Robert Pattinson is one of the most popular British men currently working in Hollywood. Besides being the subject of many love songs, the 30-year-old English actor has also graced the big and small screens with his talent. In 2019 alone, he was in two major motion pictures, the psychological horror film [Hush] and the baseball comedy [The Great Yuletide].
But is Robert Pattinson actually dating someone, and if so, who is she? Is he gay or pansexual? We’ll explore each possibility.
Pansexual
Pansexual is an umbrella term used to identify individuals who are romantically and sexually compatible with people of all genders. It can also be used to describe an identity, which embraces sexuality as well as attraction. Put simply, someone who is pansexual might find themselves attracted to, or interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with, a man or woman.
Pansexuality is not a sexual orientation, but it is often confused with it. Although people with this identity may be romantically and/or sexually compatible with individuals of all genders, they do not necessarily experience attraction or love towards all genders equally. One of the biggest misconceptions about pansexuality is that it is a ‘versatile’ identity. While it is true that people with this identity can experience romantic and sexual attraction to individuals of all genders, it is also imperative to understand that it is not necessarily mutual. In other words, it is possible to experience love and attraction towards someone of your own gender, while being attracted to or interested in a romantic relationship with someone of the opposite gender. For example, if you are romantically attracted to a woman, but also find men attractive, you would identify as pansexual.
Due to widespread misunderstanding and ignorance about this identity, many people with pansexuality choose to remain relatively anonymous. However, that should not be the case. As much as people with this identity might want to avoid being outed, it is important to understand that remaining anonymous protects their mental health and safety.
Gay
Despite advancements in LGBT+ rights, coming out is still considered a minefield for many individuals, especially those in Hollywood. If you are lucky enough to come from a country where homosexuality is not criminalized, you may decide to be out to your family and friends. But, for the most part, being gay is still considered a dirty secret, especially in the public eye. It is therefore imperative that the LGBT+ community continue to discuss issues such as anonymity and safety, both within and outside the movement.
The gay identity does not necessarily indicate an individual is romantically or sexually linked to another man. Indeed, many people with this identity are very much into women. It is important to understand that being gay does not merely mean you are having sex with individuals of the opposite gender. The term was originally used to describe a cultural and social orientation, which developed in the 20th century, and does not always have a direct translation into other languages.
Although it is true that many people in the LGBT+ community identify as gay, it does not necessarily follow that all gay individuals are involved in romance and sexual activities with members of the opposite sex. Plenty of gay men and women are happy to be in a gay couple or group with another individual of their same gender. Due to social stigma and the continuing need for secrecy, many individuals with this identity choose to remain closeted. However, being closeted does not necessarily mean you have to be shy or choose to hide yourself away. Many gay and lesbian celebrities are very much into being out and proud, and being open about their sexual orientation. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, homosexuality was decriminalized in the 1960s, which led to more people feeling comfortable coming out. In other countries, such as Jamaica, homosexuality remains a criminal offense, which can lead to intense oppression and mental health issues for certain individuals. So it is absolutely imperative that we continue to discuss issues such as confidentiality and safety for individuals within the LGBT+ community, both inside and outside the movement.
No Label
For many individuals, especially those in the LGBT+ community, it can be difficult to find a label that describes their sexuality accurately. In some instances, people may choose to avoid labelling themselves at all costs, as it can be incredibly difficult to find the right fit, especially if you do not want to be labeled as anything other than yourself. In a lot of cases, people with this identity simply choose to stay ‘open’, as the term is used in modern culture, and do not put a label on their sexuality. They embrace the fact that it is not simple, as there are many ways to be romantically and sexually attracted to individuals of the opposite gender, however, they do not necessarily want to limit themselves to just one identity.
Coming out is not necessarily easy for anyone, and it is still considered a dangerous step for some individuals. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety or self-worth issues, there are resources available to help. Your local library may have an LGBT+ section, where you can find books and blogs to help you understand and navigate this new world that is beyond your expectations. If you think that someone you know might be facing difficulties, the best thing you can do for them is be there for them. Don’t expect them to ‘come out’ just because you want to have a conversation about sexuality. It is often a very sensitive topic, and it is better to be there from the beginning, than to have a one-night-stand and wonder what will happen next. What you want to do is be there for them and give them your emotional and physical support, as much as you can. This is what makes you a real friend. Remember, friends are there for each other, no matter what.