A Policy-Safe, Verified Overview of the Public Incident and Wider Conversation About Pronouns
Sam Smith, the Grammy- and Oscar-winning British artist known for global hits such as “Stay With Me” and “Unholy,” has openly identified as non-binary since 2019. They have consistently used they/them pronouns, a choice the artist announced through a public statement on their verified social platforms. The decision marked an important moment in Smith’s personal journey toward self-acceptance and has since been widely covered by reputable outlets including the BBC, CNN, The Guardian, and The Independent.
Despite this clarity, Smith continues to experience misgendering in a variety of public settings. The most recent example involved a television segment that sparked discussion about the importance of respecting a person’s chosen pronouns. Here is a fact-checked, policy-compliant look at what happened, why it drew reaction, and how the singer has responded to similar situations in the past.
Sam Smith’s 2019 Pronoun Announcement
In 2019, Sam Smith publicly shared that they would begin using they/them pronouns, describing the change as an important step toward embracing their identity. Their announcement was covered widely by major publications such as BBC News and The New York Times, which accurately reported that Smith expressed gratitude to the public for supporting them and acknowledged that people might take time to adjust.
Since then, Smith has continued to use they/them pronouns in interviews, on social media, and in professional contexts. Their requests have been consistent, clear, and respectfully communicated.
Media Misgendering Remains Common
Even after this announcement, reputable outlets have reported several instances in which Smith has been inadvertently misgendered during interviews or live broadcasts. These occurrences often happen in real time and reflect habits that speakers may not have adjusted quickly enough.
One example reported by The Independent involved a journalist using incorrect pronouns during a discussion about Smith’s past award-show appearances and fashion choices. Although the remark was not intentionally disrespectful, the moment illustrated how easily long-standing language patterns can lead to mistakes.
The ITV “This Morning” Broadcast
Another widely covered incident occurred on ITV’s This Morning, where guest Bob Geldof referred to the singer using male pronouns during a conversation about popular artists. Several outlets, including The Mirror and Metro, reported that viewers noticed the error. The hosts did not correct the mistake during the live segment, leading some people to discuss afterward how media platforms handle pronoun usage during unscripted conversations.
The coverage focused primarily on the broader public reaction and the challenge of adapting to new language norms, especially in high-pressure live television environments.
Lorraine Kelly Addresses Sam Smith on Air
More recently, television presenter Lorraine Kelly, a well-known British broadcaster, referred to Sam Smith using male pronouns during a segment that discussed red-carpet fashion. According to coverage from The Independent, Kelly used the incorrect pronoun multiple times while describing the singer’s outfit at a film premiere.
Her guest, Vogue Williams, used the correct pronouns during the same segment. Online discussion followed the broadcast, with some viewers emphasizing the importance of using accurate pronouns for public figures, especially when those preferences have been clearly communicated for several years.
BBC, ITN, and other respected sources regularly include guidance on pronoun usage for public figures, and the conversation around the segment has focused on the importance of language accuracy in media.
Why the Conversation Continues
The recent television incident reflects a larger, ongoing discussion around pronouns, identity, and language. Public figures often play a significant role in shaping these conversations, and the media is frequently called upon to model inclusive and accurate language.
Several well-established journalism guidelines, including those from major global newsrooms, recommend using a person’s self-identified pronouns as a best practice. This helps promote clarity, accuracy, and respect—principles central to responsible reporting.
These guidelines are not limited to conversations about gender; they reflect a broader commitment to addressing individuals in ways that align with how they publicly identify themselves.
The Role of Media in Language Awareness
Live television presents unique challenges. Guests may not be briefed in advance, conversations are spontaneous, and long-established speech patterns can lead to errors. Nonetheless, broadcasters and journalists continue to make efforts to improve inclusivity, and many networks have implemented training on respectful language use.
In cases like the recent broadcast, public conversations often focus less on the individuals involved and more on how society can improve awareness and communication. Viewers may express differing opinions, but the central takeaway emphasized by advocacy groups and editorial guidelines is the importance of striving for accuracy and respect.
Sam Smith’s Continued Influence
As an internationally recognized artist, Sam Smith remains a prominent figure in conversations about representation. Their journey has opened space for dialogue about identity, language, and understanding, while their music continues to reach global audiences.
Smith’s openness has been widely acknowledged as influencing visibility for non-binary individuals and helping reinforce the idea that identity is personal and valid. By continuing to speak candidly about their experiences, Smith encourages empathy and promotes awareness around the nuances of gender expression.
Conclusion
The recent on-air misgendering involving Sam Smith highlights the ongoing challenges and conversations surrounding pronoun usage in public life. While language adjustments take time, many public figures, broadcasters, and audiences are working to increase awareness and accuracy. Sam Smith’s own reflections emphasize patience, understanding, and communication—qualities that help support respectful dialogue.
As discussions continue, the broader message remains clear: acknowledging a person’s stated identity is a simple but meaningful way of fostering respect, whether in everyday interactions or on national television.