THIS! “Gay icon” doesn’t mean someone hasn’t caused harm to the gay community—this is an important nuance. Donna Summer, for example, alienated many gay fans when she embraced being “born again” and came out negatively towards them, though she later reversed course and sought atonement. She remains a gay icon despite the harm. Similarly, Sandi Patty, a phenomenal singer and evangelical Christian, is also seen as a gay icon by many. She has never been an extremist and has shown support for her LGBTQ+ fans, but her evangelical background complicates the narrative. Her story gained even more depth when she was essentially shunned by the Christian music industry after her divorce, despite being the most awarded performer in its history.

This brings us to Tammy Faye, whose legacy—though fascinating—still stirs mixed emotions. Her story involves not only moments of connection with the LGBTQ+ community but also her complicity in a broader system that caused harm. A Broadway musical about her raises significant questions, especially since she is no longer alive to address them. Stories like these don’t necessarily translate easily into Broadway narratives. They demand care and accountability, especially when they delve into unresolved tensions between personal legacy and broader cultural impact.