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| Sophia Bush - John Salangsang/Shutterstock |
Her portrayal of the confident and complex character earned her a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. Following her success on One Tree Hill, Bush took on the role of Detective Erin Lindsay in Chicago P.D., further solidifying her place in the entertainment industry.
Throughout her career, Bush has been open about her personal life, often addressing her relationships and the challenges she has faced. She was previously married to her One Tree Hill co-star Chad Michael Murray, a relationship that ended in divorce after just five months in 2005.
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| Sophia Bush in One Tree Hill (2003) |
Bush has since been in several high-profile relationships, including with One Tree Hill co-stars James Lafferty and Austin Nichols, as well as actor Jesse Lee Soffer, her co-star on Chicago P.D..
In 2022, she married entrepreneur Grant Hughes, but the marriage ended in divorce in August 2023 after just over a year.
Bush’s coming out overlaps with her relationship with former U.S. soccer player Ashlyn Harris, which began after both went through their respective divorces.
In her essay, Bush addressed the rumors and backlash surrounding their relationship, particularly the accusations that their relationship overlapped with Harris’s previous marriage to fellow soccer star Ali Krieger. Bush said that these rumors were baseless and highlighted the importance of focusing on her truth and integrity rather than the negativity from online gossip.
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| At The Washington Hilton, Sophia Bush and Ashlyn Harris posed for pictures, appearing incredibly in love.(Getty Images) |
In her Glamour essay, Bush shared that identifying as queer has brought her immense relief and happiness. She described her sexuality as existing on a spectrum and noted that the term "queer" feels right for her.
“I think I’ve always known that my sexuality exists on a spectrum,” she wrote.
“Right now I think the word that best defines it is queer. I can’t say it without smiling, actually. And that feels pretty great”.
Bush also expressed gratitude for the love and support she has received from the queer community, which has made her feel at home.
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| Instagram @sophiabush |
Her Instagram post captioned
"Sophia Bush is listening to her intuition. And she can finally breathe. One year after a picture-perfect wedding turned public divorce, the #OneTreeHill star found herself in a new relationship. With a woman. The Internet was looking for a scandal but those close to her say she’s never been more herself. For Glamour’s April cover, Bush writes about it all: finding new love in an unexpected support system, not having regrets, her fertility journey, and more. Read her story at the link in bio."
Bush’s essay also touched on the broader context of LGBTQ+ rights and the ongoing challenges faced by the community. She acknowledged that coming out publicly is a powerful statement, especially at a time when legislative efforts are being made to restrict these rights.
She hopes her public declaration will offer solidarity and support to others in the community and inspire them to live their truth. Reflecting on her journey, Bush noted the deep impact of finally embracing her identity.
“I feel like I was wearing a weighted vest for who knows how long,”
she wrote. “I hadn’t realized how heavy it was until I finally just put it down. This might sound crazy—but I think other people in trauma recovery will get it—I am taking deep breaths again. I can feel my legs and feet. I can feel my feet in my shoes right now. It makes me want to cry and laugh at the same time”.
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| Ashlyn Harris and Sophia Bush - Ashlyn Harris/Instagram |
Bush's announcement has been met with widespread support from fans and celebrities alike. Her bravery in sharing her truth serves as a reminder of the importance of authenticity and the power of living one’s truth.
As she continues to navigate her personal and professional life, Bush remains a role model for many, inspiring others to embrace their identities with courage and pride.
Sophia Bush's journey to self-acceptance and her public declaration of her queer identity marks a significant moment in her life. It not only highlights her personal growth but also contributes to the ongoing conversation about LGBTQIA+ rights and representation in the media. Her story is a testament to the importance of living authentically and the deep impact it can have on one’s life and the lives of others.
Bush's decision to come out publicly at the age of 41 is especially significant. It challenges the heteronormative narrative that often assumes individuals are automatically heterosexual unless they explicitly say otherwise. Her journey highlights the ongoing process of self-discovery that many LGBTQ+ people experience.
Moreover, Bush's visibility as a successful actress adds another layer of importance to her coming out. It sends a powerful message to LGBTQ+ youth, especially those struggling with their identity.
Seeing an accomplished and respected figure like Bush embrace her queer identity can be incredibly empowering for those navigating their own journeys.
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| Instagram/Sophia Bush |
Bush's essay wasn't just about labels, it was also about finding love and acceptance. She confirmed her relationship with retired U.S. Women's National Soccer player Ashlyn Harris, describing a connection built on mutual understanding and support. This public confirmation of their romance further normalizes same-sex relationships in the public eye.
Bush's experience also highlights the importance of allyship. Throughout her career, she has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. Now, by coming out, she displays the true essence of support– walking the walk and using her platform to promote visibility and acceptance.
Sophia Bush's story is one of courage, self-discovery, and ultimately, finding happiness. It reminds us that the journey to self-acceptance is ongoing for many, and the importance of creating safe spaces for individuals to explore their identities without fear or judgment.
Her embrace of the word "queer" and her public relationship are not just personal statements, but powerful acts of inclusion that pave the way for a more diverse and accepting world.
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