BEARTOOTH vocalist Caleb Shomo has publicly come out as gay following recent online speculation surrounding his personal life.

This announcement comes after the singer temporarily stepped away from social media amid backlash and homophobic comments related to his appearance in the music video for BEARTOOTH's recent single "Free." Shomo made the announcement through a statement shared on social media earlier today, Saturday, May 23.

In it, he wrote: "There's been a lot of speculation surrounding my personal life as of late and I feel compelled to set the record straight before it affects those I love any further." He also addressed his decision to publicly reveal his sexual orientation through music.

"When it comes to my art / BEARTOOTH, I have always strived to chase who I am in the deepest part of my soul from album to album," Shomo wrote.

"As you could gather if you've followed the band at all in the earlier years, there are four very self-deprecating albums about exploring my religious upbringing, depression, self-hatred, self-loathing, and hopelessness." Shomo also addressed his decision not to publicly acknowledge his sexual orientation until now.

"I spent a decade burying feelings with alcohol," he wrote, "and honestly when I decided to put it down and focus on exploring why I felt this way for so long, it's been a direct path to me reconciling with my sexuality in hopes that it will eventually lead to me experiencing self-love." The statement concluded by thanking fans for their love and support.

Shomo encouraged others who may be struggling with their own identities to "give yourself grace.

Give yourself patience.

Be honest with yourself." BEARTOOTH's sixth album, "Pure Ecstasy," is set to release on August 28 through Fearless Records.

BEARTOOTH has built a reputation over six studio albums as a unique and dynamic band that refuses to suffer in silence.

Their music has been praised for its intensity, honesty, and connection.

The band has topped the Rock and Alternative charts and landed on several Best Rock/Metal Albums of the Year lists.