Nicola Sturgeon reflects on sexuality and LGBTQ+ advocacy in new memoir

In her forthcoming memoir, 'Frankly,' former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon delves into personal reflections on her sexuality, emphasizing that she has "never considered sexuality, my own included, to be binary." The revelation comes amidst broader discussions of her career, personal life, and unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights.

Sturgeon, who served as First Minister from 2014 to 2023, has long been regarded as a strong ally of the LGBTQ+ community. A highlight of her tenure was the legalization of same-sex marriage in Scotland in 2014, a moment she has described as one of the proudest of her career. Furthermore, she championed progressive gender recognition reforms aimed at improving the lives of transgender individuals in Scotland, although these efforts faced opposition from the UK government.

In an extract from 'Frankly', published by The Times Newspaper, Sturgeon addresses a baseless rumor that circulated in 2020 alleging a same-sex affair with the French ambassador to the UK, Catherine Colonna. Sturgeon says she viewed the rumors which she and Ms. Colonna were able to laugh at, as rooted in homophobia. She noted that while the fabrication was upsetting, the insinuation of a lesbian relationship was not offensive to her.

“For many of those peddling it, ‘lesbian’ and ‘gay’ are meant as insults. However, while the fact I was being lied about got under my skin, the nature of the insult itself was water off a duck’s back. Long-term relationships with men have accounted for more than 30 years of my life but I have never considered sexuality, my own included, to be binary. Moreover, sexual relationships should be private matters.” Sturgeon wrote.

In a recent interview with ITV News, when asked about her views on sexuality, Sturgeon stated, "It’s just my view of the world and life and the way people are… If you’re about to ask me if I am making some big revelation: no. Am I putting labels on myself, no.”

While emphasizing that she is not currently seeking a relationship after ending her marriage, Sturgeon remains open to the future, stating she is enjoying her independence.

'Frankly,' set to be released on Thursday, August 14, 2025, promises an intimate look into Sturgeon's life, from her working-class roots to her leadership role in Scottish politics, offering insights into both her personal journey and her political convictions.