10 legendary gay icons and how they earned their titles

LAS VEGAS, NV – MAY 21: Actress/singer Cher performs onstage during the 2017 Billboard Music Awards at T-Mobile Arena on May 21, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The gay community has always supported fierce, outspoken women and men. These stars proved what it takes though to become a true gay icon.

The term “gay icon” is thrown around a lot lately, at least by members of the gay community. As soon as a pop star releases a dance single or pulls off some sickening stunt on stage, somebody is quick to pull the “gay icon” card. While there are many ways of earning that title, it usually involves years of dedication to the community that supported you, and proving that you care about them as much as they care about you.

Some of these stars dared to be different and let their freak flag fly, even when it meant they might be shunned. Some of them stood by the gay community in times of need, when others treated them like lepers. They put their careers at risk in order to support the community, and that’s dedication.

There is a whole new generation of gay icons, with the likes of Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, and even Ariana Grande all having a huge gay following who they’re so supportive of. But it’s important to know your history, and these trailblazers were supporting the gay community at a time when not many people were.