“I am gay”: Adam talks openly about his sexuality

Q – Why did you choose not to address your sexuality on the show?

I think the photos did a lot of the talking for me. After seeing those pictures, if you don’t understand what my sexuality is, I think you need to go back to the drawing board and learn about what boys kissing boys means.

I am gay, and I am very comfortable with it. I have been for a long time. I think it’s funny that people are like, “He’s been hiding it”. I’ve always been out. I avoided talking about [my sexuality] on Idol, but I never lied about it and I never denied it, because that would go against my principles. I chose to keep my private life a little more private while I was on this show. And that’s a choice. I reserve the right to talk about my own sexuality. I wasn’t ready to address everything that I’d ever done and reveal the most intimate details of my personality [on the show] because I was just getting used to being a figure of the public eye. I feel like, “Okay, now people see me as an entertainer, so now I’m willing to let them in a little bit more on my personal life”. It feels really good now to just state the fact and just move forward, [so that people don't] keep wondering about, “What does he do?” you know, “With whom?”

I was a little worried about the pictures affecting my chances in the competition when they first came out. I don’t think they did. I think I got to the end of the competition for a reason. I think people are ready now in this time and in this age to overlook it. The show is about finding great singers, it’s not about, like, who has the moral high ground, it is about finding the best singer. It’s not a pageant.

Q – Will being gay hurt your career?

A – I’m sure that there are some people that are turned off by it. And to be frank, those aren’t the kind of people I want to sing to anyway. I want to sing to people who are open-minded and accept music. It’s not about my lifestyle; that just happens to be my sexual preference, it doesn’t mean that it’s going to affect the type of music that I’m going to make or the type of performer that I am. I would hope that people are in a more progressive mindset right now, I know that our country as a whole is in a more progressive place than it was when the show started 8 years ago. I think that if you like it you like it, and if you don’t, well, there’s nothing I can do to control it. [interview found here].

On the media interest in his sexuality:

It’s surprising because I don’t think twice about my sexuality. I’ve been living this way for the whole time that I’ve been living in L.A, for the past eight years. It’s a funny reminder that not everyone is as comfortable with it as I am.

On the moment when Adam came out to his mother:

My brother was involved in this speech and debate tournament and we were on our way home. There had been this monologue that had been performed about a young man coming out of the closet, and his parents had rejected him and kicked him out of the house because of it. And that fictional guy got into a lot of trouble and got beaten up & on drugs, and all the things that might happen if your family system doesn’t support you. 

That resonated with my Mom. In the car on the way home Mom looked over at me and she was like, ‘So, do you have a girlfriend?’ And I said, ‘No’, and she said, ‘Do you want one?’ I was like, ‘Mmmm, no’. She said, ‘Well, do you want to have a boyfriend?’ And I went, ‘That could be nice’. She was like, ‘Oh, I’ve always known’. And I was like, “Well, why didn’t you ask me sooner?” And she was like, “I didn’t want to push you!” And we connected on it and I opened up and it was a really, really good moment. From then on out I felt like I was really being myself with my family.

I think it’s important to just be open; it’s very liberating. Lacking secrets really helps growth. If you keep a bunch of secrets and skeletons in your closet you’re not going to grow and you’re not going to grow and you’re not going to be the best person you can be. So just wear it proudly and let your colors shine. I don’t understand why people are so afraid.

“I don’t want to the poster boy for some cause”:

I think some viewers at home wanted me to win for their own reasons because they were rooting for something and they attached a lot of social pressure onto, “What does it mean if this guy wins?” It’s not about that, guys; it’s about singing. I don’t want to be [the poster boy for some cause]. I have my own personal beliefs that I feel very strongly about. But I don’t know, at this point in my life, if this is a platform for that, I think this is more about music. [video of interview found here].

“I am proud of my sexuality”:

I am proud of my sexuality. I embrace it.

“I was scared” of my sexuality during school:

“[As a kid] I loved singing and dancing and playing dress-up and it’s really not a big surprise. I had like an odd fascination with glitter, so there you go. See, now I’m stereotyping myself. Great.”

In middle school, “I started to realize I wasn’t like every other boy, and I was just in my own head, tripping myself out”. PE classes stoked his anxiety, “I didn’t want to be naked and vulnerable. I was scared of my sexuality.” Even after he came out to his mother, “I didn’t feel comfortable in my own skin. I didn’t feel sexy.”

“When you are a young man or woman, and you are in the closet, chances are that you might not be experiencing things that other kids in high school are experiencing. I mean, in high school it’s the first time that you have your first date, and your first love, and your first kiss. I didn’t have any of that”.

Lambert says he’s “finally checked in to my self-worth for the first time in my life, and the fact that it has coincided with ‘Idol’ is so sweet.” Sure, he still has his self doubts, but, as he put it, “for the most part, when I look in the mirror now, I finally see somebody who can do something cool.”

Kris talks about Adam coming out in Rolling Stone:

I think he’s happier that he can be himself and it’s nice. Adam is who he is and he’s not afraid. I support him in whatever he does.

Kris:”It’s not so much what you believe in, it’s who you are”:

I don’t know why beliefs have to mess up friendships and mess up people’s ideas about everyone else. People are people, it’s not so much what you believe in, it’s who you are. It was never a problem with us. He was Jewish. It wasn’t about religion. I wasn’t going to judge him for, like, not being a Christian. He’s a great guy, I mean, seriously, like, one of the best guys I’ve known. 

They made the guyliner vs. the guy next door thing, and we were like, why can’t Adam be the guy next door? We hated it. We really wanted it to be about the music. There are a lot of things about me and Adam that are the same.

We were friends from the very beginning. People were confused, “how are someone like you, and him, really good friends?” It wasn’t so much flack, it was just, people were weirded out by it. I wasn’t weirded out about it. Neither was he.

 [Watch full interview with Kris here].

* * * * * *

“Is it that deep?” Adam talks about the ‘Culture War’

Adam’s message to voters (pre-Finale):

- “This is a singing competition & not a church thing. I would hope that people vote based on what they like to hear, you know. It doesn’t have anything to do with your religious background, your color, your gender. It doesn’t have anything to do with that, it’s about your music. So it’s really important to keep that in mind.” [Adam's pre-finale press conference message to voters].

* * * * * * * * * *

After the Finale:

* * * * * * *

Q - Adam, so now all the blogs are going to be saying, he didn’t win because he was gay, or because he wasn’t gay, what are your thoughts?

A -  [Laughs]. Is that what they’re going to say? We’ll see. Blogs have a lot of opinions, don’t they? I think that Kris won because he’s a great artist, you know? And I was happy to be a runner-up to that.

* * * * *

Q – Do you think media speculation over your sexuality affected the voting?

Adam – Uh, you know, probably.

* * * * *

 When all that social projection started being attached to me I was like, is it that deep? I thought we were just singing, I thought this was just a singing competition. [Idolatry interview with Slezak].

I can see why people would see it as a red state blue state kind of thing. Conservative versus liberal kind of thing but I just want to believe, I may just be being an idealist, but I want to believe that its more about the music which is not always the case. I think that it shouldn’t matter what your religious beliefs are for instance, or your gender or anything else should come into play. But it’s a reality show and that’s what it does. I wish it didn’t but it kind of does. [Rolling Stone article].

“It’s surprising [the media obsession], because I don’t think twice about my sexuality. I’ve been living this way for the whole time that I’ve been living in L.A, for the past eight years. It’s a funny reminder that not everyone is as comfortable with it as I am.”

 * * * * *

Q – Do you think being gay will hurt your career?

A - I don’t know. I’m sure that there are some people that are turned off by it. And to be frank, those aren’t the kind of people I want to sing to anyway. I want to sing to people who are open-minded and accept music. It’s not about my lifestyle; that just happens to be my sexual preference, it doesn’t mean that it’s going to affect the type of music that I’m going to make or the type of performer that I am. I would hope that people are in a more progressive mindset right now, I know that our country as a whole is in a more progressive place than it was when the show started 8 years ago. I think that if you like it you like it, and if you don’t, well, there’s nothing I can do to control it.

* * * * * * *

I was a little worried about [the kissing-a-man pictures affecting my chances in the competition] when they first came out. I don’t think they did. I think I got to the end of the competition for a reason. I think people are ready now in this time and in this age to overlook it. The show is about finding great singers, it’s not about, like, who has the moral high ground, it is about finding the best singer. It’s not a pageant.

* * * * * *

I am an entertainer, and who I am and what I do in my personal life is a separate thing. It shouldn’t matter, except it does. It’s really confusing.

* * * * * *

[During the first few weeks post-Finale] an American Idol chauffeur told Adam that he had no problem with him, “because at least you’re not girly”. Adam Lambert: “Man, it’s so ignorant. Why can’t some men have strong feminine sides? Does that make them less of a man? I don’t know why our society has so much emphasis on masculinity and femininity – it’s really gross. I don’t think you’re truly sexy until you don’t care about that”. [Rolling Stone article].

* * * * *

Adam & Kris: Michael Jackson Tribute

Adam 

He was a risk-taker, he was really inventive and he wanted to do things that no one had ever done, and I admire that a lot. I grew up watching Michael Jackson, I know that Kris did too, huge influence. I remember dancing to Beat It in the living room with my flashlight. Musically, his voice is so distinct. He wore really imaginative costumes, and created imagery that no one else was creating. 

He kind of defied sexuality and race, in many ways. He didn’t go one way or another, he kind of stayed in the centre of all of it, which I found  very, very intrigueing. Kind of appealing to everybody. He will be remembered for inspiring countless other artists. Michael was a genius at inventing himself, inventing music, inventing imagery.

I performed [Black or White] around the time that the pictures of my ex-boyfriend and I kissing came out, and I thought that the lyrics fit the situation. They also related to the change that the country was going through, with Obama. I wanted to sing something that I could believe in, at that moment. When I chose [Michael Jackson's] Black or White I knew that it had the original intent.. and then the other civil rights issues I thought, you know, people would figure that out if they were savvy enough.

[Adam talks about his other symbolic songs in this post]

Kris 

If you were a music fan, you like Michael Jackson. Michael Jackson’s music was the first music that I fell in love with. His music means so much to me. My first album was his ‘Danger’ album; I had all of his albums. I knew pretty much every MJ song. It’s weird actually, my parents, they loved that I was into his music. Michael Jackson has changed music completely since he started. I think that it’s evident in almost everything.

[20/20 Michael Jackson Tribute interview: video 1 - video 2]

Kris’ crush on Adam: “Man crushes are IN”

Kris & Adam embrace their ‘bromance’:

Adam’s crush on Kris:

“I was like, ‘Oh, shit! They put me with the cute guy. Distracting! He was the one guy I found distracting in the whole group on the show: nice, nonchalant, pretty, and totally my type – except that he’s got a wife. I mean, he’s open-minded and liberal, but he’s definitely 100% straight.” [Rolling Stone interview].

Q – You said you had a little crush on Kris.

A – He’s a cute guy, come on now. Him and his wife make a really cute couple; she’s a cool girl. And I’ve learnt a lot just by talking to them, about relationships and romance, and I think they are a great example; they are really, really precious.

Q – Did he know you had a crush on him before you told the Rolling Stone magazine?

A – Yeah, I just told him. I was like, “Mmhmm, yeah, all right Kris, yeah, you’re cute”. He’s a good-looking guy.

Q – And he said he was very flattered by it.

A – Kris is so well adjusted. That’s how everybody should be. Because, really, it’s not a big deal. You can find somebody attractive and it shouldn’t be scary. You know what I mean? It’s just a compliment. [Access Hollywood interview].

Kris responds:

- I’m flattered. And I think it’s hilarious.

-  He was so funny. He texted me that day, like, ‘I’m so embarrassed.’ I’m like, ‘No, are you serious? Don’t be embarrassed. I think that’s hilarious.’ My wife, she’s so funny. She was like, ‘Tell Adam I have a crush on him.’

 - That was funny, I read it and I laughed. He texted me afterwards, he was like, “Oh, I’m so embarrassed”. I said, “Adam, you’re not embarrassed about anything”. So it was really funny.

Kris’ crush on Adam:

Q – what did Adam’s fans send you as a birthday present?

K – They gave me a couple of feathers. They wanted me to glam up my look a little bit… which I really appreciate, thanks. They also gave me a headphone splitter, so that me and Adam can listen to music after the shows and cuddle.

A – They’re clearly misinterpreting our friendship. [Kris slips his arm around Adam’s shoulder; Adam cracks up].

A – A crush is a very non-threatening thing, I think.

K – Yeah. I have a crush on Adam. Can I say that? I have a crush on you, Adam.

 A – They’ll run with that. Now everything…

 K – Now I’m screwed.

 A – Yeah, there you go.

K – Man crushes are in. Bromances are in.

 

 Nevertheless, Kris supports Adam’s relationship with Drake:

 ”I think he’s happier that he can be himself [after the end of Idol & the Rolling Stone interview] and it’s nice. Adam is who he is and he’s not afraid. I support him in whatever he does… They’re a cool combination because they are so different.  Drake’s from Louisiana and Adam’s from LA. [Drake LaBry] is a reall nice guy.” [People.com].

Adam talks about the Kradam fan-fiction:

Q – Your Bromance with Kris has taken on a life of its own: There’s fan fiction involving you two…

A – Oh really?

Q - Did you not know about that?

A –  (laughing) No I didn’t.

Q – Oh my god. Adam.

A - I kind of want to read it.

Q - It’s kind of… hot. I’m really serious, Adam, it’s so good.

A - We should show it to his wife. That’s who we should have read it.

 [Best Week Ever interview with Michelle].

Adam & Danny Gokey discussed religion

Adam & Danny discussed religion: In the Rolling Stone cover article Adam says he discussed religion with Danny a few times, but “Danny is by the book, and the book is The Word. And I respect that. Just don’t try to push it on me, and we’re cool.” [click here to see the full article].

Danny talks about nail-polish: He got me to put nail polish on one of my fingers. And he got Kris to wear nail-polish. Adam is the daring person. So many people took him as this one [type of] person, but I think they put him out too far as the bad boy. He’s a super nice guy; you know, he’s a real person. The image he was trying to portray is that, “Listen, it’s okay for change in our culture”.  But I think people were automatically like, “He’s like this; don’t vote for him because of this”. I’m like, “You’ve got to get over it, you know? Get over it. You don’t know him like I know him.” [Idolatry video].

Danny talks about Adam not winning - Adam is genuinely happy, for anyone. I’ve learnt something about Adam, that he’s a really nice guy. He’s a genuine guy. Adam responds  [after listening to Danny's comment on tape] - Aww, that’s very cool. Danny and I connected, everybody in the house connected. No matter what our backgrounds were, we found a way to click.

Adam talks about Danny: He’s quite the thinker. And we had, we just, we hit it off right away. [Contestants talk about Danny Gokey video].

‘The Big Question’: Adam’s witty & honest comments about his sexuality

You know what, I have nothing to hide. I am who I am. And this is about singing… nothing else [Adam's first public response on Idol to 'the question', at the top 13 party, after photos of Adam kissing a man had surfaced on the internet].

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

A  TMZ.com reporter ambushed Adam during the competition: 

Q – So, you could be the first…

Adam – [smiling] The first what? [Awkward silence]. Friend of… you?

* * * * * * * * * * *

Q – I want to just get this question out of the way first, something that’s been dangling a bit over you for the whole season: Would you like to put to rest all the speculation about your sexuality?
A  – It’s not dangling over my head. [Laughing] It may be dangling over yours, but it’s not over mine. Yeah, I think speculation keeps things really interesting. [EW article ].

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Q [female reporter] – Now that Idol is over, will you clear up the question about your sexuality?

A – Keeping everyone curious is kind of interesting, if you know what I mean. I think that time will tell… It’s really no-ones business, to be honest with you.

Q – We’re bi-curious.

A – Oh, well you’re helping me with that!

[an exchange just hours after the Finale result]

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Q – What has been the strangest question you’ve been asked now that the show is over? Have there been ridiculously overt roundabout ways to get at you about the ‘elephant in the room’, the topic?

A – They’ve been pretty straightforward, actually. To which I go, “Ha, mrmp”. Yeah. So. That elephant, man, it’s pink, isn’t it?

[TV Guide exit interview several days after the Finale result].

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Q – Who will take the top bunk on the American Idol tour bus?
Kris – Um, I don’t, I don’t care.
Adam – I like the top. [Kris gives Adam a look; they crack up]. Sorry. That’s inappropriate.
K – [Still smiling]. That was good. That was good.

[US magazine interview]

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Q – I’m here with an exclusive interview with American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert who has agreed to answer the question that is on everyone’s mind.

A – That’s right.

Q – The question that all of America has been dying to know the answer to for months.

A – Yep.

Q – The question that no one else has been able to get Adam Lambert to definitively answer.

A – You’ve got it, Paul. And you know I’m really excited to finally address this issue once and for all.

Q –  All right, here we go. Adam Lambert, are you… informed about the transition from analogue to digital television?

A – Yes Paul, I am. America, on June 12^th the Federal Communications Commission will require all television stations to broadcast in digital rather than analogue signals. What this means for you… if you live in Pennsylvania you can pick up you broadcasting transmission box at… and just hook up your HTMI cables and bam! You’re all set for the digital transition.

Q – Well that settles it! Adam Lambert, I can’t imagine there is any other question people could possibly want you to answer.

A – Me neither! [Awkward silence as Adam & Paul smile into the camera].

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Q – Did you see the Bill O’Reilly segment about you?

A – I did. I did.

[picture of Adam kissing a man; voice-over of O'Reilly: “On the internet there are embarrassing pictures of Mr. Lambert”]

A – They censored it! It was censored

Q – It was [laughs].

A – I was like, is that indecent?

Q – They called them embarrassing pictures. I was like, what? Embarrassing to who?

A – I wasn’t embarrassed. I guess he was.

Q – Embarrassing to Bill O’Reilly.

A – Yeah, Bill was embarrassed.

[Adam on Idolatry with Michael Slezak].

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Adam =   “It’s surprising [the media obsession], because I don’t think twice about my sexuality. I’ve been living this way for the whole time that I’ve been living in L.A, for the past eight years. It’s a funny reminder that not everyone is as comfortable with it as I am.”

 “I am gay, and I am very comfortable with it. I have been for a long time. I think it’s funny that people are like, “He’s been hiding it”. I’ve always been out. I just chose to avoid it [during the competition]. I wasn’t ready to address everything that I’d ever done and reveal the most intimate details of my personality because I was just getting used to being a figure of the public eye. And I feel like, “Okay, now people see me as an entertainer, and now I’m willing to let them in a little bit more on my personal life”. It feels really good [now that I’ve addressed my sexuality to the media] to just state the fact and just move forward, [so that people don't] keep wondering about, “What does he do?” you know, “With whom?”

 ”[As a kid] I loved singing and dancing and playing dress-up and it’s really not a big surprise. I had like an odd fascination with glitter, so there you go. See, now I’m stereotyping myself. Great.” [Laughs].

 “When you are a young man or woman, and you are in the closet, chances are that you might not be experiencing things that other kids in high school are experiencing. I mean, in high school it’s the first time that you have your first date, and your first love, and your first kiss. I didn’t have any of that”.

* * * * * * * *

When Adam came out to his Mother:

“We were driving home from this event and [Mom] looked over at me and she was like, ‘So, do you have a girlfriend?’ And I said, ‘No’, and she said, ‘Do you want one?’ I was like, ‘Mmmm, no’. She said, ‘Well, do you want to have a boyfriend?’ And I went, ‘That could be nice’. She was like, ‘Oh, I’ve always known’. And I was like, “Well, why didn’t you ask me sooner?” And she was like, “I didn’t want to push you!” [Adam's mom: "all of a sudden the gates opened, and he couldn’t stop asking me questions, ‘When did you know? How old was I? What are the things that you noticed?’ It felt really good because there were no barriers.”].

* * * * * *

Adam supports Gay Marriage:

“This civil rights movement is near to my heart, and it felt really good to sing [A Change is Gonna Come]. I’m not asking to get married in your church, but you don’t have any right to tell me I can’t do it”. BUT “I’m trying to be a singer, not a civil rights leader,” Adam says.

* * * * * * * *

Adam talks about Discrimination & Stereotyping:

Discrimination, though usually minor, is a fact of his life. The other day an American Idol chauffeur told him that he had no problem with him, “because at least you’re not girly”. Lambert shudders. “Man, it’s so ignorant. Why can’t some men have strong feminine sides? Does that make them less of a man? I don’t know why our society has so much emphasis on masculinity and femininity – it’s really gross. I don’t think you’re truly sexy until you don’t care about that”. He is uncomfortable with some of the ways that gay culture has evolved. “Middle America thinks that what I am is gay, but here in Hollywood, gay guys are all about trying to fit in – they’re obsessed with looking and acting hetero. Clay Aiken’s gay, and I’m gay, but we couldn’t be more different.”

* * * * * * * *

Getting naked in PE class was nerve-wracking:

In middle school he started feeling awkward around his classmates, “I started to realize I wasn’t like every other boy, and I was just in my own head, tripping myself out”. PE classes stoked his anxiety, “I didn’t want to be naked and vulnerable. I was scared of my sexuality.”

* * * * * *

Adam discussed religion with Gokey:

Adam says he discussed religion with Danny a few times, but “Danny is by the book, and the book is The Word. And I respect that. Just don’t try to push it on me, and we’re cool.”

* * * * * * *

Adam on wearing drag: “That’s not me”

“I’ve only dressed in drag three or four times – and of course I took pictures, because I looked amazing – but I don’t tuck and I don’t wear breasts, that’s not me. Sucking my boy’s face? Yes, that I will own,” he joked.The photos were never directly addressed by Lambert until now because he was afraid they’d “be so sensationalized that it would overshadow what I was there to do, which was sing … It shouldn’t matter. (sighs) Except it does. (shaking head) It’s really confusing.”

* * * * * * *

Adam talks about the kissing-a-man photos that came out when he was on Idol

As for the scandal over photos of Lambert in drag that surfaced on the Internet in March, he says, he forgot to remove photos from his profile on a social network for the Burning Man festival in Nevada. He was worried that people would think the drag ensemble was typical of him. “I’ve only dressed in drag three or four times. … I don’t tuck and wear breasts, that’s not me. Going into Idol, I assumed, `OK, people are going to talk,”‘ he says. “I mean, I’ve been living in Los Angeles for eight years as a gay man, I’ve been at clubs making out with somebody in the corner. But photographic evidence? Didn’t count on that. Wasn’t ready for that.”

* * * * *

Adam talks about Kris: “Shit, they put me with the cute guy. Distracting!”

“I was like, `Oh, shit, they put me with the cute guy,”‘ Lambert says. “Distracting! He’s the one guy that I found attractive in the whole group on the show: nice, nonchalant, pretty and totally my type — except that he has a wife. I mean, he’s open-minded and liberal, but he’s definitely 100 percent straight.” [Kris responded to People magazine: "I'm flattered. And I think it's hilarious"].

* * * * * *

Kris talks about Adam’s boyfriend (LaBry):

 “I think he’s happier that he can be himself and it’s nice. Adam is who he is and he’s not afraid. I support him in whatever he does.” Allen says of Lambert, 27, stepping out with his friend Drake LaBry.” Kris Allen calls Lambert and LaBry’s friendship a “cool combination,” because they’re so different. “Drake’s from Louisiana and Adam is from L.A.,” he says. “But they click well and they’re really nice together.” Kris says he has met LaBry, and, “he’s a really nice guy.”

Kris talks about Adam

Being friends with Adam:

He and I are really different, but there are lots of ways that we’re the same. We care about each other a lot, and we’ve gone through this whole thing with a really, really good friendship. We’re going to be friends for life. 

We love each other & we have a great friendship. I’m really proud of him & I think that he deserves this [win] just as much as I do.

He’s the most gifted performer that’s ever been on this show and I love him to death.

For me, I feel like I relate to a lot of people. And [me & Adam] got to be roommates. It was just like this closeness, you know? I don’t know what happened. I think we just felt each other’s energy, and it was nice. It just became this really good friendship. Yeah, I adore the guy. I think he’s a really great guy. I’m proud of him.

The whole thing about Adam is that he’s a really good friend of mine. I actually thought that he was going to win; it was a shock to me. But he was telling me that I deserved this, and I was telling him that he deserved this, so we were shooting it back at each other.

The  reason behind the nail-polish: There was this tabloid thing that came out about me and Adam, about how we don’t get along because I’m this conservative kid from Arkansas and he’s this L.A. liberal guy. Which, I could be nothing less than conservative. I’m just from Arkansas. And they were like, “He’s cranky because he misses his wife and Adam’s nail polish is all over the place and they can’t get along.” And we were like, “That’s so stupid. That’s the stupidest thing.” We just didn’t want people to think that we didn’t get along. Because we’re really great, great friends.

Rooming with Adam: Right before we went to bed we’d sit around and talk about the competition, talk about our pasts. We really got to know each other. He’s very real. He says exactly how he feels. We both had a lot of confidence in ourselves, and we said, we can’t compare… We had a great time rooming together! We talked a lot before we’d go to bed. Sometimes I’d fall asleep, you know, I’d hit the bed, I’d be asleep, while Adam was still talking. I would say that Adam is the messier one, but he’s got more stuff than I do! I’ve got like 2 things; Adam has 200. Lots of shoes, lots of make-up, nail polish, hair products. Sharing a bathroom with Adam is like totally different. He’s got a lot of stuff, and I don’t. But the bathrooms plenty big enough where it can fit all of his stuff so it all works.

On the Finale: Before the whole day even started, we were like “this does not matter,” because, like, we both knew that no matter what happens he’s going to be a huge star, he’s going to be a mega star. He’s Adam Lambert, everyone knows who Adam Lambert is. And he would say the same about me, he feels like I would be a very successful artist and musician. So, we love each other & we have a great friendship. I’m really proud of him & I think that he deserves this [win] just as much as I do.

* * * * * * * * * *

Q – Who is the camp counselor? [the top 10 contestants point to Adam]

Kris – Adam always has words of wisdom. He’s just a great guy.

* * * * * * * * * *

Q – You and Adam Lambert, you guys were like best – best buddies?

K – Yeah, we were best – best friends, and, uh…

Q – Give us a secret. [Kris laughs]. I’m just kidding.

K – He talks a lot.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Adam’s talent:

He deserves this just as much as I do. He’s an amazing, amazing performer; gifted, gifted guy, and great – just, like, really just an amazing guy. It was fun doing this with him, it really was.

Adam’s incredible, incredible, out of this world. We’ve become amazing friends & I respect who he is & what he does. Everything that he is it’s just mind-blowing, and he’s probably one of the best Idols we’ve ever had on stage.

He’s an amazing performer, an amazing singer, and just an amazing person. I really like the guy.

Adam deserves this just as much as I do. He’s been very, very consistent. You know, one of the most original people who’ve ever been on this show, one of the most gifted people who’ve ever been on this show.

* * * * * * * * *

Q – What did you and Adam say to each other in the moment after the winner was announced?

K – He told me that I deserved it. And I shot it right back at him, because I think he does. He’s the most gifted performer that’s ever been on this show and I love him to death, and give it up for Adam! [Kris claps & audience cheers]

[Kris Allen Exit Interview].

* * * * * * * *

Q – Simon seemed to be pro-Adam a whole lot of the time. What was your thought on that?

Kris – I was pro-Adam most of the time. Like, I think he’s done amazing. He’s done things on this show that have never been done, and I’m going to be one of the first people to buy his CD. Maybe he’ll lend it to me.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Q – I have to be straight up front, I though Adam should have been the winner, but I think that the way you’ve handled it since the announcement that you are the winner has been incredible. You’re a class act.

K – Thank you, so much.  Adam is a really good friend of mine. He was telling me that I deserved this, and I was telling him that he deserved this, so we were shooting it back at each other.

Q – Do you think that Adam is more talented than you?

K – No. Adam is an amazing singer, but Adam could not play an instrument to save his life right now.

Q – What keeps you grounded right now?

K – Everyone talking about Adam. 

Q – [Laughs] That is a great answer; ‘I’ll never have a big head until someone talks about me’.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Q – Kris, how did you feel about the love that Adam was getting during the season?

Kris – Oh, man, I thought he deserved it. You know, he’s amazing, I think he’s probably one of the most original, and one of the most, seriously one of the best singers that have ever been on American Idol.

Adam – [Bemused]. Stop being so nice!

Kris – I’m sorry. I’m sorry! What do you want me to say?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Adam talks about Kris

[link: Adam's brother Neil Lambert loves Kris too].

Being friends with Kris:

[Kris] is genuinely a really, really good person with a kind, open heart. I think he’s an incredible artist, he’s a really deserving guy, and he’s got an incredible heart.

He’s a really open-minded, good person. He’s got a great view of the world. We share a lot of philosophies on the world, even though we have different backgrounds. He’s just a good guy, you know? I’m so happy for him [winning Idol]. He deserves it. He’s so talented, and he’s a good person. He is a really good person, who has proven time and time again that he has a great spirit and a great heart. I’m really, really happy for him.

On the Finale:  During the day we had some moments where we looked at each other and we were like, ‘What do you thinks going to happen?’ It was really cool because we both at various times just stopped and looked at each other and meant, ‘you know what, whatever happens, you’re cool in my book, and I’ll be your friend for life, and you deserve it’. So it felt great.

Kris’ wife, Katy:  You know, I’ve learned a lot about his relationship with his wife. She’s great. We’ve hung out. Kris & his wife have an inspiring relationship. Inspiring, really. They make me kind of go, “Okay”. That’s the real deal, that’s what I’m striving for.

Rooming with Kris: He is a fantastic guy, we’ve become very good friends. Super musically talented, really, really mellow, a nice guy. We’re still in the same wing with each other, we still share a bathroom, so we’re kind of like roommates still. It’s great, he’s got like 3 items on his (bathroom) counter and I’ve got 45. So it’s kind of, you know, we’re really different, but we get along really well.

Adam talks about the Kradam ‘feud’: One of the strange things I’ve read is that me and Kris Allen are in a feud. We both read it and just started laughing. You know, “A source close to the show says “the tension, you can cut it with a knife” and it just went on to speculate on and on, and it was entirely false. And we thought that was pretty funny.

Performing with Queen at the Finale: I couldn’t believe it. Like Brian May was brushing my shoulder, it was so surreal and not only was it a personal victory for me but also with Kris up there, I mean Kris and I became really good friends on this. We were roommates and looking at him across the way singing the lyric “We are the Champions” I felt very connected to him at that moment and it was the perfect symbolic ending to this whole journey and it really felt like it put the period at the end of the sentence. And for me at that point, whoever won at that point it didn’t matter after that, that was the winning moment for me, I don’t know, you know what I mean, I didn’t feel like I was competing with him at all.

Adam talks about Kris’ win:

The bottom of the line is that we were such different artists there was no way to directly compete, we were competing with ourselves, and it was up to America. I’m really happy that Kris won; I think he deserves it. Kris won because he’s a great artist, and I am happy to be a runner-up to that. I’m a huge supporter of Kris, he’s my friend, I think he’s immensely talented.

Kris is so talented, such a great musician, such a beautiful voice, and on top of it all he is genuinely a really, really good person with a kind, open heart. He deserves this. And I am not just saying that for TV, I’m not just saying that to be like the runner-up guy.  I really feel like he is a good person, and deserves it. And is a great role model and will make great music. I can’t wait to buy his CD.

* * * * * * * * * * *

“congratulations” & Kris’ huggle attack:

Adam [talking to reporter] - Kris and me were standing backstage before the show started tonight and we were like, ‘Can you believe this? This is huge!’ And he said to me, ‘Yeah, I’m just trying to make sure I can remember this later.’ Like, he was trying to stay present. He was, he was really supportive this whole time and I’m glad it was him & I in the end. [Kris surprises Adam from behind with a huggle attack].

Adam - Ahhh! I’m talking about you! [Grips Kris' shoulders, smiles & speaks quietly]: Are you tired? I’m exhausted. Are you like dizzy, dizzy tired? Congratulations. [Kris & Adam hug].

Kris - [Also speaks softly]: Congratulations to you!

* * * * * * * * * *

“I’ll be first in line to buy his album”:

Q - [pre-finale] – How do you size each other up as competitors?

A – We’re just very different types of artists. At this point, it’s not about out-singing each other, it’s not a direct competition. It’s about both of us staying really true to what we do well.

 

K – Yeah, totally. I do my thing & he does his thing, and it’s who America votes for.

 

A – And I’ll be first in line to buy his album.

 

K – And same here. Maybe you’ll give it to me, though, that would be really great.

A – [Laughs]. You don’t have to buy it; I’ll send you a copy.

[Pre-finale press conference].

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

“What’s Going On?” Kris & Adam discuss Kris’ song:

K – That Simon Fuller song, What’s Going On, is a huge song, and I think a lot of pressure is on that song, and so it didn’t come off the way that everyone thought it was going to, but, uh -

A – I really liked it.

K – Thanks.

A – I thought it was gorgeous.

K – Fuller picked some huge message songs, I feel like -

A – Yes, they’re both really socially conscious.

K – Yeah, and especially for what’s going on right now. I mean, what’s going on?

A – What is going on? What is going on?

Q – You two are so much alike. It’s really going to be tough for America to decide on this. [Everyone laughs].

K – I know, right?

[Ryan Seacrest pre-finale radio interview].

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

‘Why can’t Adam be the guy next door?’ Kris talks about the ‘Culture War’

Before the Finale:

Q – They are talking about Danny’s votes possibly going to Kris.

K – Oh, gosh.

A – That is possible.

Q – Do you think you might get the Christian vote, Kris?

Kris – Okay, okay. I’ve done this before as well. I hope that having the Christian vote does not help, if anything.  I hope that it has to do with your talent & the performance that you give & just the package that you have. It’s not about religion & all that kind of stuff.

Adam – Yeah, yeah. I don’t know where that – I mean, this is a singing competition & not a church thing. I would hope that people vote based on what they like to hear, you know. It doesn’t have anything to do with your religious background, your color, your gender. It doesn’t have anything to do with that, it’s about your music. So it’s really important to keep that in mind.

K – Yes, please.

[pre-finale press conference].

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Kris talk about the Christian vote & the ‘Culture War’

- There were all these rumors about how all the conservative, Christian people that would vote for me hate Adam and never want him to win because of who he is. Oh, it was so frustrating—really bad, because we are really good friends. Why can’t everyone get along? It never made any sense for me to judge anyone, who they are. It frustrates me that people can’t get along with people because of their differences. And I’ll tell you what, especially Christians. Christians have a hard time accepting people like Adam—liberal, from L.A., looks different, maybe acts a certain way. He’s a great, great guy. They don’t even give him a chance. And it’s frustrating because I come from that. A lot of my friends are not that way, which I appreciate, but a lot of people in Arkansas or in the South or wherever are that way. We really hope that our relationship can be an inspiration to people. I could go on about that forever. [EW interview].

- I hope, I really hope that the Christian vote didn’t play a part in my win. Me and Adam were doing an interview before the show and they were like, “Kris, do you think you’re going to get the Christian vote now that Danny’s gone?” And, you know, that was, I, that was rough. That was kind of upsetting. The show is not about religion; we are not running for President. We are there to do music and there to sing. [Larry King Seacrest interview]

- I hope, I seriously hope & pray that it did not come down to the Christian vote, or like who got Gokey’s vote, because for me & Adam it was just about the music & that was why we were both there. I don’t want to know [the margin of victory], and I don’t know, and I’m glad that I don’t know. I think that would just be weird. I have a feeling that it would be pretty close, I mean, Adam is great. [TV Guide Interview].

-  If [speculation over Adam's sexuality cost him the title] I think that would be the worst thing in the world, you know? We live in a world right now where – why can’t people get along? I think my and Adam’s friendship is hopefully an inspiration to people, because he and I are really different, but there are lots of ways that we’re the same. We care about each other a lot, and we’ve gone through this whole thing with a really, really good friendship. We’re going to be friends for life.  [US magazine interview].

- They made the guyliner vs. the guy next door thing, and we were like, why can’t Adam be the guy next door?… We hated it. We really wanted it to be about the music.

“People were weirded out by our friendship”:

We were friends from the very beginning. Everyone was like, “how can you be friends?” We were like, “we’re just people, and we get along”.  People were confused, “how are someone like you, and him, really good friends?” People were weirded out by it. I wasn’t weirded out about it. Neither was he.

“I don’t know why beliefs have to mess up people’s ideas about everyone else.”

- I feel like Christians should be able to get along with everyone else. I don’t know why beliefs have to mess up friendships and mess up people’s ideas about everyone else. People are people, it’s not so much what you believe in, it’s who you are. It was never a problem with us. He was Jewish. It wasn’t about religion. I wasn’t going to judge him for, like, not being a Christian. He’s a great guy, I mean, seriously, like, one of the best guys I’ve known.

 [The Reality Rocks interview].

“We’ve won already”: Adam & Kris talk about the Finale

Pre-Finale:

Q – Who’s going to win this thing?

Adam – This guy, right here!  [Points at Kris].

Kris – This guy! [Points at Adam]. I mean, who knows?

Adam – It doesn’t matter. We both won. That’s what we’ve both kept saying. We both really feel that way. We really do.

Kris – Totally.

During the Finale:

Kris & Adam’s response when Seacrest announced the winner:

Kris: [Adam] told me that I deserved it. And I shot it right back at him, because I think he does. He’s the most gifted performer that’s ever been on this show and I love him to death. He told me, “You have to sing that song now”.

Adam: He was shocked. I had to shake him a little bit. I can’t remember exactly what I said. I told him congratulations, that I was really happy for him, and that he deserved it.

Kris talks about winning Idol:

Being THE American Idol? Um, never, ever thought I’d be here. You know, I was happy to make it to Hollywood. I was happy to make it to the top 13, I was completely shocked, and, uh, wow. Never, ever thought that this would happen.

Before the whole day even started, we were like “this does not matter,” because, like, we both knew that no matter what happens he’s going to be a huge star, he’s going to be a mega star. He’s Adam Lambert, everyone knows who Adam Lambert is. And he would say the same about me, he feels like I would be a very successful artist and musician. So, we love each other & we have a great friendship. I’m really proud of him & I think that he deserves this [win] just as much as I do.  He’s an amazing, amazing performer; gifted, gifted guy, and great – just, like, really just an amazing guy. It was fun doing this with him, it really was. He’s done things on this show that have never been done, and I’m going to be one of the first people to buy his CD. Maybe he’ll lend it to me.

We had been talking about it the whole time, that we didn’t care who won because it didn’t matter to us, you know? We had been going through the competition and it wasn’t about the winning, we were just so happy to get to the Finale.

Kris’ message to heart-broken Adam fans: Okay, here’s the deal. Adam’s going to be fine, he’s going to be a megastar. He’s probably going to be bigger than me. So don’t worry about him, he’s great. I’m really happy for him, really, really happy for him.

Adam talks about Kris’ win:

Kris is so talented, such a great musician, such a beautiful voice, and on top of it all he is genuinely a really, really good person with a kind, open heart. He deserves this. And I am not just saying that for TV, I’m not just saying that to be like the runner-up guy.  I really feel like he is a good person, and deserves it. And is a great role model and will make great music. I can’t wait to buy his CD. I think Kris won because he’s a great artist, and I am happy to be a runner-up to that.

 

Kris and me were standing backstage before the show started tonight and we were like, ‘Can you believe this? This is huge!’ And he said to me, ‘Yeah, I’m just trying to make sure I can remember this later.’ Like, he was trying to stay present. He was, he was really supportive this whole time and I’m glad it was him & I in the end.

 

[During the day] we both reassured each other that it doesn’t matter, and that we’re good friends, and I support him one hundred percent. Even more than that he is a really good person, who has proven time and time again that he has a great spirit and a great heart. I’m really, really happy for him.

 

 

During the day we had some moments where we looked at each other and we were like, ‘What do you thinks going to happen?’ It was really cool because we both at various times just stopped and looked at each other and meant, ‘you know what, whatever happens, you’re cool in my book, and I’ll be your friend for life, and you deserve it’. So it felt great. And I can’t wait to make an album, I can’t wait. It’s all in the works, you know. Something that’s futuristic, something that hasn’t been done before while nodding to all the great stuff that I love.

It was not about first or second, it was just about staying in it as long as possible… I got to sing with KISS, and with Queen, that is one of my all-time favorite bands. I think that Kris is so talented & so deserving of that title, and it was an honor to stand next to him. And I’m a huge supporter of Kris, he’s my friend, I think he’s immensely talented & he deserves it.

My goal on coming onto this competition was not to ‘win’ the title; it was to stay on the show for as long as I possibly could, to perform and to showcase what I do. And I got to do that. So I don’t feel like I lost. Now I want to make an album, you know? I mean, that’s why I did this. I’m looking forward; I’m looking to the future. I want to make a really cool album, I want to tour, I want to make videos.

Kris & Adam’s favorite part of the day? Their duet with Queen:

Q – Kris, what was your favorite moment of the show? Obviously when you won, that had to probably be the pinnacle…

Kris – My favorite moment was seriously me and Adam singing with Queen.

Adam – Yeah, that was so cool, so cool.
Kris – It just felt like a celebration of the season, you know?
Adam – Yeah, a symbol, you know what I mean? And definitely the best memory, for sure.

 

Adam - I couldn’t believe it. Like Brian May was brushing my shoulder, it was so surreal and not only was it a personal victory for me but also with Kris up there, I mean Kris and I became really good friends on this. We were roommates and looking at him across the way singing the lyric “We are the Champions” I felt very connected to him at that moment and it was the perfect symbolic ending to this whole journey and it really felt like it put the period at the end of the sentence. And for me at that point, whoever won at that point it didn’t matter after that, that was the winning moment for me, I don’t know, you know what I mean, I didn’t feel like I was competing with him at all.

 

 

Fans love the Kradam bromance!

Thank you Kris & Adam for your friendship & obvious respect and appreciation for each other – you made the season for me!

mjsblog said – A huge kudos to Adam and Kris for creating the awesomest bromance evah. The Christian Midwest straight arrow and the Jewish Hollywood gay dude forged an on-air friendship that foiled at least some of the cultural war nonsense the media tried to drum up. Their message that respect and love CAN prevail, despite great differences moved me. Beyond reason.

Other fans want to thank Kris & Adam for their friendship:

- I don’t like the term “bromance”, and I’m a straight guy, but the past 2 finales (David Cook and Archuleta, and Kris and Adam) have shown some very inspirational bromances that left me kinda jealous and made me feel touched after seeing them. The Kris surprise hug video shattered me. Their bromance was easily one of the best things this season. Kris and Adam are two of the greatest guys ever, I would pay infinity dollars to be the third in their bromance.

- Regarding bromance, I find it incredibly refreshing that both men are intensely secure in themselves as artists and as men, so the “issue” of sexuality is not an issue for them. Also, Adam has mentioned several times that he finds Kris’s relationship with Katy “inspiring” so obviously they both bring a lot to the table as friends.

- I adore their bromance and how both have said their goal is to bring people together. And they proclaim they will be lifelong friends and it shows from every picture, candid or otherwise. They are close.

- Something about the Kris and Adam relationship really touched me. They are both role models and their relationship transcended the show.

- For me, the best part of the whole season has been seeing the love and support that Adam and Kris have shown for each other. If you are a fan of either one of these classy guys there is no way you can see that and not want to pull for them both!

- I pretty much ignored the fuss over Kradam until Kris’ surprise hug which melted the black shell of cynicism off my inherently idealistic heart. I adored Cookleta last year, but Kradam takes the cake.

Adorable Kradam fan videos

Adorably cute videos with lots of hugs:

Kris & Adam sing ‘We Are the Champions’ at the Finale

Lots of hugs:

Fan video to the cheesily appropriate song “Love Unites Us”

Adam kisses Kris

Fan video to “How Sweet it Is” sung by Kris

Adam’s brother (Neil Lambert) talks about Kris Allen

Adam’s brother Neil Lambert blogged at Something Awful dot com during the Idol competition. Below is what Neil said about Kris; Kris’ win; American Idol; Michael Sarver; and why Adam didn’t talk about his sexuality on the show:

Before the Finale:

- I like Kris. I wish him luck and I’ll just let the chips fall where they may.

- What a day! I’m simply beside myself for a Kris vs. Adam finale. My family and I had dinner at the same restaurant as Kris’ and we kept running into them and showing each other how we were voting for the other family’s kid. It was adorable. His family are all really sweet people and I’m not at all pissed if he ends up winning the whole thing. That said, vote for Adam .

I was determined to not have Adam lose to Gokey, but I don’t mind if Kris wins simply because he was such an underdog and so obviously talented. I just wish the finale could have been a 3-way competition between Kris, Allison, and Adam.

Adam will be fine no matter what. He’s got a lot of people knocking on his door. Besides the shame of having someone as lame as Gokey beating him, it might even be better for him to get 2nd. Like I said, no matter what happens, i’m happy with the outcome.

Kris Allen’ Win

Oh the sadness! Middle America kicked our rear end. But all’s not lost, Adam’s in good hands and has quite a few people knocking on his door. Slash thinks he’s awesome and wants to collaborate. So he’ll be fine. Kris and his family are nice, genuine people. Even if they were somewhat fueled by people voting simply for the Christian guy, I’m happy for them. He’s talented, so it’s not like it was a complete mugging.

I got a bit sour grapes too, and had to keep reminding myself that this outcome is the best possible outcome. It was only a selfish pride thing that I wanted to see Adam win, but truthfully Kris needed the win and Adam didn’t. loving SLASH wants to work with him. Queen? Tons of producers. He’ll be fine.

The nerves finally hit me at the big reveal, but I wasn’t surprised. I mean, dialidol had informed me of their fate the night before. My mom was who I worried about, but she was ok too. The thing is, seeing the utter joy and complete shock from the Allens was really nice. After the show they were hugging and kissing their family and friends and it was simply wonderful. I’m very happy for them. Kris’ brother’s a good guy and we both occupied that my-brother-is-on-idol space so it was nice to watch him finish that journey. Kris’ father’s name is Neil as well, so I have a special affection for him too. And hell, Kris is talented. Like I’ve always said, the only thing that would have sent me flying into a rage would have been a Gokey victory. Plus, who ****ing cares who won? My brother just sang on stage with QUEEN AND KISS. I don’t think he could have been happier. The entire show, actually, was pretty damned entertaining. The afterparty was good too.

American Idol

The production staff are all very nice people, the contestants for the most part are cool. The only thing I hate is the audience. Not those of us that sit around and simply talk/make fun. I’m talking about the incessantly screaming tweens. I had to sit on the set of American Idol Extra to watch Adam’s exit interview and I couldn’t handle it. I actually left and went around the corner to have a drink with Adam’s/Allison’s hair stylist and a former Idol contestant, much to Mom’s chagrin. Perhaps I’ve never been a 12 year old girl (perhaps), but I just don’t understand the idea of screaming someone’s name in a vain effort to get their attention instead of actually listening to what they’re saying or paying attention to the show. Great, you’re having fun. But it’s at everyone’s expense. These are the people that fuel idol for the most part and for that reason I’m glad Adam didn’t win. Perhaps I sound really arrogant here but I think he’s bigger than this show. I want him to do bigger things than this.

Michael Sarver

I’d love to throw a rock at Sarver, though. He’s a dick. Gokey seemed like he was just joking…  [Atozinco Note: in a video that Sarver made it shows Gokey saying about Sarver, "I love this guy to death. In the..right way?" Sarver said, "In the Godly way". Gokey repeats Sarver but looks unsure, "Um, in the Godly way... I mean, what do you say?"]

I’ll quote Sarver on this endlessly:

Michael Sarver posted:

Where I’m from, you’re either in the closet or you’re dead.

hurrrrrr.

With Sarver, well…. Mom and Dad always taught us that it isn’t what you say but how you say it. That’s how I got so sardonic. So if what he said offended Adam, it probably had some teeth to it. Do I think he hates gays? No. Do I think he’s an ignorant shithead with no concept of diversity and how to interact with people that don’t match the narrow archetype of everyone you grew up with? Yes.

Alright, I’ll stop derailing about Sarver now and just say this. He’s not at fault for being ignorant if he’s never stepped outside his comfort zone. But if I were in a similar situation in which I found myself in his neck of the woods, my first inclination wouldn’t be to tell the people around town that where I’m from we all think they’re inbred hicks. Just sayin’.

Adam’s Sexuality

What pisses me off is that people think he’s not talking about it because he’s scared of what’ll happen. Look at the loving TV and tell me he’s scared of weirding people out. Yeah right.

The truth is, American Idol shouldn’t be about the contestants’ silly personal stories. Had Danny Gokey not gone the Pity Party route, he would’ve been out sooner because he’s just not that exciting of a singer. I don’t want to see Adam on-screen whimpering about how hard it is to be a gay man in America because it doesn’t have to do with his singing. Adam didn’t want to fuse a sob story into his Idol persona. He wants to sing and entertain, not make people vote for him out of sympathy.