Colton Underwood Shares His Journey to Attending Pride for the First Time (Exclusive)

Colton Underwood Explains Why He Decided to Attend Pride For the 1st Time

Colton Underwood MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images

Three years after publicly announcing that he is gay, Colton Underwood, the former Bachelor star, attended his very first Pride celebration. In an interview with We magazine, the 32-year-old shared the reasons behind his decision to participate in West Hollywood's Pride celebration last weekend.

"I didn't feel like I was ready yet, even though I knew I had the qualifications," Underwood shared with Us as he discussed his collaboration with Pressed Juicery. It took me some time to dedicate myself to the work, to educate myself, to support and stand up for our community, and to figure out my role in it all."

Underwood admitted that he may have been celebrating with individuals who had previously judged him or had opinions about him when his Netflix show came out. Some may still not fully agree with how he has handled certain situations."

Colton Underwood Explains Why He Decided to Attend Pride For the 1st Time

Colton Underwood Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images

In December 2021, Underwood was featured on the Netflix show Coming Out Colton. This series followed his journey of coming out, which he first shared publicly in an interview on Good Morning America in April 2021.

During Pride, Underwood expressed his belief that we are all part of the same community. He emphasized the importance of standing together and supporting one another, stating that no one should be able to divide us.

Underwood and his husband Jordan Brown are currently expecting their first baby through surrogacy. This exciting news came during a thrilling time for them, marking Underwood's first Pride celebration.

“I’ve been on a rollercoaster now for almost two years going through this process with Jordan,” Underwood shared. “We’re at a place now where we’re just so overwhelmed with joy and excitement. There aren’t really nerves. When you’re tried for two years, you’re kind of ready for it.”

Underwood also gushed about the support system in place for the baby, a boy, who is due in early October. 

Colton Underwood Explains Why He Decided to Attend Pride For the 1st Time

Colton Underwood Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images

"We've received a lot of products, tips, and books from many people in our lives," he shared. "Feeling supported and loved by everyone has been amazing. It's been a really positive experience."

The ex-football player teamed up with Pressed Juicery for the special occasion and greeted fans outside the Pressed store in West Hollywood, just a few steps away from the popular West Hollywood Pride Parade on Sunday, June 2.

Pressed Juicery's exclusive PRIDE Pack includes unique labels on three of their most popular juices - Citrus 2, Strawberry Orange Mango, and Greens 3 - created by three talented LGBTQIA+ artists.

Underwood made the decision to partner with Pressed after careful thought and consideration. He expressed his excitement about working with a company that supports the LGTBQ+ organization year-round. For him, it is essential to collaborate with companies and individuals who are committed to ongoing support, rather than just showing temporary support during Pride month.

The PRIDE pack, available now, helps benefit PFLAG, the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQIA+ people.

Editor's P/S:

Colton Underwood's attendance at Pride is a significant milestone in his journey as an openly gay man. It reflects his evolving sense of belonging and the progress he has made in embracing his true self. His commitment to educating himself, advocating for the community, and finding his role within it demonstrates his dedication to making a positive impact.

Underwood's partnership with Pressed Juicery, a company that supports LGBTQIA+ organizations year-round, highlights the importance of ongoing support beyond Pride month. This collaboration sends a message of inclusivity and demonstrates that businesses can play a meaningful role in promoting equality and fostering a supportive environment. The proceeds from the PRIDE Pack benefiting PFLAG further underscore the commitment to supporting the community and its members.