In an emotional essay, Disney star Alyson Stoner has opened up about her sexuality and talked about her experience of falling in love with a woman.
In her piece, published in Teen Vogue, the 24-year-old recalled the time she fell in love with her dance instructor.
"There she was, wearing loose jeans and a backward snapback," she described of their first encounter at a workshop. "She flipped and rolled her body around with adventure and total abandon. As a Type A perfectionist, I was mesmerized and intimidated."
The 'Step Up' star then revealed that the things between the two became physical.
"She and I continued to hang out and began sending good morning texts. Then we made dinner and watched 'Orange Is the New Black'. Then we vented and supported each other. Then cuddled. Then kissed and kissed some more."
"OK, we were in a relationship. I fell in love with a woman," she realised.
Stoner further revealed she attended therapy for years as she was trying to figure out where her attraction was stemming from.
"I had internalized some of the harmful beliefs and misconceptions about LGBTQ people and identities."
She added that "some people in the industry warned me that I'd ruin my career, miss out on possible jobs, and potentially put my life in danger if I ever came out. My dream and all I'd worked tirelessly for since the age of 6 was suddenly at risk by my being . . . true to myself."
"I, Alyson, am attracted to men, women, and people who identify in other ways," Stoner concluded in her essay. "I can love people of every gender identity and expression. It is the soul that captivates me. It is the love we can build and the goodness we can contribute to the world by supporting each other's best journeys.
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