Famous individuals have utilized their influence to disclose their sexual orientations, thereby encouraging others. From the entertainment industry to sports, these public figures have been candid about their sexual preferences, contributing to a more accepting environment. This article revisits some of the most uplifting stories of celebrities coming out.
Raven-Symone
The former youthful actress Raven-Symone publicly acknowledged her sexuality in 2013 via a tweet that read, “I can finally get married! Yay government! So proud of you.” She later elaborated in a conversation with Oprah Winfrey that she identifies as a lesbian but avoids categorizing herself. “I don’t like labels, but I am more inclined towards women,” she stated.
Wentworth Miller
Wentworth Miller, an actor most recognized for his part in the television series Prison Break, declared himself gay in 2013. He revealed his orientation in an open letter where he turned down an invitation to a Russian film event due to the nation’s anti-LGBT policies. Miller penned, “Being a gay man, I have to decline.”
Elliot Page
Elliot Page, an actor famous for his roles in Juno and The Umbrella Academy, disclosed his transgender identity in December 2020. Through a sincere message on social media, Page announced, “I am trans, my pronouns are he/they, and my name is Elliot.” The disclosure was met with immense support from both fans and the LGBTQ+ community.
Dan Levy
Dan Levy, an actor and the co-creator of the popular television series Schitt’s Creek, came out as gay at the age of 18. During a discussion with Out magazine, Levy expressed, “My coming out was a matter of self-preservation. I didn’t want to spend my life living in fear.”
Janelle Monáe
Janelle Monáe, a singer and actress, has been transparent about identifying as pansexual. She clarified her orientation in a Rolling Stone interview, stating, “As a queer black woman in America who has been in relationships with both genders, I see myself as a free individual.”
Lance Bass
Lance Bass, a former member of *NSYNC, openly declared his gay orientation in a 2006 People magazine cover story. He admitted to concealing his sexuality from his group members and the general public during the peak of *NSYNC’s popularity. Since then, Bass has been a vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights.
Sara Ramirez
Sara Ramirez, known for her role in Grey’s Anatomy, came out as bisexual while speaking at the True Colors Fund’s 40 to None Summit in 2016. She declared, “I am deeply committed to initiatives that allow the voices of our youth to be heard and that encourage our youth to embrace their own intricate stories.”
Jonathan Van Ness
Jonathan Van Ness, a star of Queer Eye, publicly identified as gay in 2019. In a New York Times interview, he revealed, “I’ve been having nightmares for the past three months because I’m afraid to be this exposed with people.” Van Ness has since been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and mental well-being.
Cynthia Nixon
Cynthia Nixon, an actress from Sex and the City, publicly identified as bisexual in 2012. She disclosed her sexual orientation during a speech at the 7th Annual Equality Dinner for the Human Rights Campaign. Nixon has been an active proponent of LGBTQ+ rights.
These narratives represent just a fraction of the numerous celebrities who have been forthright about their sexual orientations. By being transparent about their identities, they have contributed to a more inclusive and accepting society. Their stories persist in motivating and enabling others to be true to themselves.
