While the world has certainly become more accepting of other people’s differences, there is still a long way to go for true equality for everyone, even in seemingly more progressive areas like Hollywood.
Actress Kate Winslet has discussed why there are many LGBT+ actors who do not feel safe to come out publicly.
Kate Winslet has been a staple in Hollywood since her career began in 1991.
Kate is known for her work in films like Titanic, Iris, Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind, Little Children, Finding Neverland, Revolutionary Road and so many more.
She’s also known for speaking her mind about what she believes in!
Kate recently discussed how many actors feel that their sexuality in real life may limit their ability to get certain roles.
“I cannot tell you the number of young actors I know — some well known, some starting out — who are terrified their sexuality will be revealed and that it will stand in the way of their being cast in straight roles,” Kate revealed in a recent interview.
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“Now that’s [expletive]-ed up,” Kate continued.
“A well-known actor has just got an American agent and the agent said, ‘I understand you are bisexual. I wouldn’t publicize that,'” Kate went on. “I can think of at least four actors absolutely hiding their sexuality.”
“It’s painful,” she said.
“Because they fear being found out. And that’s what they say. ‘I don’t want to be found out.'”
Kate added that this seems to effect “men more than anything,” and added that “Hollywood has to drop that dated crap of, ‘Can he play straight because, apparently, he’s gay?'”
“That should be almost illegal,” Kate suggested.
“You would not believe how widespread it is. And it can’t just be distilled to the question about gay actors playing gay parts. Because actors, in some cases, are choosing not to come out for personal reasons. And it’s nobody’s business.”
We couldn’t agree more!
“Perhaps privacy. Perhaps conditioning and shame,” Kate offered as reasons someone might choose not to come out.
Kate also offered her opinions on straight actors playing gay roles, saying, “We could have had a conversation about how I feel about playing a lesbian and possibly taking that role from somebody.”
Kate explained that at least for her current film *Ammonite*, the part was not going to go to another actor.
“But I’m done with not being honest about what my real opinions are, and I know the part was never offered to anybody else. In taking this part I had an opportunity to bring an LGBTQ story into living rooms,” she said.
Kate said that the solution to the problem in Hollywood is for “more people to speak the way I am.”
“I don’t intend to browbeat or take on Hollywood. We’re just talking about young actors who might be considering joining this profession, and finding a way to make it more open,” Kate continued.
“For there to be less judgment, discrimination and homophobia.”
It’s awesome to see a celebrity speak up for a cause that they are so passionate about!
h/t: The Sunday Times