Was Sinad OConnor a Lesbian? What She Said about Her Sexuality

March 2024 · 3 minute read

Sinéad O'Connor's sexuality stirred controversy over time. Initially, she publicly declared herself a lesbian, but later on, she shared a different perspective on her sexuality, causing further discussions and debates.

In 2000 Sinéad O'Connor set the record straight concerning her sexual orientation and revealed she identified as lesbian.

However, five years later, during an interview, the "Nothing Compares 2 U" singer expressed a different perspective on her sexuality. She said, "I'm three-quarters heterosexual, a quarter gay."

Sinead O'Connor at Vogue Theatre on February 01, 2020, in Vancouver, Canada. | Source: Getty Images

In 2014, O'Connor provided further clarification when questioned about her sexuality. The acclaimed singer, then 47 years old, expressed that she had grown and evolved in her understanding.

The Irish singer emphasized that if she fell in love with someone, their gender wouldn't be a determining factor, and she would be open to a relationship with either a man or a woman. She also mentioned her disbelief in using any label to define relationships or identities.

During the same interview, O'Connor shared her journey of connecting with the gay community. Growing up in Ireland, she disclosed that the concept of the gay community was virtually non-existent in the 70s, and she had never even heard the term "gay" used.

Sinead O'Connor at the RTÉ Choice Music Prize at Vicar Street on March 09, 2023, in Dublin, Ireland. | Source: Getty Images

She heard the term from a female impersonator named Danny La Rue, who had a popular TV show during that time. Despite enjoying his show, O'Connor remained unaware of the broader gay community until she reached 17.

O'Connor's exposure to the gay community occurred when she moved to London and connected with her cross-dressing cousin. The cousin was the one who introduced her to the world of gay clubs, providing her with her first glimpse into the vibrant and diverse community.

In 2014, O'Connor candidly disclosed her desire to date women, as she expressed that her past experiences with men in relationships had not been successful. In a now-deleted blog post, the late singer shared her thoughts, revealing that she failed in dating men. She humorously mentioned that people who googled her didn't view her as an ideal prospect for dating.

Sinead O'Connor performs live at Campus Industry Music in Parma, Italy, on January 18 2020. | Source: Getty Images

O'Connor expressed her affection for women, stating that she felt a strong connection and attraction to them. The late singer then revealed that many women showed interest in her during her performances, which further reinforced her inclination toward dating women.

O'Connor was married four times, and none of the marriages stood the test of time. Sinead O'Connor was just 21 when she married her first husband, John Reynolds, in 1987, shortly after welcoming their first child, Jake Reynolds. The two called it quits in 1991 after four years of marriage.

The singer found love again with journalist Nick Sommerlad. They got married in a secret ceremony in 2001 but ultimately divorced in 2004. In 2010, O'Connor married Steve Cooney, but they called it quits in 2011.

Sinead O'Connor performs on stage at Barbican Centre on April 13, 2015, in London, United Kingdom. | Source: Getty Images

O'Connor gave love another chance the same year and tied the knot with Barry Herridge after three months of dating. Sixteen days after exchanging vows, O'Connor announced they were going their separate ways.

The late singer also shared three more kids, sons Shane Lunny, with Irish folk musician Donal Lunny and Yeshua, with American businessman Frank Bonadio. She also welcomed her daughter, Roisin Waters, with journalist John Waters.

The renowned singer passed away on Wednesday, 26, aged 56. Her family released an official statement confirming her death. However, the cause of her passing has not been disclosed to the public.

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