In 2019, Sam Smith publicly shared that they use they/them pronouns, marking a pivotal moment in their journey toward self-acceptance and gender authenticity.
Despite this announcement, the 33-year-old Grammy-winning singer continues to face misgendering in both media coverage and public commentary.
On X, Smith reflected on the personal struggle with gender identity, describing it as “a lifetime of being at war” and expressing a desire to live authentically. They acknowledged that mistakes happen but urged others to “please please try” to use the correct pronouns.
Yet misgendering remains frequent. At the Grammy Awards, an Associated Press reporter repeatedly used male pronouns when commenting on Smith’s fashion choices, drawing criticism for ignoring the singer’s identity.
Similarly, musician Bob Geldof faced backlash after repeatedly referring to Smith as “he” during an appearance on ITV’s This Morning, with hosts Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield failing to correct him—an omission that frustrated viewers expecting acknowledgment of Smith’s pronouns.
More recently, TV host Lorraine Kelly was criticized for multiple instances of misgendering while discussing Smith’s outfit for the Barbie movie premiere. Kelly alternated between “him” and “that fella,” while guest Vogue Williams correctly used they/them pronouns. Online reactions were swift: some condemned Kelly for disrespecting Smith’s identity, while others argued that Smith “looks like a man,” reflecting ongoing societal debates around gender perception.
The incidents highlight the broader challenges of adapting language in a society increasingly aware of gender diversity. Speaking with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, Smith described using they/them pronouns as feeling like “coming home,” offering a sense of safety and comfort. At the same time, they acknowledged that habits take time to change: “Everyone messes up… I’m going to be misgendered to the day I die.”
Conclusion
Sam Smith’s experiences underscore the real-world impact of misgendering on non-binary individuals. Even unintentional errors can cause emotional harm and reinforce misunderstanding.
Their story demonstrates the importance of respecting pronouns, listening to lived experiences, and consciously adapting language. Honoring someone’s identity may seem small, but it is a meaningful step toward fostering a more inclusive and understanding culture.