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In a candid conversation on Bethenny Frankel’s Just B podcast, celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton delved into his challenging journey of coming out at 26, while raising two young children with his ex-partner, Katie Katon.
Reflecting on that period, Chris shared, “I thought I had it all figured out,” highlighting the complexities of embracing his true self later in life.
Chris’s passion for hairstyling ignited at 13 in his hometown of Leicester, England, where he met Katie.
Their bond led to the birth of their son Billy, now 21, and daughter Kitty-Blu, 20.
Despite societal pressures and personal challenges, Katie remained a steadfast supporter.
Chris recalled a poignant moment when he revisited an old photo shoot, prompting an emotional call to Katie.
“She was incredibly supportive,” he noted, emphasizing the enduring strength of their relationship.
Reflecting on his school days, Chris recounted the bullying he faced for pursuing hairstyling—a passion that provided solace amid his struggles with dyslexia. “Hair was the first time I felt good at something,” he said, underscoring the importance of finding one’s niche.
+Related: Chris Appleton Finds Hunky Man to Love Post-Divorce
Embracing his authentic self brought profound changes to Chris’s life.
“Once I let go of the guilt and the shame of it all, my whole life changed,” he expressed, highlighting the transformative power of self-acceptance.
In early 2023, Chris’s personal life made headlines with his whirlwind romance with actor Lukas Gage.
The couple went public in February, got engaged in April, and tied the knot in a Las Vegas ceremony officiated by Kim Kardashian, with Shania Twain serenading them.
However, by November 2023, Chris filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.
Reflecting on the brief marriage, Lukas described it as a “manic episode,” acknowledging the impulsivity of their decisions.
Despite the split, both have expressed gratitude for the experience and have moved forward positively.
Chris’s journey resonates with many in our community, reminding us of the courage it takes to live authentically.
His story underscores the strength found in embracing one’s truth, no matter the obstacles.
+Related: Lukas Gage and Chris Appleton Finalize Divorce Settlement