Eric Rutherford opens up about ‘first love’ who took his own life after feeling he ‘aged out of community’
The IMG model joined psychotherapist Matthew Dempsey on his YouTube channel to discuss being a "daddy"
By Steve Brown
Eric Rutherford has opened up about his ex-boyfriend who committed suicide because he felt he had “aged out of the community”.
The 51-year-old IMG model joined psychotherapist Matthew Dempsey on his YouTube channel to discuss what it means to be a “daddy” and during their conversation – which was mainly light hearted – Rutherford opened up about his friend who committed suicide.
After confessing he had always been attracted to older men – despite now dating someone 17 years younger – Rutherford spoke about dating a 42 year old when he was 20 and although they ended, they remained friends until his untimely death.
He said: “When I was 20, I dated somebody who was 42.
“It was probably the first big love of my life. Which actually ended up being a sad story.
“We broke up, but we remained friends for many, many years. He actually committed suicide, because he felt that he had aged out of the community.
“[He was in his] 60s maybe. He was wildly accomplished. Good-looking guy. Incredible friends.
“He felt invisible in this community and the culture. He wasn’t wanted.
“I, as a 51 year old, in certainly gay culture but in culture in general I am living my best life to the fullest.
“And I don’t have it all together by any means. And every day I still wake up, I’m curious. I want to learn more.
“I want to experience more. But I also embrace what I have done.”
Watch the full interview below: