Robyn is the CEO & Founder of HER. Find her on Twitter.
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May 30, 2023
Hey there, fabulous folks! Today, we’re diving into a celebration of pansexual celebrities breaking barriers and bringing much-needed representation to the forefront. These incredible individuals are not only super talented, but they also proudly embrace their pansexuality.
Get ready to meet some fierce and fabulous stars making waves and inspiring others to be their authentic pan selves!
Before we jump into the exciting world of pansexual celebrities, let’s take a moment to appreciate these stars’ impact on the world by being out and proud! For context, I grew up in an era where celebrities and influencers would come out in one of two ways: in an emotional YouTube video or in tabloids.
Source: Harper’s Bazaar
Now, celebs and influencers are coming out in funny TikToks (Noah Schnapp, you are an icon), casual interviews, Instagram posts — the list goes on.
It feels like we’ve seen a lot more queer joy and celebration surrounding coming out than ever before — and I’d love to keep it that way! I’m sure you do too.
By openly identifying as pansexual, these celebs and public figures are expanding conversations around sexuality, and challenging social norms and stereotypes, such as pansexuality being a “phase” or the “same thing” as bisexuality.
Their courage and authenticity shine a bright light on the importance of inclusivity and love in all its glorious forms. We’ll be talking about pansexual icons like:
So, let’s get ready to hear their stories!
Miley Cyrus is a childhood pop icon we all know and love. But beyond being a country-pop-rock-and-roll-good-girl-gone-bad-gone-amazing kind of icon, she is also an amazing advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights.
In 2015, she officially came out as pansexual in an interview with Elle UK, saying ‘I’m very open about it – I’m pansexual.” She is also the founder of the Happy Hippie Foundation, an organization dedicated to fighting the injustice that homeless LGBTQIA + youth may face.
Source: Elle
In addition to their chart-topping hits and jaw-dropping performances, Miley’s story has profoundly impacted her millions of fans. Miley’s unique personality and open exploration of her identity have encouraged countless individuals to embrace their own sexualities and live authentically!
“Let me be clear: YOU don’t CHOOSE your sexuality. You are born as you are. It has always been my priority to protect the LGBTQIA+ community I am a part of.”
Janelle Monáe is a sensational musician and actor whose recent performance in the Knives Out sequel had everyone in a chokehold. More recently, they graced us with “Lipstick Lover,” a hot af hymn about loving women.
Source: People
Beyond their mesmerizing performances, Janelle’s openness about their pansexuality and being non-binary has brought much-needed visibility to the LGBTQIA+ community. Through their music and artistry, Janelle explores themes of love, identity, and breaking binary boundaries, resonating deeply with queer fans worldwide.
“I don’t see how you identify. And I feel like that opens you up to fall in love with whoever, with any beautiful spirit.”
We’ve known and loved Mae Whitman for so long that it really feels like we’ve grown up together. She’s most known for her performances as Tinker Bell in the Pixie Hollow franchise and her roles in Scott Pilgrim vs. The World and The Perks of Being a Wallflower. When she came out as pansexual, fans couldn’t help but feel happy for an “old friend.”
Source: NBC News
Her reputation as an LGBTQIA+ icon skyrocketed since voicing the first lesbian Disney character, Amity, from The Owl House. The conversation that sparked with this event led Mae to show her pride and talk about her pansexuality and the immeasurable importance of queer representation.
“Being pansexual myself, I wish I had such incredible characters like Amity and Luz in my life when I was growing up. Queer representation is sososo important. Keep it up, world!”
Rina Sawayama is a rising star and powerhouse singer-songwriter. She has been making waves with her groundbreaking music, especially with her 2018 single “Cherry,” inspired by her pansexuality. Rina’s identity, along with her bold and innovative sound, has earned her a dedicated fan base that embraces her for her talent and unapologetic self-expression.
Source: Rolling Stone
And it doesn’t end in her music and lyrics. Rina emphasizes how important it is for her to work and collaborate with people who amplify her stories and those who relate. Her passion for highlighting queer and Asian struggles in her art and using her platform to elevate her chosen family is truly something to be proud of.
“If it’s a unique story coming from a marginalized group, it’s important that labels let artists be themselves.”
Héloïse Letissier, the creative genius behind Christine and the Queens, is a genderqueer, pansexual force to be reckoned with. Her performances, marked by electrifying choreography and thought-provoking visuals, have captivated audiences worldwide, inspiring a new generation of artists to embrace their true selves.
Source: Wegow
She publicly came out in 2014, and French media went bonkers grasping the concept of pansexuality. Héloïse stated that some people tried to make her feel obscene or dirty, but she never let anyone break her spirits. She went on to become the unapologetic queer icon she is today.
“[Pansexual] means that I can fall in love with someone regardless of their gender, regardless of how they define themselves. I don’t really see that as an obstacle, as a definition.”
From Barney to Disney and super-stardom, Demi Lovato has shown the world their immense passion as a singer, actor, and LGBTQIA+ advocate. They have been open about being non-binary and their pansexuality. With a spotlight shining on every aspect of their life since they were a teenager, Demi’s embrace of their sexuality and identity is a sign of strength and resilience. A truly remarkable example for us all.
Source: Billboard
They shared that their queer awakening was “the picnic scene” from Cruel Intentions and how growing up in conservative Texas made them suppress those feelings until adulthood. That’s why, through their music and advocacy work, Demi continues to break down barriers and create spaces for acceptance and love.
“Yeah, pansexual. I heard someone call the LGBTQIA+ community the ‘alphabet mafia,’ and I was like, ‘That’s it. That’s what I’m going with, I’m part of the alphabet mafia and proud.”
Speaking of conservative Texas — Mary González is a State Representative making history as the first pansexual legislator in the United States. She was known as THE lesbian politician when she was running, but that’s a label that the media decided to use for her. She actually never claimed it, preferring to call herself “LGBT-identified.”
Source: The Daily Texan
In 2012, right after being elected, she officially announced her pansexuality since she didn’t want to derive attention from her campaign. Mary firmly believes there is a way to change the future for LGBTQIA+ youth from the inside, actively advocating for trans, gay, lesbian, bi, and pansexual rights.
“I think one of the best ways to combat homophobia and heterosexism is to use your own story as a tool for justice.“
This fierce and fabulous winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race is a drag icon and a queer superstar. Bob’s electrifying performances, witty humor, and unapologetic self-expression have made them a beloved figure in the LGBTQIA+ community. They came out as pansexual and non-binary in a pretty “chill” tweet, which we love! One great way to normalize these conversations is to start them casually.
Source: IN Magazine
Even though drag is an art form traditionally associated with only gay men, people like Bob push the narrative of treating it like it is: a celebration of identity that transcends gender and celebrates all expressions of love.
“I’m also black. So, this is what we’re talking about, intersectionality, right? I’m also queer. And I’m also non-binary. And I think all these cultures have contributed to every essence of my being.”
JoJo Siwa, the vibrant and energetic entertainer, has become a role model for young audiences worldwide. JoJo’s infectious energy, catchy music, and dynamic personality have won the hearts of millions.
Source: CinemaBlend
In early 2021, JoJo came out as pansexual in an interview with People and kept sharing her journey with her fans through TikTok. Her openness and willingness to explore her identity, and bring a safe space for questioning folks, have inspired young LGBTQIA+ individuals to embrace their own truths, and feel proud of who they are.
“I like queer. Technically I would say that I am pansexual because that’s how I have always been my whole life is just like, my human is my human.”
The frontman from beloved emo band Panic! At The Disco, Brendon Urie, has been an out and proud pan prince since 2018. Even though he’s been married to his wife Sarah for ten years, he’s always been open to discussing his sexuality.
Source: Kerrang!
The dynamic and talented performer is an excellent example of validation in the community, especially for people who tend to have imposter syndrome about their sexuality and the person they end up with. So rest assured and know that your pansexuality is valid no matter who you’re dating!
“If a person is great, then a person is great. I just like good people, if your heart’s in the right place. I’m definitely attracted to men. It’s just people that I am attracted to,”
Madison Bailey, a rising talent known for her role in the hit series “Outer Banks,” has quickly become a star in Hollywood. As a pansexual actress, Madison brings a refreshing authenticity to her characters and actively advocates for LGBTQIA+ representation in the industry. Her presence onscreen and candid discussions about her sexuality have resonated with fans, who appreciate her positive impact.
Source: Yahoo
With a pretty young audience, Madison has tried to educate them on pansexuality and gay rights through TikTok and interviews. She takes the opportunity to use her platform with 9M followers and make the change she wants to see in the world.
“I feel zero shame, and I don’t feel that way because nobody’s ever really shamed me for it, and I know a lot of people have had a lot of hate and lack of support. […] It was worth it. I feel lighter, I feel happier that I can just be so open and honest. It feels nice.”
Asia Kate Dillon, a non-binary icon, is known for their roles in “Billions” and “Orange Is the New Black,” and her open, enthusiastic approach to their fluid sexuality. Even if Asia has expressed their views on labels and finds them personally unnecessary, they identify as pansexual.
Source: Time
Their performance in “Billions” was truly groundbreaking, a show about Wall Street bros introduced a badass non-binary character in season 2, and since then, they have used their fame to preach what they believe in — a free identity and way of loving outside of gender norms.
“[I am a] human being who is attracted to other human beings.”
Yungblud is an energetic and charismatic rock star making waves in a new generation of alternative kids. Yungblud identifies as pansexual and polyamorous, so he has a lot of love to give! His music and activism go beyond labels, advocating for acceptance, inclusivity, and love for all.
Source: Vice
His high-energy concerts and powerful lyrics resonate with fans who find solace and empowerment in their unfiltered authenticity. He’s always pushing people to feel beautiful and embrace their unique, authentic selves.
“I was just like with it all; ‘I’m pan, you know what I’m saying?’ It doesn’t matter what genitalia you’ve got or what you identify as, if I love you, I love you, and that’s it, and that’s [something] I’ve struggled with my whole life because I didn’t know what I was.”
Jazz Jennings, a fearless transgender activist and reality television personality known from her TLC show “I Am Jazz,” has been a vocal defender of LGBTQIA+ rights most of her life. The 22-year-old, who identifies as pansexual, has shared her transition journey with the world since she was just a kid, risking her privacy to educate and inspire others along the way.
Source: GMA
Jazz’s courage, resilience, and commitment to acceptance and equality for the community have made her an icon for young queer individuals navigating their identities.
“That’s what it is to be pansexual, you know – loving people for who they are on the inside, no matter their label. Just loving someone. So I guess I am pansexual, but I don’t know because I haven’t fallen in love.”
ROES, better known by their stage name Angel Haze, is an unapologetic rapper and artist who has been pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. As a pansexual and two-spirit artist, ROES embraces their fluidity not only in terms of sexuality but also in their gender identity.
Source: Live Nation
They are Cherokee, and being two-spirit is a concept rooted in many Indigenous cultures, encompassing the embodiment of both masculine and feminine qualities. With their background and personal experiences, ROES brings a unique perspective to their music, breaking down barriers and sparking conversations about homophobia, sexuality, gender, and identity. Their powerful and introspective free-style lyrics have resonated with fans, making them a prominent figure in the LGBTQIA+ community.
“I see people for who they are… I don’t base all of my relationships off of sex. […] I care about connecting with people on a deeper level…I want something that’s deep-rooted.”
In a world that often tries to confine love and sexuality to narrow categories, these pansexual celebrities rise above societal expectations! Through their artistry, activism, and unwavering embrace of their identity, they challenge the status quo, redefine representation, and inspire countless individuals around the globe.
Their stories remind us that love knows no boundaries and that the spectrum of human experience is vast and beautiful. Let’s celebrate these trailblazers’ courage and commitment to creating a world where everyone feels seen, accepted, and celebrated for who they truly are.
Let’s continue to amplify diverse voices, break down barriers, and strive for a future where love and acceptance reign supreme. Keep shining, rainbow warriors, for the world needs your vibrant colors!
Robyn is the CEO & Founder of HER. Find her on Twitter.