Ricky Martin livin’ la vida open, says he’s gay

NEW YORK – Ricky Martin is no longer denying the rumours: He’s gay.
In a statement posted via Twitter in both Spanish and English, and later confirmed with his representative, Martin said: ‘I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am.’

For many, Monday’s announcement will come as no surprise; the ‘Livin’ La Vida Loca’ singer’s sexuality has been speculated about for years. But the Puerto Rican star, who got his start as a child in the teen group Menudo, never directly addressed it and was usually seen at events with beautiful women on his arm.Martin (38) said he decided to reveal the truth after working on his memoirs helped him realise that he had to be free with himself, and not keep any more secrets.’From the moment I wrote the first phrase I was sure the book was the tool that was going to help me free myself from things I was carrying within me for a long time. Things that were too heavy for me to keep inside,’ he said. ‘Writing this account of my life, I got very close to my truth. And this is something worth celebrating.’Martin said one of the reasons why he kept his homosexuality hidden was because he was told by some that it would hurt his career. ‘Allowing myself to be seduced by fear and insecurity became a self-fulfilling prophecy of sabotage. Today I take full responsibility for my decisions and my actions.’Coming out ‘fills me with strength and courage’, Martin said.’Today is my day, this is my time, and this is my moment.’Martin, who is the father of two boys born via surrogate in 2008, said he couldn’t continue to hide his sexuality now that he is a father: ‘Enough is enough. This has to change.’While his US career peaked after the release of his 1999 self-titled English album, a multi-platinum success that included the hits ‘Livin’ La Vida Loca’ and ‘Shake Your Bon-Bon’, he is still a hugely successful Latin artist. The five-time Grammy award winner has also been hailed for his philanthropic efforts including his work as a Unicef goodwill ambassador and the creation of his Puerto Rico-based Ricky Martin Foundation to promote health, education and social justice for children around the world.The singer’s book is still a work in progress. – Nampa-AP-AFPOn the Net: http://www.rickymartin.com

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