Believe it or not, Clay Aiken's closet-busting revelation took some members of the Claynation by surprise.
And, for the most part, the surprise has been deemed a good one.
"We'll 'talk' more later, but, suffice it to say, for the first time in recent memory, I am speechless," the 29-year-old wrote on his site's members-only message board in response to the support received from fans following his coming-out proclamation in People.
"I'm so proud to know and love all of you...My family is so much larger than Parker, Jaymes, mom, Brett, etc.," the new father continued. "It extends to each of you. And I couldn't be more blessed."
Even Simon Cowell got in on the act.
"Wow, that's a shock. It's like being told Santa Claus isn't real—unbelievable," the American Idol judge told Extra, before turning serious.
"Good for him...it's the right thing for him," he said. "I don't think anyone cares. Let's face it. It's 2008."
Also lending their support were the leaders of two prominent gay-rights groups, GLAAD the Family Equality Council.
"We congratulate Clay for making this decision and for setting an example for others and his family," said GLAAD president Neil G. Giuliano.
"As we're seeing, more and more gay people, including celebrities, are living openly and honestly, and this has tremendous impact in terms of creating awareness, understanding and acceptance."
Jennifer Chrisler, executive director of the Family Equality, hailed Aiken's announcement and said it will help eliminate bias.
"Much like Rosie O'Donnell, the announcement that Clay Aiken is gay reinforces a simple reality: The American public can no longer say it does not know a gay or lesbian parent," she said.
"Clay Aiken's desire to raise a child in an open and honest manner will make his life, and his son's, all the better. We hope he and his son find all the happiness they deserve, and the Family Equality Council will work toward the day that Clay and Parker Foster Aiken can enjoy the same rights as other American families."
Image:© 2008, , Gregg DeGuire/WireImage.com
