Singer Jessie J has revisited and clarified controversial remarks she made about her sexuality back in 2014, stating she misworded her feelings at the time and expressing regret for any hurt caused.
Addressing Past Comments on Sexuality
In a candid new interview with The Guardian, the artist, whose real name is Jessica Cornish, directly addressed the criticism she received from the LGBT+ community over a decade ago. Following a serious relationship with a woman that ended, Cornish had publicly referred to it as "a phase."
The "Price Tag" singer, now 37, explained that her previous wording did not accurately reflect her true feelings. "It wasn't me saying I'm not bisexual," she stated. "I think I'm always going to be attracted to women." She further elaborated that while she is open about her attractions, she does not desire a public label, saying, "I'm so honest and open about it, but I don't want a label on it, like 'Jessie J the bisexual singer'."
When asked if she remains in contact with her former partner, she simply replied, "no, not any more." Reflecting on their past relationship, which involved living together for around three years, Cornish expressed remorse. "I'm sure it hurt her because our relationship was amazing and we were really serious," she said.
Opening Up About Personal Struggles
The wide-ranging interview also saw Jessie J speak with striking honesty about several profound personal challenges she has faced in recent years.
She confirmed that her powerful new song, "I'll Never Know Why," was written about the death of her bodyguard and close friend, Dave Last, who died by suicide in 2018. "I miss him so much, man," she shared. "He was my guy for seven years. He was like my big brother." She revealed her sadness that he felt a loneliness so profound that he didn't reach out before his death.
Cornish expressed her hope that the song could offer solace to others, stating, "I hope it's a song that can help people who are left behind. And I also hope it helps people who are thinking of doing it to see a different perspective of what they would leave behind and how much they're loved and wanted."
Additionally, the singer discussed her recent health battles, including receiving treatment for breast cancer earlier this year and experiencing a miscarriage. She credited her parents for their unwavering support, saying they taught her not to define herself by her worst days.
She noted that these difficult experiences have prompted positive life changes. "[My health struggles] have made me live life more, eat better, work out more," she explained. "Made me live in the moment."
Jessie J's new album, "Don't Tease Me With a Good Time," is out now.
