Amidst persistent speculation about a possible romance between Lupita Nyong’o and Janelle Monáe, the talented actress has finally opened up about their close friendship. While Janelle Monáe, the singer who recently garnered acclaim for her performance in the Oscar-nominated murder mystery “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” prepares for the release of her highly anticipated album, “The Age of Pleasure,” next month, Lupita Nyong’o has taken a nostalgic journey down memory lane.
Their friendship blossomed when they first met at the 2014 Met Gala, shortly after Nyong’o’s triumphant Oscar win for her role in “12 Years a Slave.” Over the years, rumors about a romantic connection between the two have persisted. In a recent cover story in Rolling Stone, Nyong’o acknowledged that she understood why people would think that, attributing it to Monáe’s captivating magnetism.
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Nyong’o, who is currently in a relationship with television host Selema Masekela, fondly recalled her first encounter with Monáe when she was still navigating her way through Hollywood. As the world of fame and fortune overwhelmed her, Monáe approached her with open arms and genuine warmth. They may have swayed to the music together, and Monáe expressed her pride in Nyong’o’s achievements and gratitude for her authenticity. They exchanged phone numbers, with Monáe emphasizing her willingness to provide support whenever needed.
Despite their profound bond, Nyong’o admitted that there are still aspects of Monáe’s life she remains unaware of, acknowledging the artist’s desire to maintain a level of privacy. Janelle Monáe, who publicly identifies as pansexual since 2018 and non-binary since 2022, has been a steadfast advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. While she openly discusses her identity and sexuality, she maintains a firm boundary when it comes to personal matters.
Speaking to Rolling Stone, Monáe expressed her intention to preserve the privacy of her personal life, highlighting that she can authentically discuss her artistry, identity, and sexuality without divulging every detail. This intentional decision allows her to maintain a sense of mystery that captivates her fans and admirers.
In an industry often driven by speculation and curiosity, Lupita Nyong’o’s heartfelt account sheds light on the enduring bond she shares with Janelle Monáe. Their friendship serves as a testament to the power of support, understanding, and mutual respect, transcending the boundaries of romance and demonstrating the beauty of authentic connections in the entertainment world.
