Lio Tipton’s Sexuality: Coming Out Story and Relationship with Partner Explored

Actor and fashion model Lio Tipton, known for placing third on Cycle 11 of America's Next Top Model, came out of the closet in June 2021.

They took to Instagram to share a drawing that implied they belonged to the LGBTQ+ community. In addition, they also wrote a heartwarming caption.

Lio Tipton Came Out as Queer and Non-Binary

"Hi. My name is Lio. My pronouns are they/them," Tipton, formerly Analeigh Tipton, wrote in their post's caption, shedding light on his sexuality. He announced himself as "queer."

The Crazy, Stupid, Love star added, "I am proud to announce I am queer and I identify as non binary. I hope to give as much love and support back to those who continue to show love and support for the Pride community at large."

The big announcement came over a decade after Tipton first rose to prominence with America's Next Top Model in 2008.

Since then, they have established themselves as a recognized model, actress, and reality TV star.

The announcement quickly received an outpouring of love from fans in the comments section.

Their fellow cycle 11 model Isis King — the first transgender competitor to compete in the Tyra Banks-hosted reality show's history — encouraged her friend by writing "LOVE YOU!!!!"

During their time together on the show, Tipton was also a vocal supporter of King, applauding her for embracing her identity despite some contestants' opposition to her placement on the series.

A fan commented, "AHH i remember watching you and LOVING YOU on antm and i’m just now catching up with your career and i’m so proud of u and happy for u...this is wonderful, you are wonderful ! and inspirational."

Tipton also posted an emotional video to their Instagram story after coming out as queer, thanking fans for their "love and the support."

"Clearly didn't affect me at all," the star joked with tears in their eyes, before adding, "Thank you."

Lio Tipton Is Dating Partner Chaz Salembier

Just over a week after confronting her sexuality, Tipton posted about their relationship with their partner Chaz Salembier, a creative executive at The Walt Disney Studios, on Instagram.

Lio Tipton shares an adorable picture with their boyfriend, Chaz Salembier. (Photo: Instagram)

They posted a picture of the couple together, expressing how grateful the star was to have a loving and supportive partner by their side.

"I keep hearing that coming out is just the beginning that the journey ahead is where things get real," they began.

"Thank goodness for my partner, @chazsalembier with whom I am in a queer relationship with, who accepts who I am entirely and only encourages and constantly validates my journey forward, even when I have hesitated."

Tipton stated that not everyone has the privilege of such acceptance and love, and it is even harder for many to understand how someone can be "trans non binary."

Despite all the odds, Tipton has Salembier as their partner — and vice versa.

At present, the two are going strong in their relationship while keeping their relationship away from the spotlight.

Even so, the star occasionally posts pictures with their partner, expressing the love they have for him.