People to embrace their sexuality, says R.E.M frontman

R.E.M frontman Michael Stipe has encouraged people to be honest about their sexuality.

“I think just being honest to oneself is the best way to move through life,” he said on the red carpet at the Food Bank For New York City’s fifth annual Can-Do awards gala.

“Life is very short and if you can embrace who you are and love who you are, that makes life a little bit easier, I think.”

The 48-year-old singer admitted being gay in 2001 – he previously said he was attracted to, and had relationships with, both men and women.

He lamented that the media attention has caused him grief, saying: “It’s actually kind of hurtful.

“Please do a little bit of research beyond the internet when discussing these things.”