Clay Aiken Talks Fatherhood and Coming Out

It’s been quite a crazy year for former American Idol standout Clay Aiken, who won over the hearts of America with his soulful singing and "aw, shucks" demeanor. He finally acknowledged publicly in September that he is gay after just one month earlier having his first child, Parker, whom he will raise with music producer Jaymes Foster, his best friend.

Said Aiken of his eventful year, "At the end of the day, Parker is the most important thing of the year, and of my life, without question. Having a son and that type of responsibility is obviously going to be something that I remember forever." Aiken also discussed the support he has found from fans and non-fans alike. "We’ve been very impressed and my heart has been thoroughly warmed to find people very supportive."

Also worth noting is that many previously "in the closet" gay men have acknowledged that Clay Aiken’s September admission has them more confident in themselves, and more willing to be themselves and come out as well. Of his influence, Aiken noted, "I’ve very humbled by that. I really don’t know what to say about that. I think that hopefully less than inspiring people I will have an opportunity to open people’s eyes to different viewpoints and different possibilities in their life." While Aiken is planning on spending quite a bit of time at home with Parker and Jaymes, he also has plans to get back to singing soon, as soon as he’s settled into his new domestic life.