Chapter 9: Coming Out Straight: Ethics of Queer Identity Speculation and Celebrity

In January 2024, The New York Times released an opinion piece conjecturing about Taylor Swift’s sexuality. Responses brought into question whether celebrity sexuality speculation is an ethical vs toxic practice. Critics especially noted ways misogyny underlies speculation about Swift while also noting several examples of men who have experienced similar sexuality speculation, such as Harry Styles, Shawn Mendes and Misha Collins, leading to discourse on the phenomenon of celebrities coming out as straight. In a world where queer identities remain marginalised and representation still leaves much to be desired, it is no wonder fans look to celebrities as potential role models, leading to speculation. Through the lenses of psychology, sociology and fandom studies, this chapter explores the deeper histories surrounding celebrity sexuality speculation and its relationship to the practice of intentional queer coding as well as establishes ethical principles for journalistic and fannish public discourse about celebrity sexuality speculation.