“Dancing With the Stars” pro Ezra Sosa proudly lives as a gay man today. But growing up in Utah, he admits life wasn’t always so simple.
Training at a dance studio allowed him to explore his identity. But even then, the figures in charge placed restrictions on what kind of creative freedom was and wasn’t permitted.
In a new interview with “DWTS” season 29 champion Kaitlyn Bristowe, Ezra opened up about his coming-out journey. Hear what he had to say.
Ezra Sosa Wasn’t Always Comfortable in His Identity
Ezra Sosa proved to be a powerhouse in the ballroom after finishing in third place during season 34 with Jordan Chiles. Dance has always been an important part of his life, but his childhood wasn’t quite so easy.
“When the one place you feel free… still asks you to fit into a box,” Kaitlyn Bristowe captioned an Instagram preview of her latest podcast episode. “Ezra Sosa gets real about dance, identity, and growing up!”
Kaitlyn opened the interview with a question about Ezra’s experience with dance in his formative years. She inquired if dance felt like escapism, or if he felt more confined due to his strict conservative surroundings.
“I feel like it was a good mix of both because dance quickly became the thing I latched onto because I wasn’t the person to present all of who I am,” Ezra replied. “But dance became this form where I was able to express in ways I literally couldn’t, because I couldn’t speak up for myself. I couldn’t talk to anyone. Like I just felt so shy and so confined.”
The 25-year-old went on to admit the studio where he trained insisted that men only dance in a masculine way.
“So when I would dance a little feminine, they would call me out on it which I don’t think helped the case,” Ezra continued. “But in hindsight, especially in what I do, it’s important that I dance masculine too because as a pro on the show, I’m mostly dancing with a female partner so it’s important to embody a masculine figure, especially on the ballroom floor.”
Close Friendships Helped the Utah Dancer Along the Way
Although the pair didn’t win, JoJo Siwa and Jenna Johnson broke barriers on “Dancing With the Stars” back in season 30 when they became the first same-sex pairing to compete.
While speaking to Kaitlyn Bristowe, Ezra expressed gratitude for JoJo’s friendship and support.
“I’ll never forget that act of kindness and service that she did for me in that time because if it wasn’t for that, I don’t think I would have been able to come out publicly,” the 25-year-old shared.
Ezra went on to say he certainly wouldn’t mind having a male celebrity partner for next season. When prompted for a name, he said any of the “Heated Rivalry” stars would work perfectly.
Fans can expect to see “Dancing With the Stars” on ABC this fall.
