Renowned writer, director, and actor Michaela Coel, known for her work on “Chewing Gum” and “I May Destroy You,” proudly identifies as aromantic. In a 2018 interview with The Culture Trip, she expressed, “I Googled aromanticism and I very much felt like, ‘Oh, that’s me.’ I am OK being by myself. I like having intimate relationships but I don’t want to change people or want to be changed by anyone.” Coel’s openness about her identity adds depth to the discourse on asexuality.
Alice Oseman: Asexuality and Aromanticism Advocate
Alice Oseman, the celebrated author of the best-selling “Heartstopper” graphic novels, openly embraces their life as an asexual and aromantic individual. They have spoken about discovering their asexuality and aromanticism during their time at university. Oseman challenges misconceptions, stating, “Interviewers come to me with a preconceived notion of what my identity is, and assumptions about how an ace person experiences the world. People are asking the wrong questions.”
Janeane Garofalo: A Comedic Asexual Icon
Comedian Janeane Garofalo humorously describes herself as a member of the “asexual celebs pantheon” in her stand-up shows. She distinguishes her lack of interest from a fear of intimacy, often quipping, “It makes me far more interesting than an asexual atheist.” Garofalo’s candidness adds a touch of humor to a complex topic.
David Jay: Asexual Trailblazer and Activist
David Jay, an influential activist in the asexual community, is the founder of the Asexual Visibility and Education Network (AVEN). With AVEN, he has fostered a thriving online asexual community. Jay’s unique story, living in a three-parent family, brings a refreshing perspective to the conversation around asexuality.
Tim Gunn: Fashion Icon and Asexuality Advocate
Television personality and author Tim Gunn openly discussed his asexuality in his 2011 book, “Gunn’s Golden Rules: Life’s Little Lessons for Making It Work.” Gunn candidly stated, “I knew what I wasn’t: I wasn’t interested in boys, and I really wasn’t interested in girls. For many years, I described myself as asexual, and I still think that’s closest to the truth.” Gunn’s honesty sheds light on the diversity of experiences within the LGBTQ+ spectrum.
During Asexual Awareness Week, these prominent figures exemplify the importance of visibility, proudly embracing their asexual identities. Their stories inspire acceptance and understanding within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.