Country Stars Show Support for Ty Herndon and Billy Gilman

Ty Herndon came out as gay, and Billy Gilman followed suit, on Nov. 20. As both men publicly stood up for who they are, fellow country artists rallied behind them, encouraging both singers for their bravery and honesty.

Fellow gay artist Chely Wright, who came out in 2010, showed proud support of Gilman on her Facebook page.

"Way to go, Billy. This is a great day for country music," she writes. "Your powerful declaration will change the lives of so many people. I'm happy for you and so proud."

In the coming out video posted on his Facebook page, Gilman pointedly called on the country music industry to support LGBTQ artists, admitting that he was "scared to death" but thanking singers like Keith Urban, Vince Gill and LeAnn Rimes for supporting him. Rimes emotionally applauded both men, tweeting "THIS is amazing @TyHerndoncom I luv you both Billy I'm proud of you #tears."

Herndon made his official announcement on 'Entertainment Tonight,' stating, "Today, I get to tell the world that I am an out, proud and happy gay man." While he has known his sexual orientation for years, the 'Living in a Moment' singer has kept it under the radar until now because he wanted to protect his country music career.

Lucy Hale and Meghan Linsey, among others, pumped their collective fists for the guys.

"Proud proud proud," reads Hale's tweet.

Both men, after being inundated with love from fans, artists and followers, responded simply and humbly.

Country Stars Who Have Come Out as Gay