Oprah’s “Where Are They Now” is always a stellar show to watch. Last night however, The Queen of Media flexed her power and got one of Hollywood’s most secretive stars to finally open up–Raven-Symone. Raven is known worldwide as a child star turned superstar. Unlike many of her compatriots she has lived a relatively private and tabloid free life, opting to focus on her career. The former Cosby Kid sat down with Oprah and answered a few longstanding questions concerning her life, sexuality, and self-identification. Naturally, Raven was poised and well spoken in all of her responses. However, some of her responses have fans stunned.
Raven has officially come out and reveals she has a lesbian partner. This is not surprising to her fans, however, as it has been long speculated she is in a relationship with model AzMarie Livingston. When asked if the following tweet was her way of coming out:
Raven responded “That was my way of saying I’m proud of the country…But, I will say that I’m in an amazing, happy relationship with my partner. A woman.” She reveals her reluctance to be so open with her personal life comes from her parents’ guidance. She, and they, wanted her to have as normal a life as possible. Raven also revealed she has known of her “dating choice” since she twelve. This knowledge may very well be a big part of why the star remained so secretive. “People in my family, they’ve taught me to keep my personal life to myself as much as possible. So, I try my best to hold the fence where I can… But I am proud to be who I am and what I am.”
Although Raven acknowledges her sexual orientation and she frees herself from any labels. “I don’t want to be labeled ‘gay… I want to be labeled ‘a human who loves humans.’ She goes on to say “I’m tired of being labeled… I’m an American. I’m not an African-American; I’m an American.” This powerful statement made Oprah shift in her seat and forewarn her of the backlash coming for such a statement. Still, Raven stuck to her guns. “I don’t label myself. I have darker skin. I have a nice, interesting grade of hair. I connect with Caucasian. I connect with Asian. I connect with Black. I connect with Indian. I connect with each culture.” This had to be one of Oprah’s best interviews ever and definitely the best one since she first began the “Where Are They Now?” series. It takes a lot of courage to know who you are and unapologetically declare that to the world. Now the rumors and speculation can cease and we can all leave her in peace. She is human, and that label says more than enough!
