James Graham, nabuhay nang may dalawang pagkatao bago ang matapang na pag-amin

• James Graham reflected on the emotional struggles she faced before coming out to her family as part of the LGBTQIA++ community
• The Sparkle artist admitted she felt exhausted from living two different lives around friends and relatives
• A heartfelt message from one of her aunts became one of the biggest sources of comfort after she publicly came out
• James is now pursuing a nursing degree in the United States while continuing to inspire others through her story

James Graham has opened up about one of the most emotional chapters of her life, revealing the personal struggles she endured before finally embracing her authentic identity with both her family and the public.

Speaking with GMANetwork.com, the Sparkle talent shared that hiding who she truly was became an emotional burden that grew heavier over time. According to James, pretending to be someone else left her feeling as though she was constantly denying herself.

Read also

"I almost didn't post this": Gee Canlas, may makabuluhang post tungkol sa pagsubok sa buhay

"When I came out to them, I think it's because I felt like I was growing up like lying to myself. It hurt every single day. As the day goes by, it kinda just hurts, like hiding who I actually am," she said.

Although she was already comfortable expressing herself around close friends, James admitted that she continued presenting a different version of herself whenever she was with her family. The contrast eventually became too exhausting to maintain.

"So I came out to my family because I was like, 'Why am I kinda like two-sided, like bakit may dalawa akong personality? In front of my friends and in front of my family? Why can't I just be one?'" she shared.

Before speaking publicly, James had already confided in several relatives. However, many people first learned about her journey through a TikTok video where she appeared with a more feminine look while lip-syncing to Ace of Base's "The Sign." The video carried the caption, "Start the new life you always wanted."

Despite worrying about how others would react, James said one message from her aunt immediately eased many of her fears.

"She was like, 'I'm so glad na nag-come-out ka. You're so brave'," James recalled.

Read also

Lovi Poe officially joins Star Magic, eyes dream FPJ-inspired project

She later explained that her aunt had long known about her identity and welcomed her with love instead of judgment.

"She was just very nice. She told me that I was beautiful and I don't have to be scared anymore," she added.

Reflecting on everything she experienced, James offered words of encouragement to her younger self, believing every painful experience eventually led her to where she was meant to be.

"Everything that is happening to you right now, everything that was happening to you, it's always led you to where you're meant to be. You didn't have to be afraid of anything because it has led you to where you wanted to be, where you're meant to be," she said.

She also shared how embracing her true identity transformed the way she viewed herself.

"You're gonna start loving yourself, taking care of yourself more, and thinking about yourself more. But you will never forget kindness and compassion."

James has been living in the United States since February 2025, where she is pursuing a nursing degree while continuing to inspire supporters with her journey. Before relocating, she gained recognition through her performances in the GMA series Love at First Read, Royal Blood, and Widows' War.

Read also

As we left the church after our wedding, my husband carried his mom instead of me – Chaos ensued

James David Graham is a Filipino-American actor who gained recognition after debuting as part of GMA Network's Sparkle Teens roster. He is best known for his role as Louie Castor in the murder mystery series Royal Blood and its follow-up drama Widows' War.

In another report, Elijah Canlas emphasized that public figures have a responsibility to use their platforms to speak the truth and amplify the voices of those who are often unheard. The actor also expressed concern over the persistent stigma faced by members of the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly in the Philippines. Rather than responding with hostility, Elijah encouraged education and personal growth as better ways to address prejudice and discrimination.

Meanwhile, Christian Bables spoke about the long-standing speculation surrounding his sexuality, saying that people will continue believing what they choose regardless of any explanation he gives. The actor stressed that a person's sèxual orientation should never be subjected to public judgment or debate. He also reiterated his support for the LGBTQIA+ community, while sharing that he had previously identified as heterosexual.

Source: KAMI.com.gh