Lea Michele Addresses Reading Rumor Origin, Demonstrates Literacy

Lea Michele has once again confronted the persistent internet rumor alleging that she cannot read, clarifying that the theory began as satire on the One More Thing podcast in 2017 before it went viral. Appearing on the Therapuss podcast with Jake Shane, Michele discussed the rumor’s impact, citing her academic achievements and family background as evidence against it. To directly address critics, she read cue cards on camera, while joking that some conspiracy theorists would still claim it was staged. Michele learned of the rumor from Glee creator Ryan Murphy and has described the personal hurt it has caused her and her family. The rumor, amplified by anecdotes from Naya Rivera’s memoir and social media memes, has been repeatedly refuted by Michele and supported by colleagues such as Keke Palmer. Despite her public efforts, Michele doubts the speculation will ever fully disappear online.