Since bursting onto the music scene, Lady Gaga has become a symbol of defiance against conventional norms and expectations.
But with fame often comes scrutiny, and for Gaga, one of the most persistent rumors that followed her was the bizarre claim that she was actually a man. The whispers started early in her career, fueled by an edited image that went viral and questions from curious fans and journalists alike.
Despite the invasive nature of these rumors, Lady Gaga has chosen not to engage in the denial frenzy. Instead, she took an unconventional approach, embracing the spotlight and using it to make a powerful statement about identity, gender, and self-expression.
Lady Gaga spent much of her early career dealing with rumors that she was actually a man. Although she was asked this in almost every interview, she never saw the need to answer.
In a 2011 interview with Anderson Cooper, he asked why she didn’t deny the rumors, unlike other artists who may have felt the need to do so. Gaga replied, “Maybe so.” Would it be so bad? Why should I waste my time trying to figure out whether or not I have a penis? My fans don’t care and neither do I.”
Recently, during her appearance on Netflix’s What’s Next? A future with Bill Gates Gaga elaborated on her decision not to address the rumors, explaining that it simply doesn’t matter to her.
Lady Gaga shared that during her 20s, rumors circulated about her being a man, often fueled by an edited image that went viral. She was often asked about it on tour and in interviews.
As an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, Gaga said she never saw herself as a “victim” of the rumors. She did not want to create an environment where children who might face similar accusations would feel ashamed. Deciding not to reply was her way of avoiding sending the wrong message.
She explained that she has fought misinformation since she was in her 20s, and instead of trying to correct a false narrative, she used it as a tool to generate conversation. Gaga found humor in the rumors and saw them as part of her journey as an artist. Rumors gained ground following her appearance at Glastonbury in 2009 after a fake photo quickly spread online.
In an interview with Q in 2010, Gaga addressed the rumors directly, saying, “People were talking about if I have a penis, so why not give them what they want? I even joked about wearing one on stage.”
She also revealed that her bold stage persona, including her deep voice and masculine stage presence, was no accident. She described it as an artistic statement, calling it “Lady Gaga Dies Hard”.
In addition, Gaga delved into what the rumors represented, especially for an artist who has openly embraced her S*xuality. She pointed out the double standard, where men who show off their S*xual achievements are praised, but when a woman does the same, she is seen as a threat, sometimes even reduced to a “she must have a penis” joke.
In the years following these rumors, Lady Gaga has continued to embrace her uniqueness and stay true to herself, refusing to let negativity define her. Instead of succumbing to the pressure to correct every false claim, she used the rumors as an opportunity to spark meaningful conversations about gender, S*xuality, and societal expectations.
Her decision not to engage in gossip further cemented her role as an intrepid trailblazer in the music industry. Gaga’s confidence, advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, and unwavering authenticity have allowed her to not only rise above controversy but also inspire countless fans to embrace who they are, regardless of the criticism they may face.