Some prefer to simply follow an individual's self-definition or identity. However, most definitions include a psychological component (such as the direction of an individual's erotic desire) and/or a behavioural component (which focuses on the sex of the individual's sexual partner/s). Much of the research about sexual orientation has failed to define the term at all, making it difficult to reconcile the results of different studies. A number of different classification schemes have been used to describe sexual orientation since the mid-19th century. The definition of sexual orientation has changed greatly over time and the word 'gay' was not used to describe sexual orientation until the mid 20th century.
Famous persons who are only thought or rumored to be gay, lesbian or bisexual are not included in this list. The number of notables in the list is likely to be several times higher due to fact that many famous people have hidden their sexual orientations. This is a confirmed referenced overview list of notable gay, lesbian or bisexual people, who have either been open about their sexuality or for which reliable sources exist. You can help by adding missing items with reliable sources. This is a dynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness.
