One Tree Hill alum Sophia Bush has graced the cover of Glamour magazine in a deeply personal essay. She not only confirms her relationship with retired U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team player Ashlyn Harris, but also delves into her recent divorce, fertility struggles, and journey towards self-discovery.
Finding Her Voice: Coming Out as Queer
Bush’s essay marks a significant moment of openness, as she embraces the term “queer” to define her sexuality. “I finally feel like I can breathe,” she writes, acknowledging, “I’ve always known my sexuality exists on a spectrum.” This revelation comes after a period of reflection and personal growth.
From Marriage to Divorce: A Turning Point
In 2022, Bush married entrepreneur Grant Hughes, following a decade-long friendship. However, their union was short-lived, with Bush filing for divorce in August 2023. She addresses speculation surrounding the split, stating, “The ones who said I’d left my ex because I suddenly realized I wanted to be with women… my partners have known what I’m into for as long as I have.”
Facing Fertility Challenges and Prioritizing Health
Bush bravely shares her experience with fertility treatments, undertaken shortly after marriage. She describes a demanding schedule of “endless ultrasounds, hormone shots, and retrievals,” while grappling with emotional dissonance within her relationship. This, coupled with health concerns that emerged during a play performance in London, ultimately led to a critical decision.
“My body was screaming and I had to listen,” Bush writes. “It was hard for me to accept… My time in London was over. So was my marriage. It all came crashing down at once.”
Finding Support and Unexpected Love
Following her return to Los Angeles, Bush found solace in a divorce support group. It was there, unexpectedly, that she connected with Ashlyn Harris. Their bond deepened, blossoming into a romantic relationship. “I didn’t expect to find love in this support system,” she shares, “I didn’t see it until I saw it. And I think it’s very easy not to see something that’s been in front of your face for a long time.”
Coming Out in a Challenging Climate
While acknowledging the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community, Bush expresses a desire to “give the act of coming out the respect and honor it deserves.” She reflects on the supportive environment she’s encountered within the queer community, stating, “as an ally all of my life, that, as I came into myself, I already felt it was my home.”
A Story of Resilience and Self-Acceptance
Sophia Bush’s story is one of courage, vulnerability, and ultimately, self-discovery. Her essay serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the importance of prioritizing both physical and emotional well-being. It also celebrates the power of unexpected connections and the beauty of finding love in unconventional places.
