‘The Challenge’ star Paulie Calafiore comes out as bisexual
Paulie Calafiore openly discussed his sexual orientation following his elimination from the popular MTV show, “The Challenge: USA.” In an interview with GLAAD, the former “Big Brother” contestant revealed, “I identify as bisexual.” Calafiore expressed some guilt, admitting that it took him a while to come to terms with his sexuality. However, he recognized the importance of sharing his story, stating, “There may be others going through the same experience, and perhaps my openness will inspire them to embrace their truth.” He also acknowledged that his revelation could impact younger individuals who may feel pressured to hide their true selves due to societal expectations, particularly in the athletic world.
Calafiore’s confession about his sexual orientation came after his elimination on episode three of “The Challenge.” Prior to this, he had subtly hinted at his struggles with sexuality on the show. As a result of his athletic background, the reality star admitted to suppressing his true identity, unsure of his attractions and focused on presenting himself as the epitome of masculinity.
Following his announcement, Calafiore expressed gratitude for the support he received from fans and the opportunity to share his journey on the MTV show. In an Instagram post, he expressed his appreciation, stating, “I am overwhelmed with gratitude and humbled by the love and support I have received. Although my time on the show was cut short, I am thrilled that I was able to reveal another layer of my authentic self and my personal growth.” He concluded his post by saying, “I finally feel seen and liberated ❤️.”
Paulie Calafiore got candid about his sexual orientation after being eliminated from MTV’s “The Challenge: USA.”
“I am bisexual,” the former “Big Brother” contestant told GLAAD Friday.
“I almost felt guilty that it’s taken me this long,” he continued, recalling how he made the shift to decide to come out.
“I really had to change my perspective and be like, ‘Well, you know there might be other people that are going through this exact same thing… and maybe this is what they needed to hear and what they needed to see in order to do it themselves.’”
Calafiore added, “Maybe there’s a younger version of me somewhere who gets to see this and [says], ‘You know what? I don’t have to pretend to be this because I’m an athlete.’”
The reality star, who has been dating fellow “Challenge” alum Cara Maria Sorbello for five years, subtly spoke on his struggles with sexuality on the show before his elimination in episode three.
“I came through athletics, so that forced me to repress who I was, sexually,” Calafiore, 34, shared.
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“I didn’t know if I was attracted to women, attracted to men, or if it was just like an energy thing. I’d be like, ‘I need to prove that I’m the most alpha human in the world.’”
In an Instagram post Friday, the athlete doubled down on his gratitude for his time on the MTV show and the support he garnered after coming out as bisexual.
“My heart is bleeding with gratitude. My soul is burning with humility,” he wrote alongside a screenshot of GLAAD’s article about the news.
“I’m so sad I had an early exit but I am so happy that I was able show you another layer to myself and my journey.
Concluding his heartfelt post, Calafiore wrote, “I finally feel seen and free ❤️.”
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