Sir Ian McKellen has shared his thoughts on queer celebrities staying in the closet, calling it “silly” and encouraging them to live openly. However, not everyone is embracing his advice.
In a recent interview with The Times, the 85-year-old acting legend reflected on the queer history of Edward II, a play about the relationship between the titular king and Piers Gaveston. McKellen, who played Gaveston in 1969—almost 20 years before coming out publicly—spoke about how attitudes toward queer representation and fame have changed over the decades.
“Don’t Listen to Your Advisers, Listen to Your Heart”
Discussing the pressures celebrities face, McKellen acknowledged how agents and managers often discourage athletes and actors from coming out, prioritizing financial interests over personal happiness.
“I would imagine young footballers are probably, like actors, getting very bad advice from agents who are worried about their own incomes. But the first Premier League footballer to come out will become the most famous footballer in the world, with all the agencies begging for his name on their products.”
He also firmly stated that he has never met anyone who regretted coming out:
“Being in the closet is silly—there’s no need for it. Don’t listen to your advisers, listen to your heart. Listen to your gay friends who know better. Come out. Get into the sunshine.”
Mixed Reactions to McKellen’s Statement
McKellen’s comments quickly went viral, drawing both praise and criticism. Some felt his intention was positive, but questioned whether he fully considered the dangers and complexities of coming out.
🔹 “Well, they should come out on their own terms.”
🔹 “His heart was in the right place, but it’s not easy at all to just come out, whether you’re famous or not.”
🔹 “We’re all entitled to a private life.”
However, these concerns are not necessarily in conflict with McKellen’s point. He acknowledged that LGBTQ+ people “always have to be alert” about oppression and discrimination. His words were not a demand, but rather an encouragement—especially for those whose decisions are being influenced by external pressures rather than personal readiness.
McKellen’s Perspective: A Life Lived Openly
Having spent 66 years in the acting industry and 37 years as an openly gay man, McKellen has witnessed shifting attitudes toward LGBTQ+ visibility firsthand. He came out publicly in 1988, at a time when many feared career repercussions. Instead, he thrived, becoming one of the most respected actors in the world.
His message is not about forcing anyone to come out, but rather challenging the notion that staying closeted is always the “safer” or “smarter” choice. It’s a reminder that freedom and authenticity often outweigh the fears created by industry advisers.
“Suggesting celebrities ‘listen to [their] heart’ rather than the money-hungry voices whispering in their ear isn’t a demand. It’s a gift of encouragement.”
For those who feel trapped by expectations, McKellen’s words offer a lifeline—an assurance that a life lived openly and proudly is worth embracing.
