Australians shocked as Peter FitzSimons “comes out”

2 January, 2014. 8:41

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PEOPLE around the country were deeply moved by the news this morning that Peter FitzSimons is finally ready to admit he is bald.

The former Wallaby great and lauded historian-turned-author ended years of speculation this morning on Twitter, saying he is “finally being true to himself”.

Rumors that FitzSimons was bald began to circulate in 2008, when he started wearing his now iconic red badanna in public. Since then, he’s had to vehemently deny claims that his “fashion choice” was actually a sophisticated cover up.

“For years and years, I kept telling myself I had hair,” said FitzSimons.

“I’ve been lying to myself and my family for far too long. I’m almost 55 now and I need to be true to myself,”

“Hopefully, this gives other sufferers of androgenic alopecia the courage to come out.” he said.

FitzSimons’ wife, Today Show host Lisa Wilkinson, has also revealed that she was one of few relatives that were privy to the fact that her husband was a “chrome-dome”.

“I knew before he even told me… I’ve kind of known this was the case since we got married. As you can imagine, It’s tough for everyone involved – but no one is feeling it like Petey. He’s knows I’m here for him 100%”

Tributes have been flowing in for FitzSimons, with fellow victims of androgenic alopecia taking to social media to offer their condolences to the 53-year-old.

Bygone PM and baldness suffer, John Howard, says Mr FitzSimons is showing great courage in the face of adversity.

“When I was diagnosed with androgenic alopecia, my prognosis was very grim,” said Howard in a statement this morning.

“I thought my life was over – that happened when I was 29,”

“But I didn’t let it beat me… neither should Peter.” he said.

Androgenic alopecia is a condtion that affects the normal functions of epidermis and triggers hair loss in males. Currently there is no cure for the disorder – which claims the dignity of over 35 000 Australian men each year.

To show support to the Androgenic Alopecia Foundation, please donate to this worthy cause instead.