He flips. He hits notes that should probably be illegal. He wears sheer shirts and lace like he’s channeling a 1970s rock god. Naturally, everyone wants to know: is Benson Boone straight, or are we looking at the next great queer icon of pop?
The internet loves a mystery. Especially when that mystery involves a guy with a mustache who can do a backflip while singing a high C. Honestly, if you’ve spent five minutes on TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen the debates. People are analyzing his stage presence like it's a crime scene. They’re looking at the sparkles, the tight pants, and the vulnerable lyrics and trying to fit him into a box.
But here’s the thing. Reality is usually a bit more grounded than the "shipping" threads on Reddit.
The Maggie Thurmon Era and Those Breakup Rumors
For a long time, the answer to the "is Benson Boone straight" question seemed pretty straightforward. He was in a very public, very photogenic relationship. Benson started dating actress and TikToker Maggie Thurmon in early 2024. They weren't just "spotted" together; they were doing the whole Hollywood power couple routine. They hit the Elton John AIDS Foundation party. They walked the red carpet at the VMAs. They even did the classic "kiss for the cameras" bit that makes every tabloid editor happy.
Benson was pretty open about his feelings, too. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, he basically gushed that he loved her "whole personality" and called her the sweetest person ever.
It felt solid.
Then came September 2025.
The social media "kiss of death" happened—the dreaded unfollow. TMZ reported they were done. Maggie posted a "girls night" video, and Benson told a Nashville crowd that "sometimes people leave your life" and it’s always hard. It wasn't just a rumor; it was a full-blown celebrity breakup. This split, naturally, reignited the curiosity. When a guy who looks like a young Freddie Mercury enters his "single era," the speculation machine starts running at 100%.
Why Everyone Keeps Asking "Is Benson Boone Straight?"
It’s the vibe. Let's be real.
Benson’s aesthetic isn't exactly "traditional guy from Monroe, Washington." He leans heavily into an androgynous, gender-fluid style. We're talking silk shirts, crop tops, and jewelry. It’s a look that screams Harry Styles or Freddie Mercury.
- The Freddie Comparison: People bring up Freddie Mercury constantly. It’s the mustache, the energy, and the sheer vocal power. Since Freddie was a queer icon, fans often project that same identity onto Benson.
- The Lyrics: Songs like "Beautiful Things" and "Be Someone" deal with intense vulnerability. While he’s confirmed "Beautiful Things" was written about the fear of losing a relationship (specifically his one with Maggie), the raw emotion often resonates deeply with the LGBTQ+ community.
- The LDS Background: Benson grew up in the Mormon church. He’s been open about leaving the religion but keeping some of the values, like not drinking or doing drugs. In the world of celebrity gossip, people often wonder if there’s a "repressed identity" narrative happening because of that religious upbringing.
But so far? There hasn't been a "coming out" moment. He hasn't used any specific labels for himself other than being an ally.
The Power of Being Unlabeled
Benson seems to belong to that new generation of artists who just... don't care about the labels you want to give them.
He supports the community. He’s been seen waving rainbow flags at shows. His mom and sister are reportedly huge allies. But he’s never sat down for a "I’m gay" or "I’m bi" interview. In 2026, that shouldn't be shocking, but in the world of SEO and celebrity voyeurism, it drives people crazy.
Is it possible he's queer? Sure. Is it possible he’s just a straight guy who likes glitter and sensitive songwriting? Also yes.
What the Evidence Actually Says
If we’re sticking to the facts—the "just the data, ma'am" approach—here is what we actually know.
He has only ever been publicly linked to women. Before Maggie Thurmon, there were rumors about a girl named Kylee Anderson back in Utah. Every time he talks about a "muse" or a specific inspiration for a love song, he’s used female pronouns or referred to a girlfriend.
Does a girlfriend prove someone is 100% straight? No. Just ask the history of rock and roll. But it is the only concrete evidence we have regarding his romantic life. Speculating beyond that is just fan fiction.
Some fans on Reddit have pointed to specific TikToks where he looks "cuddly" with male friends, but that’s a reach. Gen Z is generally more comfortable with platonic male affection than previous generations. A hug isn't a confession.
Navigating the "Straight-Passing" Aesthetic
There’s a term for what Benson does: "Queerbaiting." Or at least, that’s what the critics call it.
They argue that straight artists use queer aesthetics—the nail polish, the pearls, the flamboyant stage moves—to appeal to a certain demographic without actually living the reality of being queer. It’s a heavy accusation. But for Benson, it feels less like a marketing ploy and more like a genuine love for the 70s rock aesthetic.
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He’s a performer. He’s theatrical. He does backflips!
If you look at the history of music, flamboyant straight men are everywhere. Think Steven Tyler. Think Mick Jagger. They pushed the boundaries of masculinity without necessarily being gay. Benson Boone is just the 2026 version of that.
How to Respect the Boundary
At the end of the day, Benson Boone hasn't given us a definitive "yes" or "no" because he probably doesn't think he owes us one.
He’s 23. He’s navigating fame, massive breakups, and a grueling tour schedule. If he’s straight, he’s a straight guy who’s comfortable enough in his skin to reject boring masculine norms. If he’s something else, he’ll tell us when he’s ready. Or maybe he won't.
What You Can Do Next
Instead of spiraling down a TikTok rabbit hole of "clues," focus on what’s actually confirmed.
Check out his latest album, American Heart. If you really want to understand his headspace, listen to the lyrics of the tracks he wrote after the Maggie Thurmon split. That’s where the real truth usually hides—not in the color of his shirt or the way he moves his hips on stage.
Follow his official social media accounts for actual updates rather than fan-made "analysis" videos. If he ever decides to share more about his identity, it’ll be there, in his own words, and not through a TMZ leak. Stick to the music; it's why we're all here anyway.