I came out to my parents when I was a junior in college. And it was pretty fine. They were more concerned with why I wasn't dating anyone. But now I'm 36, and I still don't date anyone.

In this quote, Billy Eichner reflects on his experience of coming out as gay to his parents during his time as a junior in college. He mentions that his parents' reaction was more focused on why he wasn't dating anyone rather than the news of his sexuality itself. This highlights how, for some, societal expectations around romantic relationships and dating can sometimes overshadow the significance of sexual orientation. Eichner’s casual tone suggests that his coming-out experience was relatively smooth, and that his parents' concern shifted toward his dating life rather than any judgment about his identity.

Eichner’s comment about still not dating anyone at 36 adds a layer of humor and self-reflection. While his parents were concerned with his lack of romantic involvement at the time, Eichner now finds himself still single, which he implies might be an ongoing source of their concern. The mention of age underscores the passage of time, suggesting that while the initial focus was on him coming out, the external pressure to be in a relationship continues into adulthood, highlighting the cultural expectation for individuals to find a partner.

The quote also speaks to the broader societal pressures related to dating and relationships. While coming out is a major life event for many LGBTQ+ individuals, Eichner’s mention of his parents’ concern with his single status touches on how cultural expectations around relationships continue to shape people’s lives. It also reflects the humor that Eichner often brings to personal topics, finding irony in how he remains single despite the ongoing concern over his dating life.

Ultimately, Eichner’s quote reveals the complexities of identity and relationships. It explores how the journey of coming out can sometimes be overshadowed by continuing societal pressures about romantic involvement. Through his humorous tone, Eichner also reflects on the often absurd expectations placed on individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, to conform to traditional ideals of dating and partnership.