Contrary to what a Photoshopped image on the cover of People magazine’s January 7, 2012 issue would have you believe, Taylor Lautner is not “out and proud” as the phony banner headline suggests.
The doctored cover claims the Twilight actor was “tired of the rumors” and suddenly feeling “more liberated, and happier than I’ve ever been.”
The hoax hit the internet with a vengeance on Monday, fooling many including Def Jam exec Russell Simmons. He tweeted, “Proud of Taylor Lautner for his bravery and his courage.”
After discovering that the cover was fraudulent, Simmons hit Twitter again, “Disappointed that people would joke about someone coming out about their sexuality. Let Taylor Lautner be whoever he wants to be.”
People magazine confirmed that the cover is “absolutely fake.” Check out a closer view after the jump:
Photos: WENN, Eonline