Kim Petras Recalls Parents Role In Helping Her Stay Alive As A Suicidal Kid

Kim Petras has opened up about her days as a suicidal kid.

She shared that her parents played a crucial role in keeping her alive, as they affirmed her transgender identity as a child. The German singer-songwriter disclosed why she appreciated her mom during her Grammy acceptance speech in February. She also thanked artists like Madonna for paving the way for her to live her truth during the event unashamedly.

When Petras sat with Out Magazine, she ensured that she divulged details from her life that many fans were previously unaware of. The California-based beauty began by revealing that she "was very suicidal as a kid" and would not be here if her parents had not believed in her talent.

That motivation led her to "thank the person who's responsible for me being alive" during the Grammy Awards ceremony, where she became the first transgender woman to win in the 'best pop group/duo performance category.' She was awarded alongside English singer Sam Smith for their collab single, "Unholy."

As the interview progressed, the "Heart to Break" hitmaker slammed the widespread and unchecked transphobia sweeping through today's society, stating, "I hate that another generation is going through this, and I hate that young kids are going through the same sh** I was going through, and that just isn't changing."

The Juno Award recipient added that it was "sad" to have an agenda against LGBTQ members, as she "just never understood why people were so obsessed with what people do to be happy."

Petras' worry about transgender lives is not misplaced, as the Human Rights Campaign reported that "at least 34 transgender and gender non-conforming people" were killed in the United States throughout 2022. The American Civil Liberties Union has also tracked 471 — a record number — bills introduced during the 2023 legislative session targeting the limitation of LGBTQIA+ rights.

Upon receiving her Grammy award, the iHeartRadio Music Awards winner thanked her co-collaborator for "graciously" wanting her "to accept this award because I'm the first transgender woman to win." Per The Blast, the 30-year-old queen even dubbed Smith "a true angel and hero" in her life. Petras' accolades did not stop there as she effused about the "I'm Not The Only One" singer backstage:

"Sam has been a special friend and supporter of mine. It's special to share this with someone who has given me such important advice in my life, dealing with the opinions of people. I feel like I've learned so much. Sam will never get rid of me, and we'll sing the song for eternity."

She then took to Instagram to upload two images, with the first showing a shirtless Smith looking deadpan at viewers. The Academy Awards winner's tattoo of two men kissing could not be missed as it sat boldly on his bare arm.

The "Fire on Fire" hitmaker's anchor-designed drop earring and blond-dyed hair added to the mood before he appeared in the next slide, sharing a heartwarming hug with Petras onstage. In this shot, the "Too Good at Goodbyes" singer donned a shiny, strapless outfit that showed off the numerous tattoos on his body. Beneath the post, the Republic Records signee penned:

"Sam, thank you for changing my life with Unholy. I love you so much and I know how special this album is to you, your fans, and to me. Congratulations on the stunning, slutty, glorious GLORIA. I love you forever. You will never get rid of me now. EVERYONE STREAM GLORIA !!!!!!"

The "Coconuts" singer also took a moment to reflect on her journey, bringing special attention to the naysayers who told her that she would be a "niche artist" whose songs would "only be played in gay clubs."

Seeing what she had accomplished, Petras hoped that kids who had a problem "belonging" or having "a place in society" would "feel inspired" to be themselves. She added that being their authentic self would get them "rewarded for your talent rather than your gender or sexuality."