Kate Winslet ‘knows four actors hiding sexuality due to Hollywood homophobia'

Kate Winslet has revealed that she knows a number of Hollywood actors who have been forced to hide their sexualities due to homophobia in the industry.

The Titanic actress, 45, said that homophobia is so rampant in Hollywood, that some stars have remained ‘in the closet’ due to fears they will be scrutinised if they come out as gay.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Kate said the situation is ‘painful’ to think about because her actor peers are unable to be their true selves and live their lives the way they truly want to.

The much-loved actress explained: “I can think of at least four actors absolutely hiding their sexuality.

“It’s painful. Because they fear being found out. And that’s what they say. ‘I don’t want to be found out.'”

The Revolutionary Road star went on to address the discrimination which young stars face in relation to their sexuality when they first get their foot in the door of their career.

Kate insisted: “I cannot tell you the number of young actors I know — some well-known, some starting out — who are terrified their sexuality will be revealed and that it will stand in the way of their being cast in straight roles,” she said.

She went on to call the whole situation ‘incredibly f**ed up’ as she claimed that some Hollywood agents tell young film stars not to publicise their sexuality because it may damage their careers.

Although she’s seen it happen with a handful of women, Kate noted that the stigma applies to ‘men more than anything’.

During the eye-opening interview, Kate said the process of telling actors to hide their sexuality in order for their careers to flourish should be ‘illegal’.

“That should be almost illegal. You would not believe how widespread it is.”

Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk