Iain Armitage Addresses Speculation About His Sexuality
The 'Young Sheldon' star, 18, shared how he responds to public interest in his personal life.
Iain Armitage, the 18-year-old star of the CBS sitcom "Young Sheldon," has addressed public speculation regarding his sexuality. In a statement shared for a new book about the show, Armitage discussed how he navigates personal questions from fans and the public.
Speaking with Jessica Radloff for "Young Sheldon: The (Juicier-Than-Meemaw’s-Brisket) Inside Story of the Hit Comedy," Armitage explained that he receives a range of assumptions about his personal life, including being in relationships with co-stars like McKenna Grace or being gay. "As it is, in real life I’ve also gotten everything from people thinking I’m dating specific people, like McKenna [Grace], or people thinking I’m gay," he was quoted as saying.
Armitage, who was cast as the titular Sheldon Cooper at age eight, shared his methods for responding to such inquiries. When asked directly about his sexuality, particularly by men, he has employed playful responses. "If it’s a guy asking if I’m gay, I’ll say, ‘Not for you.’ Or ‘I haven’t found the right guy yet,’" he revealed. He also utilizes deflection, responding to questions about dating or relationships with humor or by stating the information is private.
"Young Sheldon," a spinoff of "The Big Bang Theory," concluded its run in May 2024. The show, which debuted in 2017, followed Sheldon Cooper's childhood in Medford, Texas, and was narrated by Jim Parsons, who originated the adult character on "The Big Bang Theory." Parsons reprised his role for the series finale alongside Mayim Bialik, who played Amy Farrah Fowler.
Parsons, 53, has previously spoken about his own experiences during the filming of "The Big Bang Theory," which ran from 2007 to 2019. He described parts of that period as "miserable" and "stressful," attributing it in part to an obsessive work ethic and a desire to balance his professional success with personal well-being. He noted that he felt he missed out on significant aspects of life during those years due to his intense focus on his career.