Former S Club 7 Star Jon Lee Opens Up About Six Years of Celibacy and His Search for Love

Jon Lee, known worldwide as a member of the chart-topping UK pop group S Club 7, has made headlines this week after revealing on the Channel 4 reality series "Celebs Go Dating" that he has not had sex for six years. Lee, now 43, made the candid disclosure during the premiere episode that aired Monday, August 11, 2025, as he joined other celebrities seeking love and companionship on the popular program .

Lee’s announcement came as he introduced himself to the show's relationship experts and fellow cast members, sharing that he has been single and celibate since his last relationship ended. The singer and actor, who came out publicly as gay in 2010, explained that his celibacy was not planned but rather emerged from a period of personal reflection and growth. He emphasized that, for him, intimacy and connection are deeply linked, and he has chosen to wait for a meaningful relationship rather than casual encounters .

During the episode, Lee discussed his hopes for the future, stating he is looking for a partner who is “a bit rough around the edges”—someone authentic, grounded, and able to connect beyond surface attraction. His openness about his preferences and his journey has resonated with many viewers, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, where conversations around dating, intimacy, and self-acceptance are often nuanced and personal .

Lee’s participation in "Celebs Go Dating" marks a significant moment for LGBTQ+ visibility on mainstream television. The show, which pairs celebrities with members of the public for a series of dates, has become known for its diverse cast and candid discussions about relationships, sexuality, and personal growth. Lee’s willingness to discuss celibacy and his search for genuine connection challenges stereotypes about gay men and dating, offering an alternative narrative that centers emotional readiness and authenticity .

LGBTQ+ advocates and commentators have praised Lee’s honesty, noting that his story may help others feel less isolated if they, too, are navigating similar journeys. The conversation around celibacy—especially in a culture that can sometimes conflate LGBTQ+ identity with sexual activity—highlights the diversity of experiences and the importance of self-determination in relationships.

Online, reactions to Lee’s revelation have been largely positive, with many viewers expressing support and gratitude for his vulnerability. Social media platforms have seen discussions about the pressures faced by LGBTQ+ individuals to conform to certain expectations around dating and sex, and how stories like Lee’s can help broaden public understanding of queer life and relationships.

Mental health professionals and LGBTQ+ organizations note that open conversations about celibacy, desire, and waiting for the right partner can empower individuals to make choices that are right for them, free from stigma or shame. Lee’s story underscores the value of diverse narratives within LGBTQ+ media representation and the importance of platforms that allow for honest expression .

Lee rose to fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s as part of S Club 7, a group known for hits like “Reach” and “Don’t Stop Movin’.” Since then, he has enjoyed a successful career in musical theatre and television, and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ visibility since coming out. His appearance on "Celebs Go Dating" is his latest step in a public journey that has included speaking out on issues of representation, coming out, and self-acceptance.

Reflecting on his time in the spotlight, Lee has previously spoken about the challenges of growing up gay in the public eye, and the importance of being authentic both privately and publicly. His current focus on finding a partner who shares his values and is ready for a committed relationship reflects a broader trend within LGBTQ+ communities toward honoring diverse paths to love and fulfillment .

As LGBTQ+ communities continue to fight for equality and representation, stories like Jon Lee’s offer a reminder that there is no single way to be queer, to date, or to find happiness. Every individual’s journey is unique, and increased visibility of diverse experiences helps challenge stereotypes and foster understanding.

Lee’s openness on national television may inspire others to embrace their own paths—whether that means waiting for the right partner, exploring celibacy, or redefining what intimacy means to them. As LGBTQ+ stories continue to receive mainstream attention, the hope is that more people feel seen, understood, and empowered to live authentically.