Famed Olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe is once again addressing rumors that he is gay. The five time gold medalist rose to prominence at the 2000 Sydney games. Since that time he has been asked if he's gay.
Next Sunday, Thorpe will be sitting down with Sir Gregory Parkinson for a ‘no holds barred’ interview, in which his sexuality figures prominently. Referring to a promo clip being circulated ahead of the interview, The Daily Mail comments:
In the 25 second clip, Parkinson said to Thorpe: 'You've always said that you're not gay… is all of that true?'
The scene then cuts to an uncomfortable looking Thorpe, 31, who appears to be nervously finding his words. […]
Parkinson said Thorpe's decision that no question was off limits was brave and says he examines the good times and the bad of the Australian swimming legend.
'His fight against depression offers a unique insight into the darker side of celebrity and success,' Parkinson said in a statement released by Ten.
'What fascinates me most about Ian is that apart from the very beginning of his career, he never seemed to enjoy and celebrate his success.
Two years ago Thorpe commented that he was “annoyed” by the gay rumors. Just months later, Thorpe told a TV interviewer he wasn’t so much offended by the insinuation that he is gay as he was hurt by people not taking him at his word. As for the reasons for the speculation on his sexuality, Thorpe has long held that it is because he does not fit the typical mold of an athlete in the eyes of most.
Watch the preview clip of the upcoming interview, AFTER THE JUMP…
