Entertainment3 min(s) read
YouTubers with nearly 10 million subs address 'conspiracy' and reveal they’ve been in relationship for 16 years
After 16 years of fan speculation, YouTube duo Dan Howell and Phil Lester have finally confirmed their romantic relationship, putting an end to what they described as the “apocalyptic constant stress” of being subject to endless online rumors?
The British pair, known for their comedy and gaming videos, world tours, BBC Radio 1 show, and bestselling books, had shared their individual journeys as gay men in 2019. However, they had not previously addressed their relationship directly.
In a new video posted to their channels, Dan said: “We fell into it hard and fast in 2009, and here we are almost 16 years later. We can’t live in fear anymore.”
Keeping their relationship private
Dan opened up about the intense pressure and intrusion they experienced from fans speculating about their relationship. He described the stress as potentially life-threatening, saying: “Honestly, it could have killed me.”
He explained that his hesitation to speak publicly about their relationship stemmed from an extremely homophobic childhood, which kept him “deep in the closet” for years.
“In my mid-20s, I felt we had to hide the relationship because I was still hiding who I was to my friends, family, myself,” Dan said. He called Phil his “safe space” and described him as “a literal ray of light” in his life at the time.
Dan added that their privacy had been repeatedly violated by fans trying to out them online, making him feel trapped and anxious. He recalled moments when he wondered if life would be easier if he didn’t have this constant scrutiny.
Therapy and the decision to go public
Dan shared that a recent therapy session helped him reach a turning point. His therapist told him: “Dan, you love being in the closet,” prompting reflection on how secrecy had shaped his life.
Phil noted that while some followers may have guessed, making the announcement was “a big, scary deal”, akin to another mini coming out. Both acknowledged that going public could expose them to more homophobia, but stressed the importance of authenticity.
Dan added, “Look, sure, this is a scary time in the world. But I think that’s why it’s more important than ever that we’re like, ‘You know what? Hey, here we are, gay. And what?’”
Fans celebrate the announcement
The announcement was met with widespread praise and love from fans. Comments poured in underneath their YouTube video expressing relief, joy, and admiration for the duo’s courage.
One fan wrote: “I’m both very, very happy for you both and feeling a bizarre sense of relief.” Another called the reveal “gay independence day.”
Fans also reflected on the role Dan and Phil have played in their lives, with one noting: “I’ve finished my bachelor’s, master’s, med school, and a PhD by the time they hard-launched their relationship.
Dan and Phil’s revelation marks the end of years of speculation, allowing them to share their authentic selves with fans while continuing their celebrated careers. Their courage to speak openly about their relationship highlights the ongoing importance of visibility and support within the LGBTQ+ community.