The Definitive Answer: What Does Sam Smith Identify As And Their Powerful Journey Of Self-Acceptance

The question of "what does Sam Smith identify as" has a clear and powerful answer: Sam Smith is non-binary. This identity is central to their public persona and has been a profound source of inspiration for fans globally, marking a significant milestone in their journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

As of December 15, 2025, Sam Smith exclusively uses the pronouns they/them, a request they made public in 2019 to reflect their true self after a "lifetime of being at war with my gender." Their openness about being non-binary and genderqueer continues to shape their art and advocacy, providing a crucial voice for the LGBTQ+ community.

Sam Smith: Full Biography and Profile

Samuel Frederick Smith, known professionally as Sam Smith, is an English singer and songwriter whose soulful voice and emotionally resonant lyrics have earned them global stardom and multiple prestigious awards.

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• Full Name: Samuel Frederick Smith
• Date of Birth: May 19, 1992
• Place of Birth: London, England
• Career Start: Rose to prominence in 2012 after featuring on Disclosure’s hit single "Latch."
• Debut Album: In the Lonely Hour (2014)
• Major Awards: Four Grammy Awards in 2015, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year, as well as an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for the James Bond theme "Writing's on the Wall."
• Gender Identity: Non-binary, Genderqueer
• Pronouns: They/Them
• Sexual Orientation: Gay
• Key Themes: Romantic love, heartbreak, body dysmorphia, and self-acceptance.

Embracing Non-Binary and Genderqueer Identity

Sam Smith’s public declaration of their gender identity was not a sudden decision but the culmination of years of personal exploration. They initially came out as gay in 2014, but their journey of understanding their gender was separate and ongoing.

In 2019, Smith began to speak openly about feeling they did not fit neatly into the traditional male or female categories, revealing they were non-binary and genderqueer. They explained that non-binary and genderqueer, for them, meant they do not identify in a gender but are simply "just you."

This revelation was a monumental step toward self-acceptance. Smith described the internal conflict, stating they had been "at war with my gender" for a lifetime before deciding to "embrace myself for who I am, inside and out." This personal freedom has been credited with unlocking new levels of creativity and authenticity in their music and performances.

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The Significance of the They/Them Pronoun Shift

A crucial part of Sam Smith's public identity is their request to be addressed using they/them pronouns. This is more than a linguistic preference; it is a fundamental aspect of their identity and a sign of respect for their truth.

The use of they/them pronouns signifies that Smith does not identify as a man (he/him) or a woman (she/her). While some older articles may still use incorrect pronouns from before their public announcement, the correct and current usage is consistently they/them. This choice aligns them with a growing number of public figures who are normalizing the use of gender-neutral pronouns, helping to educate the public and validate the experiences of the wider non-binary community.

Their openness has encouraged a broader conversation about gender fluidity and the importance of respecting people's chosen terminology. This shift has had a tangible impact, with media outlets and fans making a concerted effort to use the correct language, demonstrating allyship and inclusivity.

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The Intersection of Identity: Gender, Sexuality, and Art

Sam Smith’s journey is a powerful example of how gender identity and sexual orientation are distinct but interconnected parts of a person's life. While they identify as non-binary (gender identity), they also identify as gay (sexual orientation).

Their music has always been deeply personal, often exploring themes of unrequited love and heartbreak, particularly in their early works like *In the Lonely Hour*. However, since embracing their genderqueer identity, their artistic expression has become noticeably more flamboyant, boundary-pushing, and celebratory.

The visual aesthetics of their recent work, including their album *Gloria* and the global hit "Unholy," have become a vibrant platform for expressing their authentic self. They have spoken about how shedding the constraints of a binary gender identity has freed them from the pressure of traditional male performance, allowing them to experiment with fashion, makeup, and theatricality. This artistic evolution is a direct reflection of their personal liberation.

Smith has also been candid about their struggle with body dysmorphia, linking it directly to their internal conflict with gender. By addressing their non-binary identity, they found a path to greater self-acceptance, which in turn helped them to confront their body image issues. This vulnerability has resonated deeply with fans facing similar struggles, solidifying their role as an important advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ visibility.

Sam Smith's Lasting Impact on Non-Binary Visibility

The visibility of a major global artist like Sam Smith identifying as non-binary has an immense cultural impact. Their willingness to share their truth helps to normalize non-binary identities in mainstream culture, moving the conversation beyond academic or niche circles.

By using their platform—which includes winning multiple Grammy Awards, performing on global stages, and dominating streaming charts—Smith provides a powerful, high-profile reference point for what it means to be non-binary. This visibility is vital for young people who are questioning their own identity, offering them a relatable figure and a sense of hope.

In interviews, Smith has consistently used their voice to educate and encourage empathy. They have discussed the relief and clarity that came with learning the word "non-binary," a term that finally articulated their internal experience. Their ongoing journey serves as a powerful reminder that identity is a personal, evolving, and deeply authentic process, one that deserves respect and recognition from everyone.