Straight Man Swears He is Straight. His Queer Friends Aren't so Sure

Local man Michael Johnson, 27, has been adamant for years that he is straight, but his queer friends aren't so sure. Despite his claims, his friends say that Johnson has shown a number of signs that suggest he may actually be gay. One of the most telling signs is Johnson's love for Broadway musicals, specifically the works of legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim. According to sources close to Johnson, he is a big fan of Sondheim's Sunday in the Park with George and Into the Woods, and even has a poster of the latter hanging in his apartment.

But perhaps the biggest clue to Johnson's possible sexual orientation is his admiration for actress Bernadette Peters, who has starred in several Sondheim productions. "Michael is always talking about how amazing Bernadette Peters is," said Sarah Hernandez, one of Johnson's close friends. "He's seen her in concert several times and can recite all the lyrics to her songs. It's just not something you'd expect from a straight guy."

Another friend, Alex Rodriguez, noted that Johnson seems to have a particular affinity for queer culture, often quoting lines from RuPaul's Drag Race and referencing other gay icons. "He knows more about Lady Gaga than any straight guy I know," Rodriguez said. But despite these signs, Johnson maintains that he is straight and has even been in a long-term relationship with his girlfriend for the past three years. However, his friends say that they have their doubts. "We love Michael no matter what, but we also want him to feel comfortable enough to be honest with himself and us," said Hernandez. "We just want him to know that we support him and accept him, no matter what his sexual orientation is."

The situation has caused some tension among Johnson's friend group, with some feeling like they can't be completely honest with him about their suspicions. "It's tough because we don't want to make him uncomfortable, but at the same time, we don't want him to feel like he has to hide who he really is," said Rodriguez. For his part, Johnson says he is tired of the speculation and just wants to be accepted for who he is, regardless of his sexual orientation. "I know who I am, and I shouldn't have to prove anything to anyone," he said. "I'm just trying to live my life and be happy."

Only time will tell whether Johnson will eventually come out as gay, or continue to insist that he is straight. But one thing is for sure – his friends will be there to support him no matter what.