Ellen Page is gay. The movie star came out to a crowd of teenagers at the Time To THRIVE conference in Las Vegas. In a room full of young people learning to deal with their own sexuality, Page announced that she was “tired of hiding”.
Her announcement at the Bally’s Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas came as a shock to many. Ellen Page cited the recent confession of potential NFL linebacker Michael Sam as a huge encouragement to her to be honest about her sexuality. The 26 year-old actress believes it is her responsibility to serve as an example to young men and women who want to be true to themselves.
“I’m here today because I am gay,” Page announced to stunned audience . “And because maybe I can make a difference. To help others have an easier and more hopeful time. Regardless, for me, I feel a personal obligation and a social responsibility.”
Her revelation comes at a time when her new movie, X-Men: Days Of Future Past , is in post production and ready to be released in May of this year. She is also well known for her role as a pregnant teenager in the dramedy Juno and the young architect, Ariadne, in Inception .
Page admitted to the crowd that she had felt a great deal of pressure in show business. Regarded by many as a beautiful young women, her choice of dress and outward appearance were constantly called into question. Feeling the constant public examination, she said that part of her decision to come out as gay was to be free.
Congratulations, @EllenPage for taking the steps to live openly and come out as lesbian. #comingout #timetoTHRIVE http://t.co/PneoSUunRk
— HumanRightsCampaign (@HRC) February 15, 2014
Ellen Page is as brave as she is badass. #muchrespect
— Ben McCool (@BenMcCool) February 15, 2014
“ @shannonwoodward : I have never been more proud of a human than I am of @EllenPage right now.” Thank you
— Ellen Page (@EllenPage) February 15, 2014
Her decision to come out will most likely have little to no impact on her career as an actress. However, Ellen Page’s decision to announce to the world that she is gay will probably do wonders for her own conscience.