The Exact Date And Untold Story: 5 Things You Didn't Know About When Lance Bass Came Out

The exact date Lance Bass publicly came out as gay was July 26, 2006, when he graced the cover of *People* magazine with the headline "I'm Gay." This landmark announcement, which took place nearly two decades ago, was a seismic event in pop culture, not just because he was a member of the iconic boy band *NSYNC*, but because it shattered the carefully constructed facade of a closeted celebrity during the height of a major music career. As of late 2025, Bass is an open book, a successful entrepreneur, a devoted husband to Michael Turchin, and a father to twins, but the journey to that 2006 cover was fraught with years of secrecy and fear.

The decision to finally share his truth with the world in the summer of 2006 was not a spontaneous one; it was the culmination of mounting pressure, a desire for authenticity, and a dramatic close call with a reporter that forced his hand. His story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices and risks many celebrities faced—and still face—when choosing between their career and their true self. The following details explore the biography, the hidden struggles, and the incredible life he has built since that pivotal day.

Complete Biography and Profile of James Lance Bass

James Lance Bass, known simply as Lance Bass, has transitioned from a global pop star into a successful multi-hyphenate, encompassing roles as a producer, actor, author, and entrepreneur. His life has been defined by ambition, from the stage to the potential for space travel.

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• Full Name: James Lance Bass
• Date of Birth: May 4, 1979
• Age (as of late 2025): 46
• Hometown: Laurel, Mississippi, U.S.
• Parents: Jim Bass and Diane Bass
• Sibling: Stacy Bass (Older Sister)
• Spouse: Michael Turchin (Married December 20, 2014)
• Children: Twins Alexander James and Violet Betty (Born October 13, 2021)
• Known For: Bass singer for the boy band *NSYNC* (1995–2002, with recent reunions), Space Tourism Aspirant, LGBTQ+ Advocate, TV Host/Producer.
• Career Highlights: Over 70 million records sold with *NSYNC*, starring in films like *On the Line*, and launching multiple production companies.

The Exact Moment Lance Bass Was Forced to Come Out

The public revelation in July 2006 was not entirely by choice, but rather a strategic move to preempt a forced outing. For years, Bass had lived a double life, maintaining a series of high-profile relationships with women to protect his image and, crucially, the integrity of *NSYNC*. He has spoken openly about the immense pressure he felt, believing that revealing his sexuality would be a "career killer" for both himself and the band.

The catalyst for his public announcement came when a reporter reportedly overheard a private conversation he was having while waiting in line at a gay bar. Realizing that the truth was about to be exposed without his control, Bass made the difficult decision to seize the narrative. He contacted *People* magazine, leading to the now-famous cover story. The article provided him with the platform to declare, "I'm gay," on his own terms, allowing him to finally live authentically after years of secrecy.

This decision was a massive relief, but not without immediate professional consequences. Shortly after the announcement, a network television show he was scheduled to appear in was abruptly shut down, a clear sign of the homophobia still prevalent in the entertainment industry at the time.

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The Hidden Struggle: Why He Waited Until 2006

The primary reason Lance Bass kept his sexuality a secret during the peak of *NSYNC*'s fame was a deep-seated fear that his truth would dismantle the successful boy band. The pop music industry in the late 1990s and early 2000s operated on a strict, heteronormative fantasy, where the members were marketed as desirable, available bachelors for their predominantly female fanbase.

• Protecting the Band's Image: Bass genuinely believed that if he came out, the band's carefully crafted image would collapse, potentially leading to the premature end of *NSYNC*.
• Internalized Homophobia: Like many young people struggling with their identity, he experienced a form of internalized homophobia and felt a profound sense of isolation, especially while touring the world.
• Lack of Role Models: He noted that there were very few, if any, examples of major pop stars coming out as gay during their prime, making his potential move feel like an unprecedented and terrifying risk.

His bandmates, including Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Joey Fatone, and Chris Kirkpatrick, were reportedly among the first people he confided in, and they were supportive. However, the business side of the music industry was less forgiving, which is why he maintained the "quiet member" persona while the band was active.

Life After the Cover: Marriage, Family, and Current Projects (2025 Update)

Since his public coming out, Lance Bass has embraced his role as an LGBTQ+ icon, advocate, and family man. His life today is a testament to the power of living an authentic life.

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A Devoted Family Man

Bass married painter and actor Michael Turchin in 2014, making history with a wedding that was televised as a special on E!, titled *Lance Loves Michael: The Lance Bass Wedding*. They became one of the first same-sex couples to have their wedding broadcast on American television, further cementing their role as visibility leaders.

The couple welcomed their twins, a son and a daughter, on October 13, 2021, via surrogate. The children were named Alexander James and Violet Betty. Bass frequently shares updates about his life as a father, showcasing the joy and chaos of raising three-year-old twins in late 2024 and early 2025.

Entrepreneur and Media Personality

Bass has successfully transitioned his career beyond pop music, becoming a prolific entrepreneur and media personality. His recent projects showcase his diverse interests:

• *Unicorn Hunters*: He currently serves as a judge on the popular YouTube business show *Unicorn Hunters*, which focuses on finding and funding billion-dollar ideas.
• *NSYNC* Reunion Speculation: Following the group's surprise appearance and new song for the *Trolls Band Together* movie, Bass has been a key source for teasing "bigger plans" and a potential full tour or reunion in 2025, keeping the hopes of millions of fans alive.
• New Pride Projects: In 2024 and 2025, he has been involved in new projects for Pride Month, including collaborations with other boyband members like Nick Carter (Backstreet Boys) and Joey Fatone (*NSYNC*), continuing his advocacy work through entertainment.

From the terrifying moment he was nearly outed in 2006 to his current status as a happily married father and thriving entrepreneur, Lance Bass's story is one of profound personal growth and cultural impact. His decision to declare "I'm Gay" on a magazine cover remains a watershed moment for celebrity authenticity and LGBTQ+ visibility in the 21st century.