Wentworth Miller, he of Prison Break and screenwriter of last years Stoker, took a stand against Russia's recent anti-LGBT legislation yesterday by refusing to attend the St. Petersburg International Film Festival and publicly opened up about his sexuality for the first time.
In a letter to the festival's organisers, that was also posted on gay rights organisation GLAAD's website, the British-born actor said he could not 'in good conscience' attend the event because of the country's stance.
The actor wrote: 'Thank you for your kind invitation. As someone who has enjoyed visiting Russia in the past and can also claim a degree of Russian ancestry, it would make me happy to say yes. However, as a gay man, I must decline.'
I am deeply troubled by the current attitude toward and treatment of gay men and women by the Russian government. The situation is in no way acceptable, and I cannot in good conscience participate in a celebratory occasion hosted by a country where people like myself are being systematically denied their basic right to live and love openly.
'Perhaps, when and if circumstances improve. I'll be free to make a different choice. Until then.'
Miller's statement was celebrated by GLAAD and other LGBT rights associations, with GLAAD spokesman Wilson Cruz saying: 'Wentworth’s bold show of support sends a powerful message to LGBT Russians, who are facing extreme violence and persecution: you are not alone. As people from across the globe continue to speak out against Russia’s horrific law, more celebrities and corporations should follow his courageous lead in openly condemning Russia’s anti-LGBT law.'
While there's a lot of consternation out there about Miller's 'revelation', we're more inclined to be in shock over the fact that he's 41 and looks like this.
Fourty-one. We'll have what he's having thanks.