By Mark Gray
7:52am PDT, Apr 15, 2021
More than two years after starring on "The Bachelor," Colton Underwood has addressed his sexuality: He's gay. The former NFL player came out in an interview with "Good Morning America" journalist Robin Roberts on April 14, saying the coronavirus pandemic made him face his truth. "I've ran from myself for a long time. I've hated myself for a long time … and I'm gay. And I came to terms with that earlier this year and have been processing it. And the next step in all of this was sort of letting people know," he said. After his announcement, many celebrities and Bachelor Nation alums reacted on social media. Keep reading to see who's supporting Colton… starting with one of the women who competed on his season of "The Bachelor" before going on to lead her own season of "The Bachelorette." Tweeted Tayshia Adams: @colton I am so proud of you for finally being able to share and live your truth. Sending you love and support!" Keep reading for more…
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"Very proud of you today @coltonunderwood Happy to see you stand up and openly live your truth. You have my love and support my friend" –Chris Harrison
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"Sending @colton love, light, support and deep respect. It is real bravery to live your truth in this world. Thank you for being so open and courageous with your journey." –Meghan McCain
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"You're free now, @colton. A toaster is on its way.. Great interview @RobinRoberts" —Andy Cohen
"Welcome to the community brother" –Demi Burnett, who competed on Colton Underwood's season and has since come out as bisexual
"'Coming out' can be a terrifying, uncomfortable, and traumatizing experience because we still live in a world where we are made to fear the consequences of living freely. Let that sink in. So happy for @colton Underwood. His courage will undoubtably save lives today." –Dan Levy
"I'm happy for @colton. If you're gay, be gay! I've been gay forever & I love it!" –Billy Eichner
"This is so exciting. I feel like people are becoming more comfortable in their own skin. It took me 42 years to come out. There was a lot of shame and self-hatred and, in my case, drinking to avoid it." –Braunwyn Windham-Burke via "Watch with Kate Casey"
"Congrats to Colton Underwood but also What?? You apply & compete with other men to go on a TV show looking for love & you think you might be gay? What about processing that without involving TV crews and 25 girls. It's a great day for gay men, bad day for young women. #Bachelor," Carole Radziwill wrote. After receiving some backlash, she added, "I've known many men who've struggled and come out at different times in their lives. It's very difficult. But I believe this was a TV show involving 25 women all I'm saying is if there is any doubt why do that? Seems harder…"
"I support Colton for having the courage to finally be able to live his life authentically. Nobody should have to hide from who they really are. I'll always wish Colton the very best and hoping he has found his peace" –Season 23 finalist Hannah Godwin, via TMZ
"I'm so proud of you, @colton!" –Nicole Lopez-Alvar, who appeared on Colton Underwood's season of "The Bachelor"
"Happy for @colton for speaking his truth. We support you" –Onyeka Ehie, who appeared on Colton Underwood's season of "The Bachelor"
"All the best to you @colton.. life gets better standing in your truth!!!" –Loni Love
"So proud of my buddy @colton I admire your courage to live your truth, and happy to call you a friend #coltonunderwood" –Johnny Bananas
"I couldn't be more proud of my friend. Congratulations @colton!" –Patti Murin
"I commend you @colton for speaking your truth. In the world we live in today, show kindness it's free" –Tahzjuan Hawkins, who appeared on Colton Underwood's season of "The Bachelor"
