#42: Elton John
Year They Came Out of the Closet: 1988
Elton John is a legendary British singer, songwriter, and pianist whose career spans more than five decades. With countless chart-topping hits and flamboyant stage presence, he became one of the most influential artists in music history long before publicly addressing his sexuality.

Although open privately earlier, Elton John came out publicly later in life, becoming a major advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. His visibility transformed public attitudes, and his activism became as defining to his legacy as his music.
