Stewart made his fortune through cable television and long-distance calling. He kept his identity hidden until 2006, when he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, which later claimed his life. Many suspected that his illness was the reason he decided to "out" himself, but according to Stewart, this is untrue. In an interview on the "Dave Ramsey Radio Show", Stewart said he came out because a tabloid was about to reveal his identity, and he wanted to tell his own story before they did.