Matt Terry: X Factor, Coming Out & Finally Feeling Free

In this episode of Queer Talker, host Ben Cicchetti sits down with X Factor winner and pop artist Matt Terry for his most open and honest conversation yet.Matt reflects on growing up feeling like he had to hide who he was, the pressure of trying to present as “straight enough,” and what it was really like being thrust into the spotlight on one of the biggest TV shows in the world at just 23 years old.He opens up about the rumours surrounding his sexuality during X Factor, feeling unprotected by the industry, and the emotional toll of trying to play a version of himself that never truly fit.Matt also shares the deeply personal story behind His Car, why Heartstopper meant so much to him, and how his new music including Skittles and Party In My Room represents freedom, joy, and finally feeling comfortable in his own skin.This episode is funny, emotional, nostalgic, and incredibly honest. A conversation about fame, identity, pressure, healing, and what happens when you stop performing for everyone else and finally become yourself.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Matt Terry02:18 Musical Inspirations and Collaborations03:58 Queer Icons and Representation04:40 X Factor Journey and Performances05:49 The Meaning Behind 'Party in My Room'06:18 Finding Identity and Self-Discovery08:18 Musical Journey and Early Influences10:26 Awareness of LGBTQ Figures12:29 Experience on X Factor17:10 Navigating Fame and Personal Struggles20:06 Confidence on Stage23:30 Performing 'Secret Love Song' and Its Impact25:49 Winning X Factor and Its Aftermath26:20 The Highs and Lows of Fame30:04 Navigating the X Factor Experience33:58 Finding My Voice: The Journey to Authenticity38:17 His Car: A Personal Revelation45:20 Being a Voice for the LGBTQIA+ Community47:03 Advice to My Younger SelfConnect with Ben Cicchetti:Website - https://www.queertalker.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bencicchetti/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BenCicchettiTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bencicchetti