Chip Arndt Congratulates Former Partner Reichen Lehmkuhl & Lance Bass
GayWired.com reports Chip Arndt, whose winning of the hit CBS-TV reality show ‘The Amazing Race’ with former partner Reichen Lehmkuhl advanced the right of gay marriage, has expressed his congratulations to *NSYNC star Lance Bass for his courage in telling People magazine, “I’m gay”, and announcing his relationship with Lehmkuhl to the world.
Arndt said, “The incredible, international response to our participation in ‘The Amazing Race’ from young LGBT people led me to commit my life to doing all I can to help make them proud of who they are and fully integrate into their families and communities. As we continue to be demonized and exploited by the highest levels of government and antigay-for-pay religious extremists, Lance’s example for his countless fans and those who don’t know him personally is another major step forward on the road to full equality for LGBT people. Lance’s courage and integrity demonstrates to everyone, once again, the incredible variety of wonderful people who make up the colors of the rainbow flag. I wish him and Reichen the very best and look forward to working with them to achieve our shared goal of first class citizenship, while protecting and empowering LGBT youth!”
The full story at gaywired.com has since been removed.
Industry Helped ‘Sweet Kid’ Lance Bass Keep His Secret
July 27, 2006 - A top music industry executive, who requested anonymity Wednesday, told Bill Zwecker of The Chicago Sun-Times he was not surprised that former *NSYNC star Lance Bass’ homosexuality had not been revealed earlier.
“Unlike people like George Michael or Elton John - gay guys who have made enemies over the years - Lance Bass is a sweet kid who is very well liked in the business,” the exec said. “A lot of people knew he was gay, but nobody really cared and didn’t want to out him just for spite.”
Lance Bass’ Struggle
July 27, 2006 - One of Lance Bass’ friends tells The New York Daily News the singer remained closeted not only for the sake of *NSYNC, but because of his parents. “His biggest struggle has been coming out to his family,” the source said. “They’re super-religious and he thought they would never accept him. But he’s been out to his friends for at least five years.”
