Wentworth Miller Comes Out as Gay: Ellen DeGeneres, Neil Patrick Harris and More Tweet Support

Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Andy Cohen and Rose McGowan also took to social media to say they're proud of the Prison Break star

By Alyssa Toomey Aug 22, 2013 8:20 PMTags
Wentworth Miller, Ellen Degeneres, Neil Patrick HarrisGetty Images, AP Images

Yesterday, Wentworth Miller publicly came out as a gay man to protest Russia's anti-gay laws.

The Prison Break star opened up about his sexuality after he was invited to attend the St. Petersburg International Film Festival, declining the offer because, "as a gay man" he is "deeply troubled by the current attitude toward and treatment of gay men and women by the Russian government." 

Last month, the country implemented a controversial new law, banning "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations around minors," which prohibits the public discussion of gay rights and relationships anywhere children might hear it.

In a letter written to Maria Averbakh, the director of the festival, the 41-year-old star writes, "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."

Since his statement, a number of celebs, including the actor's former Fox costars, have come out in support of the Underworld star. Here's what the Twitterverse is saying:

Ellen DeGeneres: "I'm proud of Wentworth Miller for speaking out in support of equality. Russia doesn't know what they're missing."

Neil Patrick Harris: "Well done, Wentworth Miller. Bravo."

Andy Cohen: "little behind on the news: Good for Wentworth Miller!!! #courage"

Jesse Tyler Ferguson: "So proud of #WentworthMiller. Coming out can be hard & scary but coming out to send a message of tolerance is heroic."

Darren Young: "Congrats 2 Wentworth Miller on living his life to the fullest now #beproud!! Big step 2 take. Not easy but well worth it!"

Rose McGowan: "Happy for Wentworth Miller."

Danay Garcia: "Challenges are presented to us as affirmations of our strength. I support you #Wentworth Miller. Incredible human being."

Amaury Nolasco: "I applaud my boy, Wentworth Miller's courageousness. I'm proud of you brother, for standing up for what you believe in. Enough is enough!

Rockmond Dunbar: "Congrats Went!!! Live free brutha! Proud of you!"

Justin Mikita: "Proud of your bravery, Wentworth Miller. #equality"