JoJo Siwa has finally spoken out following Miley Cyrus’ controversial comments about her romance with Love Island star Chris Hughes.
Earlier this week, the Something Beautiful singer, 32, sparked outrage when she joked about the 22-year-old dancer’s sexuality during a panel at the Dreamland Pride Festival in New York.
Cyrus’ remarks referred to Siwa, who identifies as queer, and recently split from her partner Kath Ebbs, 27, after appearing on Celebrity Big Brother in April.
During the show, Siwa formed a close bond with 32-year-old Hughes, and the pair have since confirmed their relationship.
During the event, Cyrus said to the crowd, “Enjoy coming out of the closet if this Pride is the time for you,” before adding, “Alright, I’m going back to get some more pretzels and find JoJo Siwa and bring her back out.”
Video clips of the moment quickly went viral, with many accusing Cyrus of being “biphobic”.
In response, Siwa has now shared a heartfelt message accompanied by childhood photos of a Miley-themed birthday party, as well as pictures with Cyrus herself.
“I was happy at my 5th birthday having a Miley themed party, and I’m still happy now at 22,” she wrote in the accompanying caption. “If you know me, you know that Miley is my day one I grew up beyond inspired by her from two years old.”
Siwa admitted that she had needed some time to process the remarks. “I wasn’t sure how I felt about things for a couple of days… but I’ve started to come to some thoughts. I don’t believe what Miley said at World Pride was ill-intended honestly I think it was meant to be a joke just not a very good one.” She added: “Not what the world or myself needs to hear any day of the week.”
She also revealed she reached out to Cyrus, who replied warmly, saying: “All love. Always,” followed by three red love-heart emojis.
Reflecting on the experience, Siwa penned: “Honestly, the most beautiful thing I’ve learned in the last five years is that love is a gorgeous rainbow.
“Don’t question yourself, don’t second guess yourself, just love. Love, love, love, love, love.
“People judge no matter what, and it can be very hard, especially when it comes from someone you love and look up to.
“But if you feel happy and content with yourself, that’s the most important thing. You get one life hold onto it, make it yours, find your happy, and love.”
