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In a heartwarming turn of events, Lance Bass, former ‘NSYNC star turned LGBTQ+ icon, shared an endearing story about the thoughtful gift he received from the legendary Sir Elton John after famously coming out privately. Bass, who publicly acknowledged his sexuality in 2006, has been a visible presence in the gay community ever since, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and inspiring thousands along the way.
Sir Elton John, who is no stranger to the highs and lows that come with being openly gay in the limelight, sent Bass an empathetic and supportive token.
“The most fun thing I got after I came out was a nice gift basket — I think on my front step — and it was from Elton John basically saying, ‘Welcome to the club,’” Bass told PEOPLE.
“I was like, ‘Wow, I got a welcome basket from the king of the gay mafia.’ I’m like, ‘I’m in!’ I thought that was the most fun, welcoming basket you could ever get.”
Bass was told that coming out would mean the end of his career.
“That’s always what I was told: ‘If you come out, you’re done,’” Bass said.
“I didn’t expect how positive the rest of the world would treat it.”
“The industry said, oh, well, we can’t use you now. But the public — they made it such a positive thing. Once I was able to see that reaction, it made me feel so good that I wasn’t going to be hated.”
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Bass was thrust into the spotlight as a teenager with ‘NSYNC, and since his coming out, has dedicated his life to promoting awareness around LGBTQ+ issues. His fearless vulnerability while navigating fame and sexuality has empowered many, especially young people negotiating their own identities within the LGBTQ+ community.
Lately, Bass has been spending quality time with his husband, Michael Turchin. The couple, who wed in 2014, have openly shared their journey towards parenthood, further debunking societal stereotypes and homophobia.
His impressive career trajectory post-‘NSYNC, from a pop royalty to a celebrated television personality, has been nothing short of remarkable. Bass acted in several films and television shows, hosted radio shows, enjoyed stints on Broadway, and left his mark on reality TV.
Bass’ enduring influence, whether through his music or activism, has been a source of inspiration for many within the LGBTQ+ community. The kindness and solidarity shown by Sir Elton serves as a poignant reminder of the unity that bonds this community together, continuing to blur the lines between personal narratives and public advocacy in the fight for equality.
Related: Lance Bass Hints at *NSYNC Reunion
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