Lady Gaga has long been an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, known for her unwavering support and unapologetic self-expression. But one of the most significant moments in her career came when she chose not to address persistent rumors about her gender, refusing to debunk them for a reason that makes her stand out as a beacon of inclusivity and resilience.

Lady Gaga as Harleen Quinzel in Joker: Folie à Deux | Warner Bros. Pictures’ YouTube

Since the early stages of her career, Lady Gaga has faced rumors regarding her gender identity, with speculation circulating that she was transgender or intersex. These rumors reached a peak in 2009 after her performance at the Glastonbury Festival, where footage sparked conversations about a supposed bulge under her skirt.

Instead of directly addressing the speculation, Gaga let it run its course, believing that responding would send the wrong message to the LGBTQ+ community, especially to young individuals grappling with their identities.