When Ricky Martin performs in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch next April, it will be 15 years since he last brought a tour to New Zealand. We look back at what has happened in his life in the interim. In 2000, Ricky Martin was a breakout artist, who had a large gay following. Rumours swirled about his own sexuality, and he was asked about it in interviews. In one, he told The Mirror "I don't think I should have to tell anyone if I am gay or not, or who I've slept with or not." In 2008 Martin became the father of twin boys, Matteo and Valentino, born by a surrogate mother: In 2010, the singer came out. "I am proud to say that I am a fortunate homosexual man. I am very blessed to be who I am,” he said, citing his kids as inspiration for speaking out. "These years in silence and reflection made me stronger and reminded me that acceptance has to come from within, and that this kind of truth gives me the power to conquer emotions I didn't even know existed." In 2011, during his acceptance speech of the Vito Russo Award at the 22nd GLAAD Media Awards, Martin publicly thanked his boyfriend, Carlos González Abella, an economist – however the couple broke up this year. He's also been a judge on The Voice Australia Been on Broadway, and a guest star on Glee And put out three albums: Almas del Silencio (2003), Life (2005) and Música + Alma + Sexo (2011).Martin will perform in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch next April. More info here GayNZ.com staff - 15th July 2014