainment.

Her openness about mental health alongside her sexual identity has helped normalize conversations about the intersection of wellbeing and authentic self-expression.

Madison Bailey

Madison Bailey came out as pansexual during an Instagram Live session around 2017, later gaining wider recognition for her role in Netflix’s “Outer Banks.” She publicly shared her relationship on social media in 2020, demonstrating authentic representation for young pansexual individuals.

Bailey advocates for authenticity and openness about LGBTQ+ identity, particularly among young people who may be struggling with self-acceptance. Her visibility on a popular Netflix series has brought pansexual representation to teenage audiences worldwide.

Her social media presence consistently promotes acceptance and understanding of diverse sexual orientations, making her an important voice for the next generation of queer individuals.

Music Artists and Creative Voices

Kesha

Kesha expressed pansexual views in a 2013 Seventeen magazine interview, describing how she loves people regardless of gender and focuses on their spirit and essence rather than their physical presentation. While she avoids strict labels, her approach aligns closely with pansexual principles.

The pop star emphasizes connection with a person’s consciousness over their gender identity, stating that she’s attracted to “what’s inside” rather than external characteristics. Her music often explores themes of freedom and self-expression that resonate with queer audiences.

Kesha’s approach demonstrates how some individuals prefer to avoid labels while still embracing inclusive attraction. Her influence in pop music has helped normalize conversations about sexual fluidity.

Rina Sawayama

Japanese-British pop artist Rina Sawayama transitioned from identifying as bisexual to pansexual, sharing her identity in a Vice magazine article. Her song “Cherry” addresses the challenges of navigating pansexuality within heterosexual-appearing relationships.

Sawayama advocates for increased queer representation in media, using her platform to educate audiences about diverse sexual orientations. Her music explicitly addresses LGBTQ+ themes and experiences, making her an important voice in contemporary pop.

Her cultural background brings additional diversity to pansexual representation, showing how sexual identity intersects with racial and cultural identities in complex ways.

Yungblud

British musician Yungblud uses he/they pronouns and identifies as pansexual, crediting ex-girlfriend Halsey for helping him understand his identity. His 2018 debut album achieved significant success while openly exploring themes of sexual and gender fluidity.

The artist believes that love transcends genitalia and gender identity, frequently speaking about these topics in interviews and through his music. His youth-oriented fanbase has made him an influential voice for Generation Z conversations about sexuality.

Yungblud’s punk-influenced aesthetic and outspoken advocacy have helped bring pansexual visibility to alternative music scenes and younger audiences questioning their own identity.

Additional Notable Pansexual Celebrities

Television and Social Media Personalities

Mae Whitman revealed her pansexual identity via tweet, specifically referencing representation in “The Owl House” Disney Channel series. Her visibility brings pansexual awareness to audiences familiar with her work in television and voice acting.

Bob the Drag Queen, winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race season 8, identifies as both pansexual and non-binary. Their platform within drag culture has helped educate audiences about the diversity of sexual and gender identities within the LGBTQ+ community.

Joe Lycett, a British comedian, shifted from identifying as bisexual to pansexual in 2015, demonstrating how public figures can evolve in their self-understanding. His comedy often incorporates themes of sexual identity and social acceptance.

Tess Holliday, a body positivity activist, prefers the pansexual label over bisexual, using her platform to advocate for both size acceptance and LGBTQ+ rights. Her intersectional advocacy demonstrates how different aspects of identity can intersect.

Musicians and Artists

Angel Haze, now known as Roes, is a rapper who focuses on deep emotional connections regardless of gender in both their music and personal relationships. Their raw, honest approach to discussing sexuality has resonated with fans seeking authentic representation.

Christine and the Queens (Héloïse Letissier) defines pansexuality as love beyond gender in BBC interviews, bringing French perspective to international conversations about sexual identity. Their artistic work consistently explores themes of gender and sexuality.

Courtney Act serves as both a drag performer and educator about pansexuality, using entertainment platforms to increase awareness and understanding. Their work bridges drag culture and mainstream LGBTQ+ education.

Kehlani clarified their pansexual identity on Twitter after fan speculation, demonstrating how social media can be used to communicate authentic identity. Their R&B music often explores themes of love and attraction across gender lines.

Impact of Celebrity Pansexual Representation

The visibility of pansexual celebrities has dramatically increased mainstream awareness and acceptance of this sexual orientation. When prominent figures like Miley Cyrus and Demi Lovato share their stories, it normalizes pansexuality for millions of people who may have never encountered the term before. Discussions about pansexuality, bisexuality, and gay identities all contribute to greater LGBTQ+ visibility and help broaden public understanding of the spectrum of sexual identities.

This representation provides crucial role models for young people questioning their sexual identity. Seeing successful, talented individuals openly embrace their pansexual identity helps combat feelings of isolation and shame that many queer people experience. The message becomes clear: you can be authentic about your sexuality and still achieve your dreams.

Celebrity coming out stories also help educate the public about the distinction between different sexual orientations. When stars explain that they’re attracted to people rather than specific genders, it helps audiences understand the nuanced nature of human sexuality. This education is particularly important for reducing harmful stereotypes and misconceptions.

The entertainment industry’s increasing representation of pansexual individuals reflects broader cultural shifts toward inclusivity. As more celebrities feel safe sharing their authentic identities, it creates a positive feedback loop that encourages even greater visibility and acceptance. The experience of one human who embodies multiple gender traits and identities can resonate with many, emphasizing the shared human experience across gender and sexual identities.

However, these public figures also face unique challenges. Coming out publicly can impact career opportunities, especially in industries that remain conservative about LGBTQ+ representation. Celebrities must navigate the pressure to represent their entire community while maintaining their individual authenticity.

The diverse backgrounds of pansexual celebrities – spanning music, television, film, comedy, and social media – demonstrates that this sexual orientation exists across all demographics and industries. This breadth of representation helps ensure that different audiences can find relatable role models.

For pansexual people, seeing themselves represented in media validates their experiences and identities. When Janelle Monáe discusses learning about pansexuality or when Wayne Brady talks about loving people equally, it provides language and frameworks that individuals can use to understand their own attraction patterns.

The impact extends beyond individual validation to broader social change. Celebrity representation helps shift cultural conversations about sexuality from binary thinking toward more nuanced understanding of human diversity. This evolution benefits not just pansexual individuals but the entire LGBTQ+ community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between pansexual and bisexual celebrities?

Pansexual celebrities describe attraction regardless of gender identity, focusing on the person rather than their gender presentation. Bisexual typically refers to attraction to multiple but not necessarily all genders. Many celebrities like Bella Thorne and Rina Sawayama initially identified as bisexual before learning about and connecting with pansexuality. Some celebrities use both terms interchangeably depending on the context, while others feel that one label fits their experience better than the other.

Why do some celebrities change their sexual orientation labels over time?

Sexual identity can be fluid and evolving as people learn more about themselves and discover new terminology that better describes their experiences. Many celebrities like Janelle Monáe initially used one label before finding another that felt more accurate. This evolution often reflects personal growth, increased education about different sexual orientations, and broader cultural conversations about identity. The availability of more specific language helps people find labels that truly represent their attraction patterns and experiences.

How do pansexual celebrities handle dating and relationships in the public eye?

Pansexual celebrities navigate relationships by focusing on individual connection and compatibility rather than gender identity. Some, like Brendon Urie, may be in relationships that appear heterosexual while maintaining their pansexual identity. Others, like JoJo Siwa, openly date across gender lines and use their visibility to normalize diverse relationships. The key principle remains that pansexuality doesn’t mean attraction to everyone, but rather that gender isn’t a limiting factor in forming romantic connections.

What challenges do pansexual celebrities face when coming out publicly?

Celebrity figures risk typecasting, limited career opportunities, and intense scrutiny from both mainstream media and LGBTQ+ communities. They must navigate misconceptions about pansexuality while feeling pressure to represent their entire community authentically. The entertainment industry, while increasingly inclusive, still presents challenges for openly LGBTQ+ performers in certain markets or genres. Additionally, celebrities face the ongoing challenge of maintaining privacy while being role models for visibility and acceptance.

How has pansexual representation in entertainment changed over recent years?

Representation has evolved from virtually no mainstream visibility to multiple high-profile celebrities openly identifying as pansexual across all entertainment sectors. Earlier generations of celebrities often avoided specific labels, while current stars like JoJo Siwa and Madison Bailey embrace their identities from early in their careers. The language around pansexuality has become more widely understood, making it safer for public figures to use specific terminology. This increased visibility has created positive momentum, encouraging even more celebrities to share their authentic identities and experiences.