In a brand new interview with GQ, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series star Joshua Bassett spoke openly about his coming out and sexuality. "Even if there are consequences, I would much rather deal with consequences and live my truth than live in fear," said the 20-year-old.
Last May, Bassett made headlines when he shared his crush on Harry Styles. "Who doesn't think Harry Styles is cool? Also, he's hot. He's very charming too. Lots of things. I guess this is also my coming out video I guess."
At the time, fans didn't know if Bassett was joking or not. He clarified with an Instagram post, where he revealed that he identifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community. "My entire life people have told me my sexuality," he wrote. "People have shamed me for things they know nothing about. I want to say thank you to those of you who stand for love and acceptance." He didn't specify a label at the time as it seems he's still taking to the time to figure out how he identifies.
In his latest interview, Bassett says he stands "behind every word that I said."
He's still taking time to understand himself before picking a label. "There are plenty of letters in the alphabet ... Why bother rushing to a conclusion? Sometimes your letter changes, sometimes you try a different one, other times you realize you’re not what you thought you were, or maybe you always knew."
"All of these can be true. I’m happy to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community because they embrace all. Don’t let anyone tell you love isn’t love. They’re the ones who probably need it the most."
Bassett hopes "that this generation can feel comfortable, confident, and safe talking about sexuality without needing to be a box and without needing to have it all figured out." He got emotional reflecting on what that might've meant to him if he heard that message when he was younger. "I didn’t necessarily have that when I was younger. I didn’t have a me saying stuff like this," he said.
At the end of the day, Bassett is "very at peace. I’m celebrating Pride all month long."
