People have been left shocked by this controversial story…
“It is of nobody’s business. They should leave the actor alone and mind their own business,” wrote one fan.
“I can never work out why everyone thinks it’s their business about another’s sexuality. Live and let live in peace and harmony,” another agreed.
Scroll on to find out more…
Since the annual observance of LGBT History Month began in the U.S. in 1994, the growth and acceptance of this community has been absolutely staggering.
And, because of the growing numbers of barriers being broken down, more and more people are coming out openly and proudly as LGBTQ+.
But it’s not always easy…
Despite amazing development, an array of sick and narrow-minded individuals who spread constant hatred and fear in this community are still in existence.
Whether it’s in the form of cyber-bullying or in the form of a violent physical act, discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community is rife.
No type of discrimination is okay.
But it still exists.
It’s a heartbreaking reality that hate crimes against the community still happen.
People can still hold bigoted views…
It is common knowledge that those who discriminate against and abuse members of the LGBTQ+ community are often uneducated on the topic, and are lashing out against something unfamiliar to them.
So education is key.
The more people that are educated about the community, the fewer hate crimes and attacks there will be against LGBTQ+ identifying people.
And it needs to start early!
While many believe that these issues should be addressed at an older age, there are some calling for children as young as 5-years-0ld to be taught about the community.
But one area of LGBTQ+ education that’s super important is in the area of coming out.
Coming out is a deeply personal and private experience, and outsiders should not be interfering.
Forcing someone out is a cruel act of bullying.
And it’s an issue that should be taken seriously.
This brings us to today’s story…
In which the public has forced an eighteen-year-old actor to make a statement about his bisexuality against his will.
Now, you probably recognize Kit Connor.
He’s one of the breakout stars from the Netflix smash hit, Heartstopper.
The show deals with the coming out stories of a whole bunch of LGBTQ+ youth.
However, many viewers of the show accused the apparently straight actor of queerbaiting to gain fans.
Connor has actually spoken out on the matter before.
“We’re still all so young,” he said on Reign With Josh Smith. “To start sort of speculating about our sexualities and maybe pressuring us to come out when maybe we’re not ready.”
“For me, I just feel perfectly confident and comfortable with my sexuality.
“But I don’t feel the need to really, you know — I’m not too big on labels and things like that,” Connor explained.
“I’m not massive about that. I don’t feel like I need to label myself, especially not publicly,” he said.
However, even after these statements, certain members of the public couldn’t resist hounding Connor for answers about his sexuality.
Eventually prompting him to release a shocking tweet…
“Back for a minute. I’m bi. Congrats for forcing an 18-year-old to out himself. I think some of you missed the point of the show. bye,” he wrote.
And fans were quick to jump to his defense…
“I truly don’t understand how people can watch Heartstopper and then gleefully spend their time speculating about sexualities and judging based on stereotypes,” wrote one.
“I hope all those people are embarrassed as F**K. Kit you are amazing.”
Another added: “Not to mention u don’t EVER have to tell them. If coming out empowers you — great. But if you simply live your truth without feeling the need to make an announcement, you’re equally as valid.”
“U guys are so awful. Like the whole show was about HOMOPHOBIA and someone who was in the CLOSET yet y’all made the actor out himself which completely goes against the point of the show. You guys are disgusting and should be ashamed of yourselves. I’m so sorry Kit,” offered a third.
Where do you stand on this issue?