2009 'X Factor' Winner Joe McElderry Comes Out

Big up to last year's X Factor winner Joe McElderry, who today revealed he is gay on his official site. Joe topped the UK chart once on his own—with his cover of Miley Cyrus' "The Climb" (after, of course, an initial harshing by Rage Against The Machine)—and contributed vocals to the all star Helping Haiti charity cover of "Everybody Hurts," which also hit #1 in England earlier this year. (He also sang on last November's chart-topping cover of "You Are Not Alone" with the other X Factor Finalists.)

Here's his statement in full:

"Hey Guys,

"Tomorrow there will be some articles about me in the newspapers because I have been doing some important interviews today. I wanted you to know that the articles are true. I also wanted you to know that I really respect your loyal support and all the kind messages I have had from you up to this date.
I have always been a very honest person and so it is important for me to continue to be honest. It has been the most amazing year so far and I feel so privileged. It’s also been a time of real self realisation and I feel as if I have grown up so much in these few months.

"There has been speculation about my sexuality in the past and I have always been honest at the time I have been asked. Over the past few weeks I have really had time to reflect and to realise who I am. I spoke to my friends and family about this in the last few days and it was important to do the same for you all as you have been so supportive.

"I have had nothing but support from you and many of you have been very open in saying that you will continue to support me whatever my sexuality. It is important to me to let you know first, so that you know the stories in the papers are true. I made the choice to speak openly about this.

"Again, I can’t thank you enough for all your support. Everything is going well and I’m really happy to be able to move forward from here.

Joe."

Joe, who just turned 19 last month, couldn't have been classier. And to think, when I came out at 20, I think I wrote my statement on the backside of some stripper at a rave...