In an emotional and heartfelt moment that resonated across the LGBTQ+ community and the wider music world, Maren Morris took the stage at West Hollywood’s OUTLOUD Festival during WeHo Pride 2025, not just as a celebrated artist, but as someone fully embracing her identity. For fans who have followed her journey, her performance this Pride Month held special significance.
What unfolded that night was more than just a concert — it was a statement of self-love, courage, and connection. Morris, now 35, expressed her gratitude to her supporters in a way that underscored both the simplicity and power of living authentically. As the crowd gathered under the California night sky, many unaware of the deeper weight behind the performance, the singer offered a quiet but powerful acknowledgment of her personal truth.
A Personal Milestone in the Spotlight
For Maren Morris, this was her first Pride Month since coming out publicly as bisexual in June 2024. Onstage, she delivered a message that encapsulated her approach: “Thank you guys, girls and everyone in between, for supporting me,” she said, addressing her audience with warmth and inclusivity. Her remarks, caught on a fan’s TikTok video, reflected her desire to be candid without fanfare: “I didn’t want to make a big press release or anything, I just wanted to say it and be normal. That’s all any of us want.”
What followed was an outpouring of appreciation, both from those in attendance and online. “What I did not expect, which was so kind, was the open arms and the warmth and support from y’all,” she added. For many, Morris’ vulnerability and sincerity marked a turning point in how mainstream artists approach identity in an era where visibility still requires bravery.
Coming Out on Her Own Terms
Morris made headlines in June 2024 when she came out as bisexual on Instagram, sharing a post that featured her wrapped in the Pride flag and the caption: “happy to be the B in LGBTQ+. happy pride.” Her declaration was simple, powerful, and unfiltered—a reflection of how she has approached both her music and personal life. Unlike many public figures who come out through formal statements or media exclusives, Morris opted for authenticity, bypassing spectacle in favor of sincerity.
Her openness inspired thousands, especially young fans looking for representation in the country-pop scene, a genre often perceived as slow to embrace queer identities. The reaction was overwhelmingly supportive, with fans praising her bravery and celebrating the inclusive message she sent to the world.
Reflecting on Identity in the Public Eye
In a revealing interview with The Zoe Report in May 2025, Morris discussed her journey in greater depth. “I’ve always known that I am attracted to men and women,” she said, candidly acknowledging that her personal journey took time to unfold publicly.
“I think because I’ve been in straight relationships the last 15 years of my life, which has been consumed by my music career and living in Nashville, I never felt brave enough to talk about it,” she continued. Nashville, often seen as the heart of traditional country music, hasn’t always been viewed as the most welcoming place for openly queer artists. But Morris, a Grammy-winning performer known for pushing boundaries, is changing that narrative.
A Life Transition That Brought Clarity
Morris’ coming out also came during a period of significant personal transformation. In October 2023, she and her husband, fellow country singer Ryan Hurd, announced their separation. The split, while deeply personal, appears to have offered Morris a space to reevaluate her identity and priorities.
“That was just a facet of me that I didn’t think I wanted private anymore,” she shared in the same interview. “I wanted to be able to connect with my fans and my queer community.”
She described the aftermath of her divorce as a “free-for-all post-divorce reckoning,” during which community, particularly the LGBTQ+ community, became a crucial support system. “Being honest and being vulnerable is the only way that you find community,” she explained. Her words resonated with many who have faced the same fear of rejection when embracing their true selves.
A Voice of Advocacy in Country and Beyond
Morris has never shied away from tackling challenging topics in her music and interviews. Throughout her career, she has been vocal about inclusivity, equality, and standing up for marginalized voices. Her decision to come out further solidifies her role as a cultural advocate, not just a performer.
Country music has often been criticized for its lack of diversity, both racially and in terms of sexual orientation. Morris has used her platform to amplify the voices of Black artists, LGBTQ+ musicians, and women in an industry where many feel underrepresented. Her Pride performance was a celebration of that ongoing mission.
Creating a Safe Space Through Music
Onstage at the OUTLOUD Festival, Morris performed with her signature mix of powerhouse vocals and emotional depth. But what made the evening especially meaningful was the sense of unity she fostered among the crowd. For those in attendance, it wasn’t just about the music—it was about visibility, connection, and empowerment.
One fan commented on TikTok: “I never thought I’d see someone like Maren being so open, especially in country music. This means everything.”
Her setlist included both fan favorites and new songs rumored to be inspired by her recent journey. While she hasn’t confirmed whether a new album is in the works, there is growing speculation that Morris’ next era will be her most personal yet.