Sufjan Stevens: A Rare Insight into His Private Life
Sufjan Stevens, the Grammy- and Oscar-nominated musician, released his 10th studio album, “Javelin,” last Friday. In an emotional Instagram post, Stevens dedicated the album to his late partner, Evans Richardson IV.
Describing Richardson as an extraordinary person full of love, joy, and integrity, Stevens expressed his gratitude for their relationship. He emphasized the importance of nurturing and cherishing love, especially during tough times.
Richardson, the former chief of staff at New York’s Studio Museum in Harlem, was a cherished individual who left a profound impact on Stevens’ life.
This public acknowledgment of their relationship has led to speculations about Stevens’ sexuality, with publications like Out magazine and The Independent referring to it as his long-awaited “coming out.”
Jason Kempin via Getty Images
Stevens’ sexuality has been a subject of fan speculation for some time. The inclusion of his songs in the soundtrack of “Call Me by Your Name,” as well as his release of LGBTQ Pride-themed songs, supported these speculations.
Despite personal challenges, including a recent diagnosis of Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare neurological condition, Stevens remains committed to his art. Early reviews of “Javelin” have been overwhelmingly positive, praising his meticulous craftsmanship and the culmination of his unpredictable career.