BEARTOOTH's Caleb Shomo Unleashes Truth: A Journey from Darkness to Pride
In a gripping interview on the Lipps Service With Scott Lipps podcast, BEARTOOTH’s vocalist Caleb Shomo bravely detailed his tumultuous journey towards self-acceptance, culminating in his courageous revelation as a proudly gay man in May 2026. For a decade, Shomo buried his true self beneath the weight of alcohol, wrestling with fears and shame that threatened to stifle his identity. When confronted with the question of whether it was easier to come out to his family or the metal community, he candidly replied, 'Oh, all of it was fucking terrifying.'
Shomo recalled the gut-wrenching moment when he decided to share his truth with friends and bandmates, all while grappling with the intense uncertainty of his parents' potential reactions. 'I just don't know if... I have no clue,' he admitted, reflecting on the anxiety of revealing his identity to those he loved dearly. Yet, the strength of his familial bonds shone through as he expressed gratitude for his parents’ growth in understanding and acceptance, crediting them for their willingness to embrace the reality of his journey.
In a heartfelt recounting, Caleb described the emotional FaceTime call with his parents, where he broke down, revealing his authentic self. 'I was just bawling my eyes out,' he said, yet their response was nothing short of loving and supportive. Such pivotal conversations have since fostered a deeper connection, one that is now rich with honesty and understanding. 'I'm so proud of them for how much they've grown,' he shared, illuminating the transformative power of love.
However, the response from the metal scene has been a mixed bag. Reflecting on the backlash he faced from certain corners of the community post his Instagram announcement, he noted, 'Truth be told, nobody close to me has met me with opposition.' It’s a stark reminder that while many have embraced his truth, a subsect of the metal world remains unwelcoming—a reality that echoes through the veins of the genre.
Caleb's wife, Fleur Shomo, stood by him fiercely, expressing her unwavering support on social media and urging fans to rally behind her husband. 'I will always want to love, protect and support Caleb,' she declared, emphasizing that their marriage, filled with joy and challenges, was a testament to the deep love they shared. As they navigate this new chapter, Fleur reflected on the complexities of their bond, evoking a sense of bittersweet nostalgia for the life they built together.
With the release of BEARTOOTH's latest masterpiece, 'Pure Ecstasy,' on August 28 via Fearless Records, the band is set to embark on their expansive 'Pure Ecstasy World Tour,' kicking off September 17 in Europe. The North American leg promises to be a spectacle of catharsis and celebration, featuring special guests DON BROCO, MAGNOLIA PARK, and WINDWAKER, as they charge through cities like Boston, New York, and Los Angeles. Prepare for an unforgettable ride where metal and truth collide, forging an unbreakable bond between artist and audience.