Is Joshua Bassett Gay? What the Actor Has Said About His Sexuality
Joshua Bassett has become one of the most talked-about young stars in entertainment today, thanks to his breakout role on Disney’s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series and his rising music career. With his charming personality, heartfelt lyrics, and openness in interviews, Bassett has cultivated a devoted fanbase that follows his journey both on and off screen. However, with increased fame comes curiosity about his personal life—especially when it comes to his sexuality.
So, is Joshua Bassett gay? The short answer is that Joshua Bassett has not placed a specific label on his sexuality, but he has openly stated that he is part of the LGBTQ+ community and embraces love in all its forms.
Who Is Joshua Bassett?
Joshua Bassett was born on December 22, 2000, in Oceanside, California. He began performing at a young age, appearing in community theater and eventually landing small roles in television shows like Lethal Weapon and Stuck in the Middle. His big break came in 2019 when he was cast as Ricky Bowen in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, a Disney+ reboot of the beloved High School Musical franchise.
In the series, Bassett plays the lead role opposite Olivia Rodrigo, and their on-screen chemistry quickly drew attention. As the show gained popularity, so did the actors, especially Bassett, who began developing a parallel career as a singer-songwriter. He released a string of singles and EPs, showcasing his emotional vulnerability and melodic talent. Songs like “Lie Lie Lie,” “Feel Something,” and “Only a Matter of Time” earned him a spot on the charts and cemented his status as a multi-talented performer.
Bassett’s success has also been amplified by the media frenzy surrounding his rumored real-life relationship with Rodrigo, which many believe inspired her hit debut single “Drivers License.” The public interest in his dating life—combined with a viral video in which he commented on pop star Harry Styles—sparked a wider conversation about his sexuality.
What Joshua Bassett Has Said About His Sexuality
The speculation around Joshua Bassett’s sexuality peaked in May 2021, when a video clip of him praising Harry Styles went viral. In the video, Bassett said, “I think he’s a very classy man. He’s also very well-rounded, and kind of does it all—acting, singing, fashion. I think he’s just a nice guy who doesn’t say too much, but when he talks, it matters. He’s just cool. Who doesn’t think Harry Styles is cool? Also, he’s hot, you know? This is also my coming out video, I guess.”
The remark was made casually and with a smile, leading some viewers to wonder if he was joking or genuinely making a statement. The ambiguity of his tone led to a flood of reactions online, with fans and media outlets debating whether Bassett had officially come out.
Shortly after the video gained traction, Bassett clarified his position in a heartfelt Instagram post. He wrote, “My entire life people have told me my sexuality. 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. Toxicity, hatred, and negativity say less about the subject, but say far more about those who spew it. It’s 2021. We are the generation of love and growth. It’s time we start acting like it. Whether you love me, hate me, or damn me to hell, I love you all the same.”
He continued, “Love who you love shamelessly. It’s okay to still be figuring out who you are. Life’s too short to let ignorance and hatred win. I choose love.”
These words resonated with many fans and LGBTQ+ individuals who appreciated Bassett’s vulnerability and decision to speak out without putting himself in a restrictive box. While he didn’t specify whether he identifies as gay, bisexual, pansexual, or queer, he made it clear that he supports the LGBTQ+ community and includes himself within it.
Public Reaction and Support
Joshua Bassett’s coming-out moment was widely celebrated across social media. Fans praised him for his bravery, especially considering his status as a Disney star, where historically, coming out could have risked one’s career. Fellow celebrities and influencers offered messages of support, commending him for using his platform to advocate for authenticity and self-love.
His decision not to label his sexuality also helped push forward the ongoing conversation about sexual fluidity, particularly among younger generations. In a culture that increasingly values nuance and personal identity, Bassett’s openness encouraged others to embrace the idea that you don’t need to define yourself by rigid terms to be valid.
Bassett has continued to express himself through his music, much of which explores themes of love, confusion, heartbreak, and self-discovery. He’s been candid in interviews about mental health, the pressure of fame, and the emotional journey he’s been on since rising to public attention—all of which have endeared him even further to fans who relate to those struggles.
Respecting Identity and Expression
In an era where celebrity culture often invites invasive curiosity, it’s important to remember that no one owes the public a complete explanation of their identity. Joshua Bassett’s approach to his sexuality is honest and modern—he acknowledges it, supports others, and expresses himself freely, without feeling the need to categorize his experience for the sake of clarity.
This kind of transparency—without the pressure of labeling—is becoming more common, particularly among Gen Z celebrities and public figures. Artists like Harry Styles, Bella Ramsey, and Janelle Monáe have also embraced fluid identities or avoided traditional labels, helping to destigmatize queerness and promote inclusivity across industries.
Bassett’s story is a reminder that sexuality is a personal and evolving part of life. His willingness to speak openly, while still protecting the parts of his identity that are private or still forming, models a healthy way to navigate fame and self-acceptance.
As fans and observers, the best way to support individuals like Bassett is by respecting their journey, encouraging their creativity, and celebrating the honesty they share with the world—on their own terms.
Featured image source: Pinterest
