Shawn Mendes opens up about sexuality during Colorado concert: ‘such a beautifully complex thing’

During his For Friends and Family Tour stop at Colorado's Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Shawn Mendes addressed long-standing speculation surrounding his sexual identity. The 26-year-old singer-songwriter paused before performing his latest track, "The Mountain," to share personal insights on how public interest has shaped his experience with sexuality. "I think it’s kind of silly because I think sexuality is such a beautifully complex thing," Mendes remarked, underscoring his belief that identity cannot be "put into boxes."

Reflecting on the scrutiny he has faced since his career began at 15, Mendes expressed that constant pressure from the media and fans has sometimes left him feeling trapped. "It always felt like such an intrusion on something very personal to me," he shared, adding that he is still on a journey of self-discovery. Mendes explained, "Something that I was figuring out in myself, something that I had yet to discover and still have yet to discover." This introspective moment allowed him to connect with the audience, who he said, has been essential in helping him find acceptance in his path of personal growth.

Through his song "The Mountain," Mendes articulates his feelings about these experiences and admits that he often feels vulnerable in a society eager to label. He concluded by sharing his resolve to live "beyond labels" and embrace his evolving self, "The real truth about my life and my sexuality is that, man, I’m just figuring it out like everyone."