If you don’t live under a rock, it’s easy to see that over the years, people have continued to feel more comfortable with openly coming out and embracing who they truly are – and celebrities are no exception to this! Celebrities have a unique experience in this as they may face hatred and criticism from the public eye on a much grander scale than a normal person, but in coming out, they also show their fans and many that idolize them that there is nothing wrong with not being straight and help to normalize love of all kinds. Whether non-binary, lesbian, queer, or ditching labels altogether, here are a few movie stars that have come out over the last few years.
Nikki Blonsky
In June of 2020, Nikki Blonsky, 33, best known for her leading role in the movie Hairspray, just had to let the world know! The actress came out as gay in a TikTok video with the song “I’m Coming Out,” by Diana Ross playing in the background with the quote, “Hi, it’s Nikki Blonsky from the movie Hairspray. I’m Gay.” Since her debut as the beautiful Tracy Turnblad, Blonsky has been in several TV shows, movies, podcasts, and has dabbled in voice acting. Most recently, you can see her in Ghost in the Graveyard and hear her as the voice of Lady Paw Paw in Pup Star: World Tour.
Janelle Monae and Tessa Thompson
While coming out as pansexual in 2018, Janelle Monae, 36, came out earlier this year as nonbinary. While continuing to use she/they pronouns, Monae broke the news during an interview with Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith, and Adrienne Banfield-Norris during a Red Table Talk interview. While also a talented musician and author, Monae has also starred in the movies Hidden Figures, Moonlight, and Antebellum.
Speaking of Monae, they have been rumored to be dating close friend and Thor: Ragnarok actress, Tessa Thompson, as far back as 2015. Despite the 7 year connection, the two have only shared that they have a special bond and love for one another, and are both very private people. Tessa Thompson, 38, did come out as bisexual back in 2018 amidst the rumors of their relationship, but earlier this year, Monae continued to state that they have no interest in announcing who they are dating. Fans will just have to continue to wait to see if their suspicions are true! Thompson can be seen in the new MARVEL movie, Thor: Love and Thunder, Men in Black: International, and Avengers: Endgame.
Rebel Wilson
A few months ago, without stating her sexuality or giving herself a label, Rebel Wilson shared with the world a picture of herself and her girlfriend on Instagram, sharing a sweet sentiment about her “Disney Princess.” Sadly, the Pitch Perfect actress has stated that she felt pressured to come out due to an Australian newspaper’s plan to release a story on her sexuality and relationship. However, while her coming out was not under the best of circumstances, Wilson and her girlfriend, Ramona Argruma, have continued to be a beautiful couple, and the actress who is now 42 goes to show that it’s never too late to discover and explore your sexuality. Since Wilson’s major success in Pitch Perfect and Pitch Perfect 2, she’s starred in Cats, The Hustle, Jojo Rabbit, and most recently, Senior Year.
Jerrod Carmichael
Earlier this year, well-known comedian and actor Jerrod Carmichael came out. Carmichael is known for his roles in The Neighbors, Transformers: The Last Knight, and his TV show, The Carmichael Show, as well as several comedy specials. Carmichael came out in his HBO special, “Rothaniel,” which was taped in February but didn’t air until April, but had made comments about his sexual encounters with men as far back as 2019. Carmichael is currently dating his writing partner, Ari Katcher.
Elliot Page
Elliot Page, best known as the star of Juno and as Viktor in the popular Netflix series Umbrella Academy, came out as transgender in December 2020. He broke this news along with the news that he was divorcing his then-wife, Emma Portner. Elliot Page’s open transition has been in the headlines since coming out, as even his role in Umbrella Academy transitioned along with him, changing his name from Vanya to Viktor in the newest season. Page is said to have stayed single since transitioning.
Inspiration For Living Your Own Truth?
Why do we care when celebrities come out? Obviously, the negative reactions are from people who are simply unaccepting and angry that other people feel free to live as their true selves. However, many of the rest of us find a sense of comfort and safety in this. Celebrities who are able to reveal these truths make life just a bit easier for people who are struggling to do the same. Hopefully, you’ve found inspiration in these stories. Remember that there are gay and bisexual dating apps, community organizations, and other safe places to receive support as you walk through your own coming-out journey.