'Glee' Star Charice 'Overwhelmed' by Support After Changing Name to Jake

Charice Pempengco, now Jake Zyrus, played Rachel Berry rival Sunshine Corazon on "Glee," and became the first Asian solo singer in history to land in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 albums chart. The Filipino singer just tweeted for the first time with his new name and identity, thanking fans for their "love comments" of support (while wisely ignoring trolls).

Zyrus performed a duet of "Because You Loved Me" with idol Celine Dion at just 16-years-old. Oprah Winfrey had dubbed the singer "The most talented girl in the world," and appearances on Oprah's show and "Ellen" put the star on the national radar.

Zyrus came out as gay in 2013. In 2014, on Winfrey's "Where Are They Now," Zyrus said "my soul is male," and addressed the idea of a gender transition. "I'm not going to go through that stage where I change everything. I'll cut my hair and wear boy clothes and everything, but that's all."

Fast-forward to 2017, and Zyrus just changed his Twitter from Charice to Jake:

My first tweet as Jake. Overwhelmed. Saw all your love comments and I'm so happy. Finally. I love you, everyone and see you soon.

— Jake Zyrus (@jakezyrus) June 20, 2017

I won't let anyone ruin this moment. I won't let anyone ruin my happiness. Thank you to all the beautiful write ups about me.

— Jake Zyrus (@jakezyrus) June 20, 2017

Fans have been supportive, tweeting encouragement:

The Charice we knew is now @jakezyrus, and we're supportive as to how he confidently identifies himself. Self-actualize and be happy! 🌈

— Your Lawyer Says (@YourLawyerSays) June 19, 2017

Talent always wins. All the love, Jake Zyrus ❤️🌈

— MARTIN 🌈 (@mertenpener) June 20, 2017

Charice Pempengco is now Jake Zyrus. Respect. It's his choice and his life! 🌈

— Miss Krizzy (@krizzy_kalerqui) June 19, 2017

[via: People]

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