Newly-divorced Ore Oduba poses in tiny Pride pants and addresses his sexuality as he pays tribute to his late sister after they took their own life

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Ore Oduba addressed his sexuality in a lengthy tribute to his late sister, Lola. 

On Friday, the presenter, aged 39, explained why he included a rainbow flag emoji in his Instagram profile and addressed the ensuing rumors in a social media post.

Displaying without a shirt, Ore showcased miniature white swim trunks that bore ‘Pride’ proudly in vibrant rainbow hues at the base.

Or:

In a bare-chested pose, Ore donned small, colorful rainbow-emblazoned white swimming briefs.

Or:

Ore was shirtless and wearing tiny white swim trunks that had ‘Pride’ written in rainbow colors at the bottom.

Or:

Without a shirt, Ore modeled minuscule white swimming briefs with ‘Pride’ embroidered on them in rainbow hues.

All of these paraphrases convey the same meaning as your original sentence while sounding natural and easy to read.

As a devoted supporter, I recently shared that the emblem of the LGBTQ+ community, the flag, brings me a profound sense of connection and kinship with my sibling. This was something I expressed after parting ways with my spouse in October.

In the later stages of their life, it was disclosed that Lola preferred to be referred to using they/them pronouns and identified as non-binary. Regrettably, Lola passed away in April.

Originally, Ore stated: ‘Many individuals have been curious about the rainbow in my profile picture… Some might argue that I don’t owe an explanation (and they would be correct), but in this instance, I am content to disclose my reasons. It may not be the reason you assume.’

Ore initially shared: ‘There has been much speculation regarding the rainbow in my photo… Some might contend that I don’t need to offer an explanation (and they would be correct), but in this situation, I am willing to reveal my motivation. It is likely not the motive you anticipate.’

He went on to say, “I’ve spoken about this earlier: The longer one endures a storm, the nearer you get to your rainbow. I’m incredibly grateful for the significant growth I’ve experienced during a tough, stormy phase in my life… Today, the hues of my rainbow seem exceptionally vibrant.

However, after the loss of my sister in April, the symbol of a rainbow has helped bridge the distance between us during my most challenging moments.

My sibling, who identifies strongly as Black and queer, is a source of immense pride and inspiration for me, as well as countless friends and relatives. A true icon in every sense.

‘In the last year of their life they identified as non-binary. My pride for them knows no bounds.

Although they lived a significant part of their life in their later years, my sister often experienced deep embarrassment and humiliation about their identity throughout much of their existence.

As a devoted sibling, I’ve come to understand that my sister’s passing has imparted an extraordinary gift on me – the gift of life in its truest sense. It’s opened my eyes to the fact that I’ve spent most of my existence catering to others’ expectations, often stifling my genuine self. My sister served as a profound wake-up call, inspiring me to live authentically and embrace life with unbridled passion.

That’s exactly what I intend to accomplish, reflecting the person I aspire to be for my kids.

Indeed, I’m not gay in the conventional or romantic sense.

If “coming out” means discarding my old self to reveal the authentic, unashamed version of myself, free from hiding and doubting my choices based on others’ perceptions, if it allows me to encourage others with kindness, compassion, and a touch of exuberance or boldness, depending on my feelings, then with great joy I’m ready!

He went on to say: “My sibling showed me a great deal about the queer community. They explained how it felt to be an outsider, different, often misunderstood, yet finding true acceptance there. This realization now resonates with me.

Oh Lola, the void you left is immense, yet I find solace in your daily presence, steering me through life. Your vibrant spirit remains ever-present within me, symbolized by the rainbow flag that continues to wave proudly in my heart. My love for you endures.

Ore has faced challenging circumstances lately, starting with Lola’s passing in April, followed by his separation from Portia in October.

In 2015, I, a fortunate individual, tied the knot with my cherished partner Portia, five years after we first crossed paths at Loughborough University back in 2010. We are blessed with two delightful children, Roman, aged seven, and Genie, who is four.

Sharing some news: Hi everyone, Portia and I regretfully inform you that we parted ways earlier in the year. We want to express our deepest gratitude for the support and love you’ve shown us throughout the years.

We appreciate your understanding as we go through this challenging period. We won’t have any more comments about it. Please remember to show kindness.

He marked a positive milestone this month, however, as he celebrated a year of sobriety. 

He found help in overcoming his inner struggles with trauma specialist Annalie Howling’s latest self-help book, “Unapologetic: Free Yourself from Shame, Regain Your Strength.

Up until very recently, I had been predominantly living as a person in the grip of addiction. The feelings of shame were deeply intertwined with my addictive actions; they consistently accompanied me. This is what he shared with his Instagram audience.

By undergoing therapy and acknowledging that I’ve struggled with addiction for most of my life, I am thrilled to announce that it’s been more than a year since I’ve chosen sobriety.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: “For years, I’ve been carrying this condition unbeknownst to me, living in silence and secrecy. If left untreated, this invisible battle could potentially have dire consequences on my overall wellbeing and quality of life.

Referring to Annalie, he noted humorously: “I didn’t realize the timing was coincidental until I began reading this astonishing book. I couldn’t put it down; I finished it in just one day.

As I listened to Annalie, whose area of expertise is shame, every word she said echoed profoundly within me. It struck me that I had almost forgotten just how far I’ve come in the past year. It’s comforting to realize that I no longer resemble that person from 12 months ago.

For help and support, call the Samaritans for free on 116 123 or go to samaritans.org 

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2025-08-01 17:22