Rumors that Robert Pattinson is gay have been circulating for years. While we may never know the exact truth, here’s a short guide to the various theories and whether or not they stand up to scrutiny.

Theory: He’s Into Dark Romance

Many people believe that Pattinson is simply playing around and hasn’t settled down with any one particular lady. The reason, they say, is that he’s into dark romance. It’s a common theme in his recent films — stories of doomed love that end in tragedy. In Twilight, he played Edward, the teenage vampire who falls in love with Bella (Kristen Stewart). In the last movie, New Moon, it was Bella’s soul mate, Jacob (Taylor Lautner), who got killed off-screen by a bear. In the upcoming On the Road, it’s Mary (Kaya Scodelario) who has to fight for survival in an American wilderness. It’s fair to say that Edward and Jacob represent the darker side of Pattinson’s romantic character, while Mary is the purest example of his more traditional views.

Theory: He’s In Love With Johnny Depp

Another popular theory about the actor is that he’s in love with Johnny Depp. The two have known each other for years and enjoy a close friendship. They also share a similar sense of humor and both appreciate good food and drink. While Depp’s recent movies haven’t been very good, he’s still one of the most talented Englishmen working in Hollywood today. If anything, Pattinson seems attracted to alpha-male personalities. He’s acted in a few romantic comedies, but those who believe that he’s into some kinky sex might have a point. Take 2005’s Mr. Pattinson, for example. In the film, he plays a man who disguises himself as a woman to hook up with women. It’s quite the comedic performance, but it’s also a far cry from the typically tame performances we’ve come to expect from the actor.

Theory: He Wants To Be A Dad

Some people believe that it’s not just about sex for Pattinson. They say that the actor actually wants to be a dad and is using his fame to help him in that direction. It’s an amazing idea and we hope that it eventually becomes a reality. After all, kids are a gift and bring endless joy into a family. If that’s what the 37-year-old wants, then who are we to stand in the way?

Theory: He Has A Crush On Emily Blunt

Emily Blunt is an English actress who we’ve recently seen in films like The Devil Wears Prada and The Young Victoria. She’s also one of the most stunning women we’ve ever seen onscreen. If you’re into blondes with dimples and fair isle blue eyes, then you’ll definitely want to take a look at Emily Blunt. Theories about her being into Pattinson run rampant on the internet. It seems that the 43-year-old shares a similar dimpled smile with the 23-year-old English actress. While we don’t know for sure, it’s definitely a smile that would make any woman weak in the knees. Unfortunately, this is one theory that doesn’t stand up to much scrutiny. If anything, Pattinson seems to have a slight favoritism for Blunt’s acting colleague and fellow British actor, Tom Hanks.

Theory: He’s Just Fun

We’re not saying that Robert Pattinson doesn’t have his serious side. He does and it’s one of the reasons why he’s so successful. He knows how to have fun and make others around him laugh. There’s a reason why the actor has been nominated for a Golden Globe four times — he always seems to find the humor in situations. He had a falling out with his Twilight co-star, Stewart, over a disagreement about the film’s ending. In the end, they made up and remain good friends. If Stewart was serious about the dispute, she may have discouraged the comedian and had him write fewer jokes for The Dark Knight. Similarly, he played a serious role in 2013’s Les Misérables, but that film is filled with his trademark humor. It wouldn’t be surprising if Pattinson decided to have some fun with the rumors about him being gay. After all, there are more important things in life than proving that you’re not gay, right?

What Do You Think?

We would love to hear your thoughts about Mr. Pattinson. Do you think that he’s gay? Why or why not? Is it just rumors or does he really act that way? Let us know what you think.