Story perspectives

Melissa Etheridge Reflects on Son's Journey and Legacy

4/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Melissa Etheridge, the lesbian singer-songwriter, shared a memory of her late son Beckett on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Beckett told Etheridge at age 11, 'Mom, I’m sorry, but I think I’m straight,' she recalled.
Her 1993 coming out provides context for Rise, which includes 'Call You' written to process Beckett’s 2020 death from opioid addiction.
She emphasizes allowing children to express themselves freely, reflecting on societal pressures about gender norms.

1 of 1

Story summary

Melissa Etheridge, the lesbian singer-songwriter, shared a memory of her late son Beckett on The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Beckett told Etheridge at age 11, 'Mom, I’m sorry, but I think I’m straight,' she recalled.
Her 1993 coming out provides context for Rise, which includes 'Call You' written to process Beckett’s 2020 death from opioid addiction.
She emphasizes allowing children to express themselves freely, reflecting on societal pressures about gender norms.