Grammy Award–winning singer Chrisette Michele is speaking her truth and embracing a powerful new chapter of self-discovery.
In a deeply personal Instagram post shared on Sunday, June 15, the R&B star revealed she has officially been diagnosed with autism, calling it a breakthrough moment that explains much of her life’s struggles — and triumphs.
“I just learned I’m autistic. Official diagnosis. They used the word ‘severely,’” Michele wrote to her fans. “I’ve been quiet on here. But… I’ve been outside. Singing. … but learning to strip the mask. One show at a time.”
The singer, 41, reflected on what the news means for her and how it’s helping her understand herself like never before.
“My life and its challenges finally make sense,” she added. “So so much sense. Autistic. Would you get a load of that… I’ll talk more soon. Just wanted to say hi… from stage side.”
Fans Show Support: “Neurodivergent Babes Unite!”
Michele’s comment section quickly filled with love, encouragement, and emotional responses from fans and fellow neurodivergent individuals.
“There’s so much freedom in knowing,” one supporter wrote. “It’s like unlocking a whole new level of understanding in yourself. Give yourself grace and love as you unmask.”
Many others echoed similar sentiments, applauding Michele for her bravery in going public and for giving a voice to others navigating similar paths.
What Autism Means for Chrisette Michele
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects how people communicate, interact, and process information. The diagnosis can be life-changing — especially for adults who receive it later in life, as in Michele’s case.
Being labeled “severely autistic” may sound intimidating, but for many, it simply means they experience intense sensory or emotional challenges. For Michele, it’s offered clarity.
“Just… coming to grips with a lot and giving myself room to take it all in,” she shared.
She also hinted that more conversations are coming soon, likely in future performances or on her podcast — offering fans an inside look at her journey.
Stripping the Mask — One Show at a Time
Michele’s mention of “stripping the mask” refers to a common practice among autistic individuals, known as masking — where one hides their traits or mimics neurotypical behavior to fit in socially.
The process of unmasking is not just healing — it’s liberating. And for someone as visible and expressive as Chrisette Michele, it’s a bold statement of authenticity.
A Career Defined by Strength and Controversy
Chrisette Michele first rose to fame with her soulful voice and powerful songwriting, earning a Grammy for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for “Be OK” featuring will.i.am in 2009.
But her career faced intense backlash in 2017 when she performed at Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration — a decision she has since addressed multiple times.
“The first thing I thought was that I have an opportunity to get in front of these people who don’t seem to understand who they’re talking to and show them what we look like,” she told Billboard in a 2017 interview.
“I thought it was almost my responsibility to not just say yes but to say yes with purpose,” she added. “So that was my reasoning. And no, I didn’t think twice about it.”
The performance sparked controversy and a career fallout that many felt was undeserved. Michele later revealed she experienced depression and suicidal thoughts in the aftermath.
Healing Through Music and Podcasting
Despite the backlash, Michele has remained true to her craft. Her last album, Out of Control, was released in 2018 and touched on themes of resilience, empowerment, and mental health.
She now hosts an eponymous podcast, where she discusses healing, womanhood, and spirituality — all themes that feel even more relevant in light of her recent diagnosis.
What’s Next for Chrisette Michele?
While Michele hasn’t shared whether a new album is on the way, fans are hopeful that her autism revelation will open the door to even more honest, unfiltered, and empowering work.
“I’ll talk more soon,” she promised her followers. “Just wanted to say hi… from stage side.”
And now that she’s beginning to “unmask,” it’s clear that Michele’s next act will be her most authentic yet.
Why Chrisette’s Story Matters
Receiving an autism diagnosis as an adult — especially as a Black woman — is still relatively rare due to longstanding medical disparities and biases in mental health care. Michele’s openness brings much-needed visibility to neurodivergent women of color.
Her journey is not just about autism — it’s about reclaiming identity and healing publicly.
Social Media Reacts: Empowered, Emotional, and Proud
- “This makes me love her even more. What a queen.”
- “Chrisette always deserved grace — now we know just how much she carried.”
- “Autistic Black women deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated.”
Stay Tuned for More from Chrisette Michele
Whether it’s through music, podcasting, or powerful moments of honesty, Chrisette Michele is showing fans what strength looks like in real time.
And in her words, this is just the beginning.
What are your thoughts on Chrisette’s journey?
Drop a comment below and send her love as she continues to embrace her truth 💙
