With the much-anticipated release of the new film Broken English, which delves into the life of celebrated singer Marianne Faithfull, it’s a fitting time to reflect on what this iconic figure has shared about her bisexuality over the years.
An Iconic Career in Music
Marianne Faithfull first captured the public’s attention with her hit single “As Tears Go By.” She achieved significant success again with her 1979 album, Broken English, which earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. Throughout her career, Faithfull was known for her soulful voice and candidness, both in her music and her personal life.
Faithfull continued to create music up until her last album release in 2021. She passed away in January 2025 at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by many.
Open About Her Bisexuality
Marianne Faithfull was vocally open about being bisexual throughout her life. She first came out as bisexual at the age of 17, and her relationships throughout her life included both men and women. Among her well-known relationships was her time with Mick Jagger from 1966 to 1970. Faithfull was married three times: to John Dunbar, Ben Brierly, and Giorgio Della Terza.
In a 2020 interview with Curve magazine, Faithfull addressed the challenges of same-sex relationships in the 1960s amid her growing fame. "I don’t really do it anymore. It was something I did when I was young and it was a lot of fun," she said. On how she self-identifies, she stated, "I would say I’m bisexual."
Faithfull also spoke about the significant impact her gay friends had on her life. In 2008, during an interview with LoverBoy, she reflected on why she believed she had such a strong LGBTQ+ following: "One of my great strengths was my gay friends and this goes back to when I was really young. I never treated my gay friends any different to my other friends."
When discussing marriage and civil partnerships, she expressed some skepticism, stating, "I can’t say I really believe in marriage," and reflecting on the notion that marriage might be "a bit of a step back." She clarified that while she had girlfriends, she didn’t "actually fall in love."
The Film: "Broken English"
The new film Broken English is a documentary that explores Faithfull’s life and career. Directed by Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard, the film takes a unique approach, blending documentary with fiction. Tilda Swinton and George MacKay portray fictional characters who help narrate Faithfull’s story, providing a distinctive lens through which viewers can experience her past.
The film features interviews, images, and clips, including Faithfull’s last-ever singing performance. It has been described as "an intimate and unflinching exploration of a fractured yet unbreakable life shaped by fame, creativity, and relentless public scrutiny."
Release and Reception
Broken English premiered at the 2025 Venice International Film Festival and is scheduled for release in the UK on March 20. Anticipation for the film has been high, reflecting Faithfull’s enduring influence and the interest in her complex life story.
Marianne Faithfull's legacy as a music legend and a candid voice about her sexuality continues to inspire many. Her openness about her bisexuality has resonated with the LGBTQ+ community, and her friendships and relationships have been a source of strength and inspiration throughout her life. As the world prepares to revisit her story through Broken English, her influence is bound to reach new audiences and remind us of the power of being true to oneself.
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