Ricky Martins admits he is gay

[alan45]

Ricky Martin has said that he wants the world to know that he is gay.

The Latin popstar announced on his official blog today that he is "a fortunate homosexual man".

"I am very blessed to be who I am," he posted.

Martin's sexuality has been the topic of much speculation since his hit song 'Livin' la Vida Loca' hit the airwaves in 1999.

The 38-year-old's declaration was apparently sparked by his decision to write his memoirs.

"I decided to move on with my life not sharing with the world my entire truth. Allowing myself to be seduced by fear and insecurity became a self-fulfilling prophecy of sabotage," Martin wrote.

He continued: "Today I take full responsibility for my decisions and my actions."

Martin became the father of two boys, Valentino and Matteo, in 2008. The children were born to a surrogate mother.

[Siobhan]

we all knew that but I still love me a bit of Ricky :luv:

[Chloe O'brien]

Oh Ricky the world has known for years you were gay.

[tammyy2j]

Latin heartthrob Ricky Martin announced on his blog today that he is “a fortunate gay man,” which probably elicited two reactions: “duh!” and “double duh!”

Duh: Anyone who looks like Ricky is “fortunate.” And double duh: The announcement that he’s gay is about as shocking as when Sean Hayes came out on the cover of The Advocate last month. After all, Ricky has been living la vida “don’t ask, don’t tell” for a long time—sometimes there was a girlfriend; other times, Ricky was doing stretching exercises on a beach. With another guy. In a Speedo.

But let’s put the cynicism (and the “He Bangs” jokes) aside for a moment. Coming out — even in this post Ellen/Rosie/Lance Bass/Neil Patrick Harris age — takes courage, especially when you’re a public figure. You immediately become a spokesperson, whether you like it or not (and for that matter, whether the gay community wants you to be or not.) In fact, the entire gay movement can apparently rest on your shoulders: “[Ricky Martin's] decision to model this kind of openness and honesty can lead to a greater acceptance for countless gay people in the U.S., in Latin America and worldwide,” said Jarrett Barrios, president of GLAAD, in a statement.

Moreover, your sexual orientation ends up defining you: The word “gay” will always precede “singer” or “actor” in a way that the word “straight” doesn’t always precede, say, Tom Hanks’ name. As proud as many of us are of our sexual orientation, we still want to be known for more than that.

[lizann]

Well all knew but he is still fine

[JustJodi]

well well well are we surprised ???????????????????????? LOL

[Perdita]

Ricky Martin has been awarded for his contributions to the LGBT community at the 22nd annual GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) Media Awards.

Popeater reports that Martin was given two awards at last night's ceremony, including the 'Vito Russo Award' for helping combat homophobia, and an award for 'Outstanding Talk Show Appearance' for his guest slot on Oprah last year.

Martin came out as gay in March 2010 following years of speculation about his sexuality, and appeared on Oprah soon after to discuss both his decision to come out and becoming a parent to twin boys.

"Ricky coming out was a game changer for many gay and transgender Latino children, who for too long did not have many out gay people to look up to," GLAAD president Jarrett Barrios said during the presentation.

Among the television shows given awards for their portrayal of gay characters were NBC's comedy series 30 Rock and Alan Ball's HBO drama True Blood.

Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons was also honoured with the 'Excellence in Media Award' for his opposition to the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' military policy which was finally repealed in the US last year.

DS