Shawn Mendes has publicly apologised to Sam Smith for calling them the wrong pronoun.
The Canadian singer was introducing Sam at the 2020 iHeartRadio Jingle Ball show this week when he referred to Sam as “he” instead of “they”.
Taking to his Instagram Story, the 22-year-old wrote: “Oh @samsmith I’m so sorry for referring to you as a ‘he’ for your jingle ball introduction.”
“It absolutely slipped my mind. Wont happen again.. Sending you so much love ! Also you absolutely are one of the funniest people I’ve ever met.”
Sam accepted Shawn’s apology, and wrote on their Instagram Story: “We’re all learning together. Happy holidays, all my love xx.”
Last September, the British musician announced their decision to change their pronouns to “they/them” on social media.
In an emotional Instagram post, Sam wrote: “I’ve decided I am changing my pronouns to THEY/THEM. After a lifetime of being at war with my gender I’ve decided to embrace myself for who I am, inside and out.”
“I’m so excited and privileged to be surrounded by people that support me in this decision but I’ve been very nervous about announcing this because I care too much about what people think but f**k it!”
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“I understand there will be many mistakes and mis gendering but all I ask is you please please try. I hope you can see me like I see myself now. Thank you.”
“P.s. I am at no stage just yet to eloquently speak at length about what it means to be non binary but I can’t wait for the day that I am,” Sam continued.
“So for now I just want to be VISIBLE and open. If you have questions and are wondering what this all means I’ll try my best to explain but I have also tagged below the human beings who are fighting the good fight everyday.”
Sam went on to tag activists and leaders of the non binary/trans community that have helped him – mentioning @tomglitter @munroebergdorf @transnormativity @alokvmenon @katemoross @glamrou @travisalabanza @twyrent @chellaman @jvn @lavernecox @stonewalluk @glaad @humanrightscampaign and @mermaidsgender.
Finally, the 28-year-old added: “Love you all. I’m scared shitless, but feeling super free right now. Be kind.”
