Mainstream media
Photos of Lambert kissing another man surfaced during the "American Idol" competition. Highlighted as controversial, they were displayed by conservative commentators on "The O'Reilly Factor", who called them "embarrassing", but did not agree that the images would impact the competition. Lambert confirmed that the photos were of him, stating he had nothing to hide and had always been open about his life. Mainstream media speculated on his sexuality and the readiness of "American Idol" voters for an openly gay winner. He confirmed that he was gay in a "Rolling Stone" cover interview shortly thereafter.