JUST IN: Nathan Cleary Officially Responds to Explosive LGBT Allegations
NRL superstar Nathan Cleary has officially addressed swirling rumors regarding his sexuality, firmly denying claims that he identifies as part of the LGBT community. The Penrith Panthers co-captain broke his silence in a statement earlier today, saying that the speculation “goes against [his] personal beliefs and values.”
The rumors, which surfaced on social media over the past week, quickly gained traction, with fans and critics alike debating their authenticity. Hashtags linking Cleary to the LGBT community began trending, prompting heated conversations online and dividing opinions within the rugby league community.
In his statement, Cleary clarified: “I’ve seen a lot of talk going around about my personal life. Let me be clear—I am not a part of the LGBT community. These claims are completely false and go against what I believe in. I respect everyone’s right to live how they choose, but that’s not my truth.”
Cleary’s comments have ignited a new wave of reactions, with many praising his honesty while others criticized the phrasing of his response as potentially dismissive or controversial. Some advocacy groups have urged the NRL and Cleary’s management team to ensure the message does not alienate or marginalize LGBT fans.
This isn’t the first time the rugby league has been at the center of a public conversation around sexuality and belief systems. Just last year, similar discussions emerged surrounding inclusivity within professional sports, particularly among male-dominated leagues.
The Penrith Panthers have since released a brief statement supporting Cleary’s right to speak on the matter, stating: “Nathan is entitled to address rumors that concern him personally. As a club, we value inclusivity and respect the diverse backgrounds of our players and fans.”
As one of the most recognizable faces in Australian sport, Cleary’s words carry significant weight—not only for his fanbase but also within broader discussions about identity, privacy, and public scrutiny.
While the story continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Cleary’s decision to publicly comment has thrust him back into the spotlight—not for his on-field achievements, but for the complexities of navigating fame in a world where personal and public lives are increasingly intertwined.