Before you roll your eyes and dismiss this as another anti-Tebow snark piece, it isn’t. In fact, it’s honestly made me rethink everything I’ve said about him.
There is no denying that Tim Tebow is one of the top sports stories of the year, in part because of the Broncos’ turnaround, in part because of his zealous religious practices, and in part because he looks like such an awful quarterback…but still wins.
A recent ESPN poll claims that Tebow is America’s favorite athlete. He won the poll with a whopping 3% of the vote, so it doesn’t translate very well into that claim; My guess is he’d also win the same poll asking fans whom their least-favorite athlete is. Still, there’s no doubt Tebow is a big, popular story in America and his popularity as an athlete is skyrocketing.
As that story has built over the last couple of months, and as Tebow and the Broncos have become one of the top stories in the NFL, the question I’ve gotten asked more and more, leading up to this week when I’ve seen the question flood onto my phone and email inbox:
Is Tim Tebow gay?
I’m not a big fan of speculating about people’s sexual orientation, particularly athletes. I’ve heard wishful-thinking “rumors” about more athletes than I could fit in Mile High. But with Tebow, even Deadspin is wondering, with their Wednesday headline, “What if Tim Tebow were gay?” In non-Deadspin fashion, Drew Magary put aside the snark for a moment and analyzed what would happen if the man-of-the-hour was in fact gay.
It’s a hard truth that the most religious guy on your block is the one most likely to be sneaking out to truck stops at 3 a.m. so he can greedily lap up every last ounce of redneck jizz caked on the bathroom stall partition. Anyway, if Tebow were gay, a couple of things would happen. First off, Mike Silver would die from excitement. Secondly, Tebow would have an incredible opportunity to bridge the persistent divide in this nation between evangelical Christians and the gay community. I mean, honestly: It’s time for this matter to be settled. Tebow could get his followers to be more accepting of gays, and he could get filthy liberals to be more accepting of evangelicals. I think he and Von Miller would make the cutest gay couple ever.
That argument — it’s often the loudest preachers who are gay — is rooted in some pretty substantial history. Ted Haggard, the evangelical pastor who hired a male prostitute over the course of several years, is possibly the most glaring example.
When I was in my late teens and early 20s, I was a devout Christian. I went to church every Sunday, read the Bible, and prayed every night. Every single night. I swore, like Tebow, that I wouldn’t have sex until I married. My first long-term girlfriend was even more hardcore Christian than I was. It was easy hiding my sexual orientation behind my religion. God said I can’t have sex, so I can’t have sex.
It’s not a gay thing, it’s a God thing.
It wasn’t until I was 21 that I had sexual contact with anyone else; It wasn’t until I was 22 that I’d try to “stumble” into bathrooms on campus where it was rumored gay sex occurred.
Tebow, like myself 20 years ago, has said he’s committed to no sex until he’s married. Outsports reader John Armstrong reflected on Tebow’s commitment to chastity:
You are aware that Tim Tebow is a flaming homosexual, right? Hmmm…I hate myself for being gay and a fundie, so what can I do? I know; I’ll super-achieve in a sport where I can be around men. How can I be very attractive and successful and still be a virgin and nobody scratches heads? I know; I’ll flaunt my religion.
Tim Tebow has one purpose on earth: To reconcile homosexuality and religion. When he comes out, the world changes.
But there’s more to the “Tim Tebow gay” speculation than just the religious aspect.
Certainly there are many gay men who don’t fall into certain stereotypes; Stereotypes are by no means a de facto indicator of sexual orientation. But I’ve found over time there are few straight men who do fall into them. So when I see a video like this, it really gives me pause:
A friend simply texted: “Omg have u seen tebow interview…Oh lord.”
A straight sports commentator called me this week with the same reaction to Tebow’s post-Steelers press conference.
Again, not every gay man flails his hands and talks with a slight lisp…there are just very few straight men who do. And seeing that video just…well…sue me, it does make me wonder.
Then there’s this photo flying around the Internet, which leaves people wondering:
And this one…
In fact, when you Google “Tim Tebow kiss,” no pictures of him with girls come up in the first couple hundred results…but him kissing and hugging men are aplenty.
I got an email the other day from a friend, Brian Taylor, who says Tebow has another strong “tell” that he’s gay:
It involves thumbs being tucked in, underneath the index finger. Anyhow, Tim Tebow has this tell. It’s actually not even one tell for him. He has many. And the first chapter of his biography is about Uncle Dick — who is most definitely a gay single guy who grew up next-door to him. He was and remains a hero of Tim’s.
I don’t know about his thumbs and index fingers, but the email shows how deeply people are thinking about the sexual orientation of this fascinating athlete. And to be sure, our actions, mannerisms and facial expressions reveal more about us than we intend. According to Taylor, who wrote a study titled, Anatomy of discrimination: sexual orientation and nonverbal behaviors in dyadic interactions, both psychologist Paul Ekman and former FBI agent Joe Navarro have demonstrated over and over that how you move, e.g., flailing your arms as you talk, can convey sexual orientation.
I have no idea if Tebow is gay. But this has all left me thinking…what if he really is? For real.
Kinda makes me feel like a schmuck.
All that pious religious bullshit he spews…at the end of the day, that’s not him. That’s what his parents and his pastors have drilled into his head from the day he was born. The kid doesn’t even know who he really is. When you’re indoctrinated with religion from birth, and you commit your life to the all-consuming sport of football, there isn’t much time left for true self-discovery. If he is in fact gay, he may not know it. Even if he does, chances are slim he’d be comfortable telling his mother…or pastor…let alone us.
If Tebow is gay, he is buried beneath so much crap he many never get out from under it. Instead of attacking him for it, maybe reaching out a helpful hand would be nice. Don’t get me wrong, he’s still a crappy quarterback. But all that “my lord and savior Jesus Christ” stuff…could be Tebow’s cry for help.
So I’m gonna lay off Tim a little. If he is in fact gay, and if he does in fact ever figure that out, he’s going to need all the support he can get.
Photo from Tebow’s Jockey underwear campaign.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:47 AM
Very well put and the UF athletic department did a good job of protecting their “star” during the Cam Newton issues and continue to do so with both now in the NFL limelight.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:50 AM
Cyd, if Tebow were gay and in the closet, he would not be seen dead kissing a guy. So, either he’s out to those he cares about, or he’s a straight guy secure in his sexuality (and not particularly homophobic). In either case, we should let him be.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 12:14 PM
I think it’s time to let the Tebow dog lie. ‘Nuff said about him.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 12:16 PM
Who cares if he is or isn’t. As long as he can play football that is all that should count. I wouldn’t look at him any less if he was or wasn’t. If he turns out to be as bad as some of the Buffalo Bills quarterbacks we recently had than I will judge him.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 12:38 PM
Good perspective. Great piece.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 12:49 PM
He set bells ringing on my gay-o-meter when I first saw him as a player at Florida. While my gay-o-meter is pretty darn accurate, it can be thrown for a loop by one thing: Jesus lovers. Have you ever seen a macho guy go on & on about how much he loves Jesus? Nope. There’s just something about loving Jesus that turns a guy into a complete screamer. I mean look at that video of Tebow giving a post game interview – I’m waiting for him to gush “Oh girlfriend!” at any moment. Maybe there’s just something about thinking how much you just love that guy with the curly long hair, manly, well groomed beard, no doubt commando under those long flowing robes that connects with their real life attraction?
On a more serious note, I do think it likely Tebow is gay, but I also think it highly unlikely he’ll ever admit it to himself, let alone others.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 1:09 PM
Because of his religious indoctrination, Tebow will never admit to himself or anyone else that he’s gay. He’ll suppress his sexuality, pretend to be interested in women, and spend his entire life in a loveless passionless marriage… because that’s what his God would want him to do. Even with his fame, money and good looks, I actually feel sorry for him. No one should have to live a false life for anyone else; and I doubt that his own God would want him to suffer like that.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 1:14 PM
Like Tebow, I was a Christian through my college years, graduating as a virgin in every possible sense of the word, even though I was active in the music and drama departments at the GAYEST college inmy home state. I was deeply closeted and dated girls – usually talented musicians that I shared an interest with. Right after graduation, I had my first sexual experience – with a man, and a full year passed before my second – likewise with a man. By then I knew and was fully out. During college I was attractive in a twinky sort of way and often received “unwanted” advances.
Why all this TMI? Because I find it hard to believe that a college guy that popular, and with THAT (omg) body and his (at least to me) gorgeous face, could graduate from college a virgin – UNLESS he really had something to hide. Any Christian could say “I stumbled down the wrong path and had my way with loose women but God forgave me”, but not this stacked piece o’meat. Gurl got some issues…
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 1:21 PM
If you watch the clip(which is rare to find, the nfl has seen to that) where he full on kisses Demaryius Thomas, you notice he is lost in the moment and I truly believe his true self comes out right then. It is very quick and you can tell Thomas wasn’t expecting it and turns his head immediately after(probably thought they were just gonna do that gaze in the eyes or head butt those jocks do after a good play). It all makes sense, thanks for the story and giving me more compassion towards him. I think we forget that with our brothers and sisters in the closet.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 1:24 PM
ok looking at the video i would have to say he is gay. But i myself have meet men who flair there arms when they talk and are married with kids. Even if he was gay you think that is going to sway him from his religion and all the sudden he will not beleave anymore i don’t think so. Oh and if he is gay i don’t care if he is a sucky quarterback i still would not kick him out of bed!!!
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 1:26 PM
Aren’t you looking, with “gay eyes” at that photo of Tebow licking that teammate?
From a gay prospective it might look gay, but from from a friend/teammate prospective, it might just be a friend goofing around with another friend.
And of course there are going to be hundreds, if not thousands, of photos of Tebow kissing another guy. It’s what gays want to see. Have you seen the Hot Jock thread here on Outsports or that Jockey campaign link you posted?
And it’s also what Tebow haters want to spread.
I’m surprised you haven’t complained about it, how people are saying Tebow sucks because he kisses other dudes.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 1:48 PM
Good piece Cyd! I made this turn a few months ago for pretty much the same reason…I think it really is a front and the kid has just not found himself yet….How wild would it be if he were the actual one that blew the door down for gay athletes.
Perhaps mister right will come along and knock him off of his feet…he is clearly a passionate person. Passionate people have a hard time containing such secrets. I hope for his case he does not do something foolish in shame when that time does come.
Great piece.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 2:49 PM
I don’t care if he’s gay. He sucks as a quarterback. Period. He’s an over-hyped, underperforming athlete. If Tebow came out tomorrow, I would still think he’s a crap quarterback.
In fact, I hope he’s not gay. If he’s gay it will reconfirm to many that gay men can’t play sports.
Further, if he’s a closeted gay guy then I still won’t like him personally. By associating with the American Family Association, if he’s gay, then he’s just another George Rekers, Ted Haggard, and Larry Craig: a gay man willing to aid those who would hang gay men for his own advantage. So, if he’s gay he’s even more worthy of being loathed.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 3:41 PM
I’m a college football fan with no interest in the pros.
I don’t remember Tebow lisping or being big on hand gestures when he was at UF.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 3:52 PM
“Sucks as a quarterback” and is an “under performing athlete”????
Last weekend Tebow played the defending AFC Champions, and defeated them, while 20 other NFL Quarterbacks stayed home and made plans for their off season. This weekend Tebow will be playing the AFC #1 seed, while Ben Roethlisberger, Matt Ryan, Matthew Stafford and Andy Dalton stay home and think about what they might do differently.
I can understand resentment over the media hype and that he so upfront about his religious beliefs. The hype isn’t his fault, it’s what the media does – find a story to hype to sell more papers and/or get more eyeballs – and he has as much right to publicly display his affection for Jesus as any gay does for his partner. But he’s demonstrated that he is a superb athlete and outstanding quarterback, and he’s earned my respect.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 4:22 PM
@Dave in Az:
You wrote: “Last weekend Tebow played the defending AFC Champions, and defeated them, ”
Correction: Last weekend the Broncos played the defending AFC Champions and defeated them.
It’s a team sport in case you forgot. Last year, in a first round playoff game the Seattle Seahawks beat the defending Super Bowl champions. Did that mean that the Seattle Seahawks were a great team?
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 4:45 PM
Thank You Cyd!!! (FINALLY!)
I really appreciate this, and support the turn towards a more positive, accepting attitude. I suspect this turn of heart is also due to all the negativity stirred up within this site by Cyd’s posts. At the end of the day, does Outsports want to be known as a force for good, or just another place where people are torn apart?
My hope is for an actual apology to Tim Tebow, but a mea culpa isn’t a bad start.
I think it is appropriate to have the “gay” conversation now, and hope for the best for Tim, no matter how his future unfolds.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 5:01 PM
@ Robert:
In that particular example it means Sean Payton was incredibly over confident and came in with a game plan that was severely lacking in “what if” scenarios.
Yes, of course it was the Broncos as a team that defeated the Steelers. But I don’t recall very many teams in the playoffs defeat the defending conference champions while being led by a QB that sucked and was an under-performance athlete.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 5:19 PM
I’d love to read Brian’s thesis study. Would you be able to connect us? Thnx queen!
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 5:31 PM
I’ve never posted here before but I saw this linked from Towleroad. It’s important here to say “don’t hold your breath”. Ted Haggard would almost certainly still be living his lie if he hadn’t been exposed. These people live in a mind set where this is no such thing as an innate homosexual: there are merely actions which are “sinful” and actions which are not.
I think I’m a somewhat keener observer of human affairs than most people and I’ve seen time and again that fundamentalist religion is a salve for the closeted. In fact it’s probably one of the more important recruiting mechanism of evangelism, which is why they are so actively opposed to gay rights. For people looking for a reason to hide who they are it offers hope…and therefore homophobia helps sustains the entire industry of megachurches, televangelism, etc. Sad but true. The majority of closeted-seeming people I’ve met were also obsessed with religion…some comically so. I’ve heard from gay guys who went to both Bible colleges and secular colleges that there were more gay seeming people at the Bible colleges!
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 5:32 PM
Seriously? Why does a man not having sex mean he has to be queer? Except for a 12 yo dalliance I waited until I was 25. It was my decision. If Tebow were my gay son, I’d support him whatever his choice. ( and frankly I’d hope he was just taking matters in hand to avoid STDs) So, as he is a total stranger, except on the television, I support his choice. The same thing applies to the guys on Logo’s sex shows that have sex with anyone their drug addled state permits them to find attractive. ( and I suspect many pundits here find sluts just as obnoxious unless the pundit is getting lucky) I support whatever choice they make that doesn’t involve me.
If the media quit showcasing Tebow’s every movement we wouldn’t even notice his christian zeal.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 5:43 PM
Almost on cue, USA Today has just posted an in depth article about his personal life, which :gasp: leaves a closet door wide open!
In the past 24hours, Deadspin, Cyd, Andy Towle, and USA Today are posting with speculation into his personal life.
My conspiratorial mind is beginning to wonder if these are the first steps in paving the way for his coming out publicly?
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 5:53 PM
Money quote from the USA Today piece….
“…..Tebow rarely discusses his frustrations with the sharper edges of fame and fortune. Most do not know it, but the conscientious quarterback is a closet worrier. The cocoon-ish isolation of superstardom prompts him to conclude, “It’s hard to create new friendships outside sports.”
Not do subtle inferences to not leading girls on as well!
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 6:36 PM
“My conspiratorial mind is beginning to wonder if these are the first steps in paving the way for his coming out publicly?”
Nah, but there is no bigger story in American sports and everyone is examining him. The Broncos-Steelers game was the most watched TV show since the last Super Bowl and the most watched wild card game in 24 years (when there were much fewer viewing options).
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 7:14 PM
Why then the sudden, very compassionate, and timely change of heart?
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 7:47 PM
He looks extremely flaming in that video! (Is he actually lisping?!) Cyd this is very well written thought provoking article.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 7:51 PM
Cyd may be dead-on when it comes to his Tebow theory. But we should still keep a couple of things in mind:
—After watching the video above, I looked up a couple of other Tebow interviews on YouTube (one on Kimmel, another on CBS Sports). In those videos, his mannerisms don’t at all resemble the ones seen above. So I’m almost suspicious of the video embedded here.
—Even though it’s hard to imaging a handsome professional football player remaining a virgin in this day and age, fact is, Christian religions (at least Catholicism—I know about that firsthand) can dictate that you remain a virgin till marriage. The fact that so few people do, yet consider themselves religious, make them sinners, as far as their religions go. And hypocrites otherwise.
Just for the record, I think this sort of religious teaching can really mess people up and can be at odds with healthy sexuality and human nature. But just the same, if he truly is religious and actually intends on following ALL the church rules (rather than the ones that are convenient), I can’t really fault him for that.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 8:52 PM
The people that I know that were virgins and waiting until they got married usually married at 18 or 19 because they couldn’t wait any longer.
Not saying that some don’t do it, but most of the religious friends/acquaintances got married early to cut some.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 8:55 PM
@Rob Good catch. Here’s one of his Florida press conferences. Much different: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mkDrCCPC8pI&feature=fvwp&NR=1
Wonder if the above video was edited. We know how much they can do with technology these days. I am suspecting a hoax.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 9:07 PM
The difference with this video, IMHO, is he is out if breath it seems as if the interview was right after him playing football. He doesn’t have the resilience to make sure his mannerisms don’t give him away. I knew he was gay years ago when he said he didn’t date women due to his morals… The Bible in no way forbids a man to go on a date.
It would be nice if he came out because America would have to deal with it’s staunch homophobia and no better way to do so then having your listed beloved sports figure be gay.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 9:08 PM
Um.. most beloved…
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 9:57 PM
Have to take issue with the article’s assertion that “the religiosity isn’t him” if it turns out he’s gay.
Of course the religiosity is still him, just like it still is Larry Craig and Ted Haggard and many (non-pedophile!) Catholic priests, including speculation about the current Pope. Some religious gays latch on to hyper-fundamentalism and clamp down on the sexual aspects of their attractions, others break with strict organized religions and embrace more reflective theologies, but they’re still religious.
Gay or not, Tim Tebow is still the guy who devoted his signing bonus to build a hospital in the Phillipines as an act of Christian charity. Gay or not, Tim Tebow cut an ad for Focus on the Family to run during the Super Bowl. Gay or not, Tim Tebow is pro-life and wants to think good things of his religious pro-life mom and organizations he’s be raised to endorse. Gay or not, Tim Tebow prays a lot. Gay or not, Tim Tebow seriously loves him some Jesus.
If he’s gay, dude has some major life decisions to make. I have no doubt a gay Tebow could make a future Michelle Bachmann ridiculously happy, while sublimating his own sexuality. I have no doubt a gay Tebow could be a wonderful father to a bunch of kids, either biological or adopted, in either a straight or gay relationship. I have no doubt a gay Tebow could face huge outpourings of hate from gay activists and evangelical activists both if he comes out in a way not in line with the relevant hard-line orthodoxies (are we ready for a gay scold who won’t have sex with his partner until he is gay-married?).
Tebow might be gay, but he is absolutely super-religious.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 10:59 PM
So, what’s the matter if he’s gay or not???? He’s a great athlete, I see him like any other male person. Whatever he does in his private life, should be private.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:01 PM
Of course, he’s gay. Not that that matters nor should it. At least he seems secure enough to not have to play big mister hetero in public. He’s content to save himself for the Lord or whatever. What I do get tired of is the gay community covering for obviously gay celebrities and athletes, etc., claiming they’re straight.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:05 PM
He’s just gay for pay.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:25 PM
LOL to all of the silly red neck minded people out there, having a lisp and broken wrist is NOT a pre requisite to being gay… in fact.. MORE and MORE butch acting footballer players are coming out. So is Teblow gay? I am pretty sure… not for wishful thinking…he’s ugly to me… BUT because the outspoke religious douchebaggery that goes on…to me the loudest person is the one who sucks the most cock. GAY RIGHTS FOR ALL!!! EVEN TEBLOW
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:25 PM
I saw a press conference on tv with Tebow. He was answering questions and someone asked him if he was dating this model. He said he wasn’t but when he was answering the question my gaydar went off. I tried to find the video on youtube but couldn’t. I think he is gay but just going by my gaydar.
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:32 PM
I am pretty sure if this kid was outed and it came to light he was gay… I bet in 5 minutes he would be kicked off the Broncos and vanish into history. Only a great PR spin master could keep him alive on Celebrity Rehab… sad so say or sound cynical but this world stopped evolving 10 years ago. The clock is spinning backward; thank you tea party.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 12:04 AM
Great piece. Awesome. Insightful. More of these.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 12:10 AM
And, you can think anybody is gay. There is nothing wrong it except maybe to some self-hating a-hole who flips out at the very word.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 12:15 AM
Good God, I HOPE Tim Tebow is NOT gay! It would give us gay men a bad reputation!
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 4:40 AM
Mormons and evangelicals who practice celibacy almost always marry young. A good looking athlete like Tebow would simply get the hottest single girl from his church, date for a very short time, and then marry asap. Tebow being aged 24 is suspiciously old in celibate Christian culture. …On the other hand, A.C Green and Steve Young waited until their careers were over to get married, and claimed to be celibate until then. However, neither of them had the “gay traits” of Tim Tebow, and the rumors about them were always about girls….Cyd, you should try to interview some of Tebow’s current and former teammates to find out if he he’s ever revealed any interest whatsoever in females….
Truth is that the guy acts like a pre-pubescent boy who really seems to have no inerest in anything sexual. I’ve just never seen anyone like him before…
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 5:56 AM
Gay or straight he seems like a good guy and I enjoy watching him play football.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 6:00 AM
He did a commercial for Focus on the Family and he refused to do an “It Gets Better” video. That is enough to let me know that he has no compassion or empathy for the LGBT community, even hurting,defenseless kids on the brink of suicide. In turn, my feelings of contempt toward the man stand.
As for him being gay- no. He is a closeted, self loathing homosexual. It takes BALLS to be gay. He doesn’t get to wear our title for any reason until he stops hating our community and condemning us from his pulpit. The guy is gearing up to be the next Ted Haggard- a hateful, self loathing evangelical televangelist who will hate on us until he gets caught with his pants down- LITERALLY.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 7:46 AM
So there are straight-acting gay men; there must be gay acting straight… Not that TT is either one of those…
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 8:48 AM
“I’m not a big fan of speculating about people’s sexual orientation, particularly athletes. I’ve heard wishful-thinking “rumors” about more athletes than I could fit in Mile High.”
You should have stopped right there.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 10:20 AM
Gay or straight he seems like a good guy and I enjoy watching him play football.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 10:46 AM
tebow set my gaydar off a year or so ago. definitely makes sense.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 11:34 AM
I grew up in a very conservative Lutheran household (WELS) and went to parochial school from K through 12. I knew I was different by age 12 and fought it until my mid 20′s before I accepted it. I did not persue a relationship until my mid thirties. I am not scarred. I still have my faith. I accept my homosexuality. I discovered myself in my own time and found help in my faith, not condemnation. It was difficult enough for me, but not devestating. I am at peace with who I am and love me for who I am and love God for allowing me the challenges that I’ve faced, because it is our challenges and triumphs that tell us who we are. If T is gay, and if he is discovering himself (or already has) I can only imagine how tough it is to be discovering these things and trying to reconcile them within his own faith and personal schema while the world analyzes his every word and hand gesture. If he ever comes out to persecute the LGBTQ community, THEN we should pay attention. Until then, let him grow as he needs to, and lets not add any more pressure than he already has to endure. Then again… he may be straight!
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 2:01 PM
Wow! Some people will stop at nothing to try and denigrate, insult and discredit someone they do not like. What difference does it make what you think and why do you insist on attacking someone who has never done anything to you? It really smacks of someone who is insecure with themselves and someone who can’t stand to see some people succeed.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 3:13 PM
@Nathan – It didn’t sound like he doesn’t like Tebow? And there’s nothing wrong with being gay so I don’t see how it could be considered an act of insult/discretionary/etc means by asking/asking if he is so.
From the comments above it’s implied that apparently Tebow does make an effort to single out the gay community (talking about how important family/children are, but then not making an It Gets Better ad or something like it, even if all he says is, “I think being gay is a sin/a person can’t be gay only have same-sex attractions which is a sin, but killing yourself is an even greater one and is not the answer” or whatever bullshit spin they want to put on it to help out LGBT* children) means the Tebow personally insists on attacking someone(s). (i.e. people who don’t fit his ideal of a decent person or whatever) such as the gay community, despite him not knowing all of us personally.)
It’d be one thing if he just said, “I’m religious” and kept it at that without putting his spirituality and beliefs out there and not being an active spokesperson for them. In being a public figure, especially one who seems set on making himself even more public than just what’s required of an athlete, I think that entitled sites like OutSports to the right to discuss his personal life, since he seems willing to do so in something as personal as his belief-system.
By your same logic, Tebow must have something to hide since he insists on sharing his opinions with us (which then implies/make explicit that he looks down on gays and other groups/religions that don’t submit to his own) then HE must be insecure with himself.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 3:31 PM
“If he is in fact gay, he may not know it.”
Sorry, but that’s a ludicrous statement. Even if Tebow is 100% celibate, he has certainly masturbated thousands of times. When he wacks to orgasm, he most likely isn’t fantasizing about pears or horsies or doughnuts – he’s thinking about nude men or women. He knows damn well what gets him off.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 6:56 PM
It might best serve everyone – Tebow, his family, friends, and fans to leave the ‘gay’ question alone. It is documented that more than one guy who found no peace with himself or his alleged homosexuality ended up hurting himself to the point of his loss and ours. Let us tread very lightly.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 7:10 PM
Nathan, get a life. Douche bag.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 7:17 PM
Gay is not an insult you p.o.s.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 8:56 PM
Cyd Z is a very very strange man — that we can be sure of.
Sissyphobic enough to spend his life butching up the image of gay men – then writing that real straight men never flame … oh Cyd.
Cyd …. Learn to love yourself you big girl.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 8:57 PM
Lol!!! RJP3 – what are you talking about? Lol!!! Bi-zarre.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 9:01 PM
Because he is so high strung – lets put Cyd’s exact sissyphobic words here:
1) Certainly there are many gay men who don’t fall into certain stereotypes; …I’ve found over time there are few straight men who do fall into them.
2) not every gay man flails his hands and talks with a slight lisp…there are just very few straight men who do
Religion and Society sure has left Cyd messed up —
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 9:03 PM
See I knew he would respond that way …. just was not quick enough….. you are who you are Cyd and the fact that you think few straight men act this way is SAD
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 9:05 PM
Cyd it is not that you dislike gay men — you just have an urealistic fascination with “straight” men and their stereotype of butchness … has bored me for years … but the work with sports keeps you useful
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 9:09 PM
RJP3, you completely misinterpret what I say. I am as far from “sissyphobic” as you could get. I embrace my inner queen and have no problem dressing in drag, listening to “gay” music, ordering the gayest drink imaginable in any bar, and being on the receiving end of sex. Whatever demons you’re dealing with, don’t bring me into it – ’cause you got it wrong here, sister.
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 9:30 PM
Great article, a great way to get hits on your website, hey I clicked, its hilarious you have no facts just conjecture, well played sir. BTW is The pope gay? fits in your argument, so f’ing retarded.!
on Jan 13th, 2012 at 11:29 PM
No, Cyd, you were wrong…this article is another snarky swipe at Tebow.
And to the assclown (I am talking to you Shannon1981) that thinks Tebow has to be closeted and self loathing because he “refused” to do a Its Gets Better video think about this. The Broncos organization as a whole said they were not going to do a video. I doubt Tebow was ever asked.
Here is a link to Rick O’Reilly (ESPN writer) on his take on Tebow. I think O’Reilly does a great job giving us the some insight Tebow’s life on and off the field.
http://espn.go.com/espn/story/_/id/7455943/believing-tim-tebow
I am sure it won’t dispell all the Tebow haters here from heaping on more venom and speculation about whether or not Tebow is gay.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 12:49 AM
Tim Tebow seems to really embrace life with alot of passion. He’s young and his ‘celebrity status’ must add stress to his everyday life. He seems nervous to me in his interviews……..yes my gaydar also goes off but more importantly he is most definitely a fine young man with a great attitude. It is what it is.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 12:52 AM
Terrible article.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 12:57 AM
If you read these articles, it’s hard not to see that Rick Reilly, USA Today, and others are suspecting the same thing, perhaps with sources hinting that to them. I believe those allies in the media are laying the foundation for an eventual coming out. I hope he loses tomorrow, if only to reduce the attention, which may become unbearable should the Broncos advance. Can we all agree that if he is gay and conflicted, there is a chance this could end in a tragedy?
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 4:34 AM
i think tebow will get caught in a bathroom or a hotel someday with a lover. i’m straight but i have excellent gaydar. he set mine off the second i saw him AND the whole super christian thing is soo obvious. any guy who needs everyone to know how christian he is this badly is doing it for a reason. to hide something. that’s a fact!
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 7:51 AM
Buccoman (#42), you picked in interesting comparitor in Steve Young. It is WELL KNOWN, even in Mormon circles, that Steve is a closeted ‘mo. I lived in SLC for a period of time, and one of my ski buddy friends was the son of an LDS Stake President. That’s pretty high up in Mormon circles. “Sonny” told me that his dad had talked with him about Steve Young in fact being gay, but that the church was “supporting” Young and would make sure that he got married and did all the right things. I had certainly heard rumors over the years that speculated on Steve Young’s sexual orientation, including some that I was reasonably sure were true (one story in particular from a gay caterer who had catered a party at Steve Young’s house–which seemed highly credible). But when the Stake President’s son told me what his father had said to him–and there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that that discussion took place just as indicated because my ski buddy friend and his dad were very close–I needed no more proof.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 10:02 AM
Tebow also is a southpaw, which increases the likelihood that he is gay.
Most righties are oblivious to this correlation, but the lefties who read this will understand.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 11:13 AM
Today on Yahoo: http://www.thepostgame.com/blog/dish/201201/tim-tebow-admits-bad-habit
For the record….when I was in my limbo stage I did not have time for a girlfriend either. The more scrutiny this guy gets the more it will become obvious. I also hope it does not end in a bad way. Perhaps he will be the great bridge for sports. He does have a lot of passion and heart. Hope this story ends well.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 11:22 AM
Well, Second Son (poster no. 68), it sounds a tad strange that an LDS stake prez would reveal that Steve Young was gay, even to his son. Still, it’s even stranger that Steve Young would wait until age 40 to get married. Mormons just don’t do that unless there are “issues,” like the person is “battling” homosexuality…As for Tebow, I sympathize with some of the posters on here who judge us for judging Tebow based on no hard evidence. It makes me uncomfortable. But the reality is that we speculate because Tebow presents very gay-like characteristics, which Cyd alludes to. Plus, there is not one hint of him ever having a girlfriend, even a church girl; I find that strange for a 24 year old guy who has vowed to be celibate until marriage. But it’s all speculation, and Cyd has written a speculative article that simply brings to light what a lot of people are thinking, fairly, or not. In any case, given his deep religious convictions, it is highly unlikely that Tebow would ever come out of the closet if, in fact, he is gay. He is going to do what perhaps Steve Young, and many other conflicted gay folk do, which is to succumb to their deep religious beliefs and “become” heterosexual, get married, and try to make it work….
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 12:34 PM
Dear Lord Cyd — as expected a little criticism is not handled well, and it can’t be you, it must be me who has “demons”. One more reason to never give your site hits.
So do few straight men like “gay” music and “gay” drinks and dress in drag or enjoy anal play? Get video of Tim in a disco with a cocktail — add that to the video of him lisping and waving his hands – and poof proof he must be gay ! Because few straight men do those things right Cyd – only the gays.
Awful article with awful Cyd Z quotes …. imho
And just because I am critical of you does not mean I have “demons” …. you are not that special or perfect Cyd.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 12:36 PM
Oh btw … I am not a fan of the self-rightous elitist Tim Tebow either.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 1:45 PM
Ok..maybe he is gay. But their is nothing wrong with being gay and Christian. Their is nothing wrong with embracing his christianity publically and keeping his private life, Private. If you are looking for a gay football spokesman he does not want to be it, and he does not have to be.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 2:16 PM
Ha!
Since Tebow beat my Steelers he needs to just beat everyone else for this to be truly seen as a divine intervention(which probably WON’T happen).
I need Tebow vs. Rodgers(also purported to be a friend of Aikman). That coupled with Kelly Clarkson singing the National Anthem and Madonna doing the halftime show this is going to be
THE GAYEST SUPERBOWL EVER!!!
Rejoice my people REJOICE!
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 4:03 PM
RJP3,
You’re a lunatic.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 4:19 PM
Great article Cyd.. I don’t know if Tim Tebow is gay or night , I just can’t understand so much hate from so many people towards him.. too religious, gay & not out, let him play football and let him be himself, whatever that will be.
on Jan 14th, 2012 at 7:12 PM
Cyd – great article, and I love your perspective about Tebow: that he is young, sheltered, and – if closeted – to be pitied.
Dustin Lance Black recently gave an interview explaining his understanding about J. Edgar Hoover’s undefined sexuality. Simply put: even though Hoover was not gay by today’s standards, if you look at his behavior given the context of his upbringing and society at the time, everything about his life points to the fact that he gay. Even his sexlessness.
I think the same can be said about Tebow. If we looks at his behavior within his doubly-closeted world of Christian Evangelicals, and US Professional Athletics, I don’t know how anyone can see him as being anything but gay.
Although not about athletes, I also recommend that anyone reading this article see the 2009 documentary OUTRAGE which chronicles how closeted gay (& often married) politicians are often extremely homophobic, and vote far more often against gay rights laws as a way to cover their homosexuality.
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 1:00 AM
Questions which is worse:
01) Tim Tebow is a flaming Homo
02) Who is Tim Tebow
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 1:05 AM
I love that Cyd Ziegler embraces his inner-queen! I completely see that and he’s far from a guy who bully’s effeminate gay guys. That’s why I like this web site so much.
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 1:44 AM
I don’t think he is gay. I have pretty astute gaydar, and I’m not picking up on it. I have many friends and family that come from the evangelical, home schooled variety (I am not one of them), and TT’s behavior really isn’t that different from many of the guys I’ve known who were raised in that environment. It seems to me that he was raised more in the company of men, and may not be entirely comfortable around women.
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 2:02 AM
spectacular article. as someone who struggled with the same issues as the author, i must say that i do indeed see the same tell-tale signs as the author. even in the church and at the most ardent campus crusade meetings, there still existed a form of heterosexuality/heteronormativity that tim tebow — from what little i’ve seen and read — has exhibited. my roommate in college stood out as one of the athletic super-Christians in our group and although he rarely drank and never partied with the rest of us as we matriculated through a school in the same ilk as university of florida, my roommate always had a girl on his arm and a trail of broken hearts behind him. it’s wierd for anyone — gay or straight — to reach tebow’s age without even a whiff of sexual experience. that’s what begs the question here.
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 6:39 AM
Great, another article on Tebow.
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 9:55 AM
so this critique will be a gay thing…
All these “is he gay” pieces of evidence mean nothing unless he actually comes out. Until then it is just a bit of a witch hunt by a queer community that is either pissed off at religion or just thinks guys in football uniiforms are hot.
I also wonder if the author, and queers in general, remember those times before they came out when people would whisper… and talk about your walk… or your index finger or your voice and how these clues FOR SURE meant you were gay. NOT the best feeling.
It seems that in an era when we are watch young people kill themselves because it doesn’t get better, or even other athletes killing themselves because they were outed (Justin Fashnu…respect) that perhaps this kind of gossipy discourse is inappropriate and dangerous.
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 10:23 AM
Hi Buccoman, well it sounds strange, but it’s not any less true. I was actually very close with the Stake President’s son and we skied together regularly (I was on ski-batical at the time so my 9-5 “job” that winter, or more properly my 10:00-3:30 “job” was racking up vertical at the ski area). The Stake President’s son told me me a lot of things–for whatever reason he deeply trusted me even knowing that I was not a Mormon, which is not something that typically happens between Mormons and non-Mormons. But he had deep conflicts about his belief in the church. I also think for him I was a safety valve and sounding board, someone he could share his innermost dialogues with, safely, and often we had fairly wide-ranging philosophical/life discussions. While I’ve since lost touch with him, I’m more than willing to bet that he did not “fall into line” as his life had been laid out for him, but rather ended up going in a different direction that his family likely would not have approved of. He was 23-year old college student at the time, but I highly doubt he became a Mormon clone.
I had also heard from some others (specifically a gay skier that I met at Whistler’s gay ski week, who lived in No. Cal. and skied regularly in the Tahoe area) that Steve Young in fact had been in a gay relationship. I have no idea to know if that’s true or not, but the guy I spoke with did not come across as someone who was simply passing gossip. Who knows though.
But I think Cyd’s analysis is spot-on here, and while I had not previously considered that Tim Tebow might in fact be gay, I’m more of the opinion now that he is gay. And by the way, contrary to some of those on here who think he may not know it yet, I’m sure that if he’s gay, he knows it but is instead trying to “pray the gay away.” It will be interesting to see what happens. But I now believe that it’s far more likely than not that Tebow is a struggling closeted gay man.
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 10:34 AM
who’s genuflecting now? time to get on BOTH knees Timbo
on Jan 15th, 2012 at 3:30 PM
just read the whole thing.
and currently rolling my eyes and dismissing this as another anti-Tebow snark piece.
i guess it’s all about page hits, and i’m sure you’ll get ‘em. but this is beneath you. kinda shameful. are we really still writing “is he gay?” pieces?
on Jan 16th, 2012 at 11:24 AM
This can only end badly for Tebow if he is gay. Most of the evidence points to him not having enough accuracy to lead a team to the super bowl. He will lose the devout fans who forgive his miscues and get some serious ridicule for his inability to take the team to the next level and for being gay. As a lifelong football I see Tebow as the perfect wildcat quarterback or playing an h-back role like Aaron Hernandez with the twist of being able to throw after he gets the toss from the quarterback. Once his role switches and the attention diminishes he could be fine coming out if he were gay. But if anything came out while he was still a quarterback, the avalanche off the field would bury him in stress and distractions. Of course, it’s all speculation but isn’t that the basis for 50% of sports journalism. True or not I think Cyd did a fine job of humanizing the situation and writing an article worth reading.
on Jan 16th, 2012 at 12:15 PM
J.B. Please keep us advised if he is caught humming show tunes at practice then we will know for sure.
on Jan 16th, 2012 at 3:04 PM
Hey Tim (#87), it’s only anti-Tebow if you think gay is a bad thing. Get over yourself.
If Tebow *is* gay—and it’s no great stretch to imagine so, especially with that theory that the real Tebow is exposed when he’s so excited about that play that he smooches the player—he’s got a tough road ahead of him. Everyone, and I mean everyone, in his family and professional lives will be pressuring him NOT to be who he really is.
He’ll choose money and career over happiness. He’ll choose religion over being who he is. He’ll choose everyone else’s expectations over his own character.
Until he doesn’t, which may never happen.
on Jan 16th, 2012 at 3:04 PM
As for all of you bandying about “flaming homo” and showtunes-humming and all of that crap?
Cut it the fuck out.
Would you do the same kind of stereotyping for racial slurs?
on Jan 16th, 2012 at 6:37 PM
Shame. Off limits to bring a person’s sexual orientation into debate. If a person wants to talk about it themselves, that’s cool and that’s healthy. This? This is human rights taking a step backwards.
on Jan 17th, 2012 at 1:48 AM
Bullshit! When it comes to Aikman and Tebow, the few white athletes in the NFL, A poll on the sexiest NBA players with white players & criticism of black bloggers as disgusting when a gay Latino blogger posts shit like this all a brutha can say is I see Racism in flex. I don’t care if Tebow is gay or not. He loves God, helps the sick & affirmed. He donates to HIV/AIDS causes. His foundation helps AIDS orphans & devotes his spare time to doing God’s work. Do I want gay rights? Yes, but anyone that devotes his life to the least amongst of us regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, orientation or illness is a definite friend of mine. Those who criticize those that do God’s work…be it gay, straight or trysexual are demented.
on Jan 17th, 2012 at 4:53 AM
So let me get this right. You’re now accusing the white author of this article of being racist against a white quarterback? You have a problem Mr. Jackson.
As for saying “those who criticize those that do God’s work are demented”, have you actually listened to the likes of Rick Warren, Margaret Court, Pat Robertson, etc. Their anti-gay sentiments would make Martin Luther King turn over in his grave. I guarantee you he would be criticizing them if he were here today. I guess you’d call him demented as well.
on Jan 17th, 2012 at 9:56 AM
Long ago politician rats decided to change the word “GUY” to “GAY”. Once they had their new special interest group we all lost what is important. Tim Tebow is a GUY. Now hear this, folks. In his infinite wisdom God sends into the world GUYS who seek women and marry them and continue the human race with babies. And he also sends into the world GUYS who need other GUYS. In whatever form, God is endlessly in love with all of his GUYS. He hears the prayers of all GUYS. I am proud to say I see the beauty of all GUYS as they image God himself. Tim Tebow, last i looked, is a GUY. He is a beautiful GUY. Endowed with talent still to be developed, he praises God and God loves him. Are you getting the message yet? All you who cannot stop changing that wonderful word GUY into GAY, step back and realize how totally irrelevant labels are. And, by the way, no GUY is obligated to ever tell if he was created to love women or men. This is a personal choice only. If anyone is still in the dark about this I would be happy to help you understand it more fully. You can message me at kodak.bill@gmail.com and meanwhile I will continue to see the magnificent creature fashioned by God who goes by the name of Tim Tebow!
on Jan 17th, 2012 at 11:23 AM
Leave the kid alone!
on Jan 20th, 2012 at 3:12 AM
I will second that, LEAVE THE KID ALONE! If he is a closeted gay man I can’t imagine the stress he must be under with everyone in the USA speculating about his love life. Heck it is bad enough for me when my coworkers ask about mine. Just let him play football!
on Jan 20th, 2012 at 7:37 PM
I told Tim that just screwing around once in a while didn’t make him gay. So no, he’s not “gay,” but he’s fun!
on Jan 20th, 2012 at 11:19 PM
Great piece and a great treatment of this subject in particular. Instead of sounding like a pop website “what if,” you approached it from an introspective and thoughtful evaluation of the potential impact. Loved it.
on Jan 22nd, 2012 at 2:58 PM
Oh please- he is and if he’s not with all those roids shot in him he must be beating off 10 times a day poor thing…
on Jan 23rd, 2012 at 1:10 AM
Tim Tebow is sooo cute. I’d carry his balls for him any day…
on Jan 23rd, 2012 at 10:29 AM
“Oh please- he is and if he’s not with all those roids shot in him he must be beating off 10 times a day poor thing…”
I thought they actually decreased libido and virtility.
on Jan 23rd, 2012 at 8:18 PM
You know it is possible for him to be gay and a Christian so his whole “My Lord and Savior” bit may be genuine. I am an atheist by the way.
on Jan 25th, 2012 at 4:40 AM
There IS no divide between the gays and fundamentalists. By our nature, it would be an embarrassment, not to mention, the Mormon church taught soem of us a lot. We don’t care about them. Please get your facts, faiths and philosophies straight, or at least right, or rather- correct. thx
on Jan 29th, 2012 at 11:17 PM
This belongs in a blog…not an article.
on Jan 30th, 2012 at 8:46 PM
Who cares?
Gays will just say, there goes another one.
The religious right will just blame the godless liberals for changing him, and then totally forget he existed.
I am a gay who has been around awhile, and have slept with my share of preachers, mormons, military men, and semi-professional athletes. Men are men, gay or straight, too bad our world dictates (no pun intended) how they have to be or act.
Its funny, I am masculine and “normal” acting guy, and people always tell me they never would have guessed, and I say, I am sorry should I have lisped it up for you, or added a few hand gestures?
on Feb 4th, 2012 at 12:42 PM
I agree with most of the side of,leaving the mate alone. It matters not if Tim is gay or not. What dies matter,is that he and only he is happy in his life,and living the life he wants to live. If mist people would take the time to devout their energy on things that really matter…i.e. giving time to charitable causes..we would all be better off.
on Feb 5th, 2012 at 2:07 AM
Wow, this article is an absolute joke. Being a closeted gay man myself, it disgusts me to see a guy labeled like this. Leave the speculation behind, let him be who he wants to be, and get a freaking life. If you don’t have better things to do than to speculate about an athletes sexual orientation, then you have some serious issues.
Also, just because you are gay doesn’t mean you can’t have a relationship with God as well. I believe in God, I’m gay, and I pray every day; Joel Osteen (arguably America’s most famous pastor) believes gays will be allowed in Heaven; and finally, if you are gay, you know that it is not a choice.
It gets old to hear that we are born this way, but that is simply the truth of the matter. If it were up to me, I would have chosen to be straight for the simple fact that my life would have been a whole lot easier, but I’m not, so I’ve got to live with what God made me and live my life honestly and fully.
on Feb 5th, 2012 at 12:55 PM
of course if he wasn’nt hot no one would give a shit what he did. Why must every faggot insist that hot athletes,actors etc…somehow be suffering in sme gay closet, waiting to come out just for them? Desperate queenies are so pathetic.
on Feb 6th, 2012 at 4:22 AM
Lucas
on Jan 12th, 2012 at 11:50 AM
Cyd, if Tebow were gay and in the closet, he would not be seen dead kissing a guy. So, either he’s out to those he cares about, or he’s a straight guy secure in his sexuality (and not particularly homophobic). In either case, we should let him be.
And there lies my point. John 3:16 had to do with acceptance.
on Feb 6th, 2012 at 4:23 AM
Watch him closely. He’s not ignorant, and he cares.
on Feb 9th, 2012 at 1:00 AM
If Tim Tebow was gay, then he’d be a gay Christian… Yes you can be homosexual, and a Christian; because real Christians know god has hate for no one, and Jesus turned no one away who wanted to know him. And even saved the life of a Roman soldier’s male lover.
Many people today are very silly. Two men who are very close and affectionate with each other, does not equate homosexuality. My best buddy who I also served with in the military, who is also on my fight team (MMA)- are extremely close and affectionate with each other.
We kiss each other (no tongue in the mouth) all the time, hug, hold each other, sleep next to each other. We don’t care where we are, or who is around us- and the only reason why we had to keep that toned down in the military; was due to his position which was higher than mine. So such behavior would have been seen as unfair- as he would have been seen to be showing me favoritism over the other men- which ultimately would have been seen as unprofessional.
Neither one of us has the desire to have sex with each other.
on Feb 9th, 2012 at 1:20 AM
@Tessie Tura
Your experience, is not everyone’s experience. I really can’t stand when gay people do that. Some Christians screw up here and there; doesn’t mean you’re gonna go to hell- it just means you made a mistake oops learn from the mistake and move on to become stronger and never judge another person.
We live in an age where is nearly impossible to hide anything, if you live in the public life. If Tim Tebow messed about with a woman, and especially a man- we would have found out like yesterday.
When he talks about his faith, and charity- if you’re good at reading people, (and no I don’t mean that gaydar BS). You’d be able to tell that he truly does love what he does and his faith- which mostly comes from how he could have ended up which he’s stated.
Then he does practice what he preaches, and has stated he keeps the right kind of people around him- people who hold him accountable for his actions. That’s a pretty mature thing, and if he truly is practicing what he believes in- then he’s waiting for the right girl to give his virginity to… There are men and women of Christian faith who live like that, just because you did what you did- does not mean the next person will.
Mannerisms do not tell a person’s sexuality. I know guys who are quite feminine but are straight as hell. If Tebow was gay, but was trying to hide it due to his faith; or wanting to uphold an image of purity… There is absolutely no way in hell he’d allow anyone to see him kissing another man, because he’d only do it behind closed doors; not for all to see.
His affectionate behavior with his best friend, who is also his housemate- is very typical of male athletes who also have a brotherly love. The guy he’s shown kissing- was asked about that, and he replied how the only men he’s ever kissed and do kiss are his father, and Tim.
on Feb 16th, 2012 at 10:06 PM
Well….
After watching the video of him reading “Green Eggs and Ham”, I wonder how the jury can still be out?
He has been in several interviews, both in print and video, where Tim is asked about his personal life. The simple truth is, in every clip I have seen, he has used gender neutral terms such as “someone” or somebody. I have never heard him use the term “girlfriend”.
I think Tebow knows he is gay, and to make matters worse, I think his family (he lives with his brother) knows this too. They would stop at nothing to keep him in denial.
I think his life may be at stake. He is being constrained and controlled by people who care more about his image, than his happiness.
I wish there was something Outsports or sympathetic fans could do to help him, but any effort would no doubt make life more difficult for him.
It’s starting to break my heart, and I pray that he finds the support system and friendships necessary to take the brave first steps out of the closet.
on Feb 21st, 2012 at 5:50 PM
For the person that said he’s never seen a manly Jesus lover..how about Josh Hamilton *baseball palyer*..he’s pretty manly right?
on Feb 23rd, 2012 at 1:36 AM
Who cares if a “celebrity” is gay or not? What someone does in their personal life is their own business. I hate to see anyone repress who they are because of fame, religion, family, or any other reason, but everyone I know who is gay comes out when it is right for them. Tim Tebow is an amazing athlete and from what I hear, a truly good person. Leave it at that. I know we are all curious just to know one way or another, but I say let him be. Until he publicly comes out as gay or starts preaching against homosexuality, I think he is a grown man who can make his own choices on his personal life.
on Mar 19th, 2012 at 7:10 PM
Tebow is left handed his hand gestures are just awkward and he sounds nervous speaking in front of a crowd here, I heard him speak on tv and sounds calm and poised.
Nope I don’t care if he is gay he isn’t sleeping in my bed like Goldie locks…
If he is gay let him come Out on his own terms
on Mar 21st, 2012 at 11:21 PM
I would be happy if he is gay, but gay or not, I have moved from being quite hostile towards him for his religious displays to being sympathetic. He was viewed as an awful choice for quarterback in Denver. Many said and still say that he is not NFL material. As chance would have it, he was forced to take over as the starting quarterback because the two in front of him were injured. What happened? He won, and he do so with grace and humility. He could have responded with some hyperjock in-your-face attitude, but he didn’t. He earned the affection of Denver’s fans and his coach recognized that he had to work to Tim’s strengths rather than his weaknesses. I found myself cheering for him rather than hoping for his inevitable failure.
He is gay or he is not. I don’t care because either way, he has shown himself to be a man of honor and a man who is generous with praise and stingy with criticism or blame. Now that he has been pushed out by Peyton Manning, I wish him well. If he ends up with the Jets, I might find myself cheering for him despite the company in which he finds himself. He has won me over with his character and his grace in handling the burden of low expectations by so many others. Wherever he goes, I hope that his new team will recognize him as a good person and a good leader.
Let’s all leave him be.
on Mar 23rd, 2012 at 12:26 PM
It is quite possible Tim Tebow is gay. He certianly sets off my “gaydar”. I have seen him to interviews and also heard him on the radio. I get the feeling from just audio as well as from the visual of video. I normally think that someone’s sexual orientation and whether they come out is up to them. But when one is anti-gay and wears their faith on their sleeve, it changes a bit. Celibacy and not having sex until marriage is a faith ideal. But it is one that is substantially less real than it is professed to be. Most Christian’s that I know have had sex prior to marriage. It may not be discussed openly in many circles but the percentage of Christians engaging in sex is about the societal norm. What Tim may not know is that there is a change in many mainstream Christian denominations that are opening the doors and welcoming in gay Christians. There are more than 5000 welcoming and affirming congregations in the U.S. There are Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, Episcopal and many non-denominational churches. If he is gay he can also be a Christian. But he would need to get past the self hatred that many Christian destinations push off on people as fact. If homosexuality is the cardinal sin that it is supposed to be, why did Christ never say anything against it? Divorce is condemned in the Bible more than sexual acts between same sex people.
on Mar 25th, 2012 at 2:43 PM
I swear gay guys are the most annoying people on the planet. You look for reasons to call another guy gay to make yourselves feel better.
You’re all insecure, crazy, and you act like little stupid ass girls. Who he chooses to love and have sex with is his business. Why don’t you all go back to your nasty ass gay clubs and spread more STDs in your DISGUSTING community and let people be who they want to be?
on Mar 26th, 2012 at 5:13 PM
One thing that’s rarely mentioned is that Tebow is left-handed and a higher percentage of male lefty’s are gay.
After much thought, I feel sorrow to Tim. I’ve come to the conclusion that he built this image while he was in school and college and now can’t see a way out. His choice to go to the Jets, where he knows everything he does will be monitored on a level he’s never experienced, may just be a subconsious attempt to get caught and extricate himself from this mess. Unlike many, I don’t believe being gay and religious have to be mutually exclusive — Tim has to reconcile that and much more.
on Mar 27th, 2012 at 3:05 PM
I’ve got nothing against gay people at all, but I swear some gay people are bloody effin stupid as hell! Not to mention phony…
All this rubbish talk about “feeling sorry for him”, or “how he hates the gay community” RUBBISH! The gay community is shittier to each other than anyone else! Which is why there are many gay men out there, who keep out of it.
Gaydar is also BS, there is no such thing- and the people who believe in it, are delusional morons; who want to feel special. As I mentioned I’ve come across many guys who are feminine, or so secure in their sexuality and masculinity- and aren’t afraid to be affectionate with other guys… Which is normal, especially in the sports world… who are heterosexual- and have encountered gays who thought they had gaydar, and tried to get with them- but were surprisingly disappointed.
Just because the guy is a Christian, and his faith says homosexuality is a sin… DOES NOT MEAN HE HATES GAYS. He’s never said anything hateful about anyone… And as I said- gays are nastier and hateful to each other as is.
Its quite sick and sad, that people in the media mock this guy- or you have a bunch of silly gays speculating if he’s gay, in the closet, or whatever rubbish- and nobody talks about the great charity work he does- for kids who have absolutely nothing, and or are sick… Do any of you give up time in your day to help others out in need?
And even if the guy was gay, none of you would still like him.. Because he’d be like some of the gay friends I have- who while are not ashamed of their sexuality- keep away from the gay world, as they find it destructive, degrading, disrespectful, and depressing… And they believe in god, and know god does not hate them
on Mar 27th, 2012 at 3:31 PM
@JJ
Sorry but that’s all rubbish.
Tebow was traded first of all, he didn’t have a choice on what team to go to. If he wants to continue the sport he loves, and make money- which he’s said in the past, allows him to do a lot of the charity work he does; then he was going to have to go on with it.
Second, he’s talked about what made him get into his faith.. It was because of what could have happened to him before he was born. He said that had a huge impact on him- the fact he could have died, been a tumor and not a baby at all- or be born with a load of health defects- and not only is he none of those things- but a healthy strong guy.
The other thing which made him become Christian- was what he saw when he first started going with his parents when they’d do missionary work (which he still does)- and he saw some of the kids who had/have next to nothing, or very little- or health problems… So he was a Christian, and very in love with it long before college.
He’s also stated how he keeps the right kind of people around him- people who hold him accountable, and acknowledges how it is hard, and how you can make mistakes- but its mostly about who you keep around you… That’s a very mature, and wise attitude that people older than him even lack.
Tebow’s behaviors and love for what he does- doesn’t surprise me, and doesn’t make me wonder about his sexuality. I know guys who behave like him, guys who are so big into doing what they do, and don’t think about sex or even getting into relationships with anyone.. If they are good men, they behave like Tebow. If they are bad men they are quite sadist, very cold, anti-social. Though Tebow is a good guy, no one; male or female- would be too happy to be in a relationship with the guy- because of all of the stuff he’s constantly doing- they’d kinda be left behind.
Unless however that person was into the same things he’s into (charity wise/faith wise). I’m the same way with my own work, I had girls who liked me in school/college, but I was so very into my work, and had said the right kind of girl for me would be someone more aligned with what I was into, so we could pretty much be a team- I’m 30 now, and have that, and its an awesome thing.
The only person who knows if he’s gay- is god and him himself, along with anyone very close to him he may have confided in- none of us will know unless he himself makes it public. So sitting online speculating, and assuming, based on BS gaydar theory is useless.
on Apr 8th, 2012 at 11:55 AM
All people have to do is ask his former Gator Teammates what went on in the lockeroom in FL. Knowing one of his former Teammates I can tell you that Tebow might not have had sex with women before but he is no virgin.
on Apr 8th, 2012 at 10:26 PM
I had been hearing so much about this Tim Tebow guy, and his little kneeling/praying thing that he does. But I finally saw and heard him for the first time a few weeks ago in a news clip, and the FIRST thing that hit me was “OMG, does anyone realize this guy is GAY?”.
on Apr 8th, 2012 at 11:29 PM
It’s only a matter of time now….
(According to the story) Moses led his people out of bondage. Could it be possible that there be such a thing as a gay chosen one? A man who understands the spirit of God, and who leads the world into a great awakening in the common humanity within us all?
Radical ideology? Religious nonsense?
I think the odds are good either way.
I think Tim Tebow sees himself as a modern day prophet, preparing the world for a day when Leviticus is finally cast aside, and the gospel of Jesus (love thy neighbor) takes over from the dogma which clouds the minds and hearts of so many narrow minded people.
on Apr 9th, 2012 at 6:12 AM
I actually wondered about Tebow the first time I heard his voice and way of speaking…he has a high voice and a way of speaking that really do sound gay to me.
on Apr 13th, 2012 at 5:38 AM
Thank you for this article. There are several very good points. I brought this up to my friends and family last year and they all think I’m being ridiculous. But I actually think a lot of good will come out if he actually comes out. I agree that he may not even realize he is gay.
on Apr 13th, 2012 at 11:32 AM
omg the nerve of some people why would tim tebow be gay i mean really come on you are really going to believe the lies that some people put out on the internet and articles. They do it just to get attention and bring people down
on Apr 13th, 2012 at 2:12 PM
Tebow comes off as gay to me, but it’s up to him whether he wants to hide it or not. Gay or straight or in-between, he’s still a total stud.
on Apr 26th, 2012 at 9:20 AM
When I first saw him I just wanted him to give me a lap dance. When I first heard him I wondered if he was gay. I hope he gets better as a QB. He’s fuckin hot!!! I went to a big football school and division 1A athletes have pussy thrown at them ALL day and nite! If ur saved that’s cool, but likely he would have gotten married already for many reasons not just to finally have sex. He’s a cutie, with money and a career and a college degree and strong moral values…a church girls dream! so why does he not even have a girlfriend with the same values? That makes me wonder a little. They must really joke him in the lockers. But if you really are waiting I tip my hat to ya Mr. Tebow.
on May 17th, 2012 at 11:55 AM
Hello all! I just heard, through some friends, that there’s som scuttlebutt going about saying that Tim Tebow is gay.
Okay! Mazel Tov for HIM!! Coming out as gay!!
WAIT!! You say he HASN’T?! OY! The poor sonofabitch!
WHY do all y’all insist on ‘outing’ someone? A; if said person actually IS gay, isn’t it THEIR possession of their sexuality, one way or another, to share with the world? B; fuck you.
Tim Tebow is sexy. Tim Tebow is handsome. Tim Tebow is one hell of an athlete.
Would I like to be sitting next to him on a fairly empty train, when the power cuts, and we’re stuck there in the dark? YES!! If he were, uh, STRAIGHT?! YES!! I do, yes, think he is sexy. I do NOT, however find his sex appeal, to ME, in the thought of his POSSIBLY being gay. I DO find his sex appeal, to me, in his physical appearance (duh !!), and his eyes (yum!), but most of all, I find him the MOST attractive to me in his comfort! That’s the comfort he has in, of, and for himself, pertaining to his Christianity, athleticism, and strength of character!!
THAT, my friends, is what I find sexiest of ALL!!
Is he gay? Who cares, and is it ANY of OUR business?
Mr. Tebow, would you care to tithe?
God Bless, and le Chaim!