“Embracing my identity as an openly gay actor comes with potential drawbacks like possibly never earning an esteemed award or landing the part of a superhero. But for me, being an inspiration and a haven for others outshines any claim to fame.”
Glee star Chris Colfer has opened up regarding the pressures he faced to hide his sexuality during his portrayal as Kurt in the hit TV show.
The thought of Glee without Chris Colfer seems unimaginable now. During that era, representation of the LGBTQ+ community was limited in media, but Kurt’s role was pivotal in advancing diverse storytelling on television.
Chris had not come out publicly when Glee first aired in May 2009. However, during the show’s inaugural season, he came out as gay in an interview with Chelsea Handler, and he began to actively support LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
Initially, Chris listened to advice to stay in the closet. He shared, “I pretended for some time, yet I pointed out to them, ‘With my voice and manner, it’s impossible to hide.’ They convinced me, ‘If you keep silent about it, the accolades will come eventually.’”
However, an encounter with a Glee fan changed his perspective. Chris tells the story of being secretly handed an envelope by a young fan, whose parents were unaware: “Inside was a ‘Thank You’ card and a paperclip chain in rainbow colors.”
Chris added, “It was then I realized taking a stand was more meaningful.”
In terms of his outed status potentially affecting his career, Chris stated: “The prevailing thought was that being open might mean sacrificing major roles and awards, but to me, being a beacon of hope and refuge is more valuable than fame.”
Chris’s bravery has earned widespread praise on Twitter. A fan posted: “It’s unmistakable that Chris Colfer came along at just the right moment to bring about change. Prioritizing representation over personal fame, he has helped make our world more accepting and varied.”
Another commented: “Regardless of the reluctant recognition of Glee’s impact on society, Chris Colfer truly initiated a transformation in television.”
It’s unmistakable that Chris Colfer came along at just the right moment to bring about change. Prioritizing representation over personal fame, he has helped make our world more accepting and varied https://t.co/9rjH7GksCA
— sayani :)(: (@kgleeb) June 4, 2023
Regardless of the reluctant recognition of Glee’s impact on society, Chris Colfer truly initiated a transformation in television https://t.co/0Np2Idh3Ju
— yoshi’s version 🩵🍉 (@hedwigyitzhak) June 5, 2024
Beyond his Glee days, Chris has forged a successful path as an author of children’s books, with his latest work, Roswell Johnson Saves the World, now hitting the shelves.
