Wentworth Miller Comes Out As Gay, Speaks Out Against Russian Violence

Wentworth Miller is out and proud, and has some strong words for the Russian government. In response to an invitation from the St. Petersburg International Film Festival, Miller responded with an open letter. While he notes that he has previously enjoyed visiting the country, "as a gay man, I must decline." Given the current political climate, President Putin's anti-gay laws, and the wave of homophobic violence across the nation, Miller's response is both valid and powerful. He continues, "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."

Best known for his starring role in Prison Break, Wentworth Miller also received raves as a screenwriter for the film Stoker. He joins the long list of celebrities and public figures speaking out against the situation in Russia, and his statement was followed up by support from GLAAD. The advocacy group says, "Wentworth’s bold show of support sends a powerful message to LGBT Russians, who are facing extreme violence and persecution: you are not alone." Any person's coming out is a cause for celebration, but when a public figure uses their platform for the greater good like this, we want to stand up and cheer. Welcome out, Wentworth. Here's hoping more people, nations, and corporations follow your lead, and stand up for Russia's LGBT community. (EW)