Taking to Twitter the 29-year-old star explained he "started to find boys and girls attractive" from his early teens. Although Carter did not use the orientation labels "gay" or "bisexual", Billboard later confirmed Carter identifies as the latter.

"I'd like to say something that I feel is important to myself and my identity that has been weighing on my chest for half my life," he said.

"This doesn't bring me shame, just a weight and burden I have held onto for a long time that I would like lifted off me."

Carter, who has previously dated Lindsay Lohan and Hilary Duff, said he had his first "experience" with a man at 17.

"It wasn't until I was 17-years-old, after a few relationships with girls, I had an experience with a male that I had an attraction to who I also worked with and grew up with."

The pop star concluded his message by saying, "the ultimate goal for me is to be satisfied I never want to be a figure of disappointment," before quoting Boy George who has been an open advocate for discussing sexual orientation: "I never felt as though I didn't belong, I just acted as though I did."

Having spent most of his life in the public eye, Carter thanked his fans for their support. Since posting the lengthy message on Saturday, the tweet has clocked up 4,500 retweets and 22,000 likes, as well as 1,700 replies saying it was an important step in Carter being his "authentic self."

It has been a tough year for Carter who spoke out earlier this year about his battles with depression and an eating disorder that led him to be hospitalisedafter body shaming comments from fans according to People Magazine.

In July, the star was arrested for driving under the influence and marijuana possession, with his long-term girlfriend Madison Parker also involved in the incident. The pair announced their split following Carter's message over the weekend.

"Aaron and Madison love each other and respect one another dearly. It was a mutual decision and Aaron's personal statement released speaks for itself. Now back to the music," a representative of Carter told People Magazine.