Nathan Lane, a renowned actor, took almost a decade to publicly acknowledge his sexuality. Behind the scenes, he had incredible support from allies such as his late friend and co-star, Robin Williams. Lane, who recently received the Career Achievement Award at the Critics Choice Association’s Celebration of LGBTQ+ Cinema & Television, reflected on how Williams would protect him during a time when he wasn’t ready to come out as gay in the public eye.
At the age of 21, Lane came out to his family. He was open about his sexuality with friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry before being asked about it by a theater journalist in 1989. As Lane started playing gay roles, the topic of his sexuality became more prevalent, especially when he was interviewed by Oprah Winfrey during the promotion of ‘The Birdcage’ in 1996. Despite wishing he had been braver when directly asked about his sexuality on national television, Lane expressed his regret and admitted that he could have handled the situation better.
Despite his fears and feelings of being overwhelmed, Lane found solace in the advice given to him by Robin Williams. Williams reassured Lane that he didn’t have to discuss his sexuality if he wasn’t ready and proceeded to shield him during uncomfortable moments of public inquiry. The bond between Lane and Williams was not only on-screen but also stemmed from a deep friendship that transcended into providing emotional support during crucial times in Lane’s life.
Lane and Williams starred together in the adaptation of ‘La Cage aux Folles.’ Their portrayal of a gay couple navigating societal expectations gained critical acclaim and recognition. Lane’s performance in the film earned him a Golden Globe nomination and highlighted his talent as an actor beyond any labels. In 1999, Lane publicly came out after being inspired by the tragic death of Matthew Shepard, a young man who was a victim of a hate crime due to his sexual orientation. This incident motivated Lane to use his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in the media.
Williams, who was known for his support of the LGBTQ+ community, tragically passed away in 2014. However, his impact on Lane’s journey towards self-acceptance and advocacy was profound. Lane’s decision to come out publicly was not only a personal milestone but also a way to show solidarity with others facing similar challenges. His journey serves as a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of having supportive allies during times of vulnerability.
Nathan Lane’s path towards embracing his truth was a gradual process that was influenced by personal experiences, professional achievements, and the unwavering support of allies like Robin Williams. By sharing his story, Lane has contributed to the ongoing conversation surrounding LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in the entertainment industry and beyond.
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