Jim Parsons was ‘frightened’ of Pride parades before coming out
Jim Parsons. (Frazer Harrison/Getty)
Jim Parsons has revealed that he used to be afraid of Pride parades before coming out publicly in 2012.
“The sight of Pride parades frightened me, because I knew that there were plenty of people around me – whether they were in my life or I just was aware of them – that derided this show of pride,” Parsons told Variety.
The Big Bang Theory star admitted that he avoided parts of New York City while living there so he could stay away from Pride parades and events.
Since coming out, the actor has embraced Pride more readily.
“Once it was out in the public, I was like, ‘Well f*** you! If you still have a problem with gay people, you directly have a problem with me. Being a full-fledged member of it and claiming it, there was just an elation there, and there still is!” he said.
Jim Parsons married husband Todd Spiewak in 2017
The gay actor announced his marriage to Todd Spiewak in 2017. Speaking to CNN last year, Parsons said he was surprised at how “meaningful” the day was.
“We did it because it was meaningful, but to actually go through the wedding; to be there in front of all of your loved ones, and your family. It gave such meaning to doing this so people could bear witness to it.
“It meant so much more to me than I was prepared for. Especially having grown up where it wasn’t a possibility, and so it wasn’t a dream.
“The sight of pride parades frightened me, because I knew that there were plenty of people around me – whether they were in my life or I just was aware of them – that derided this show of pride.”
– Jim Parsons
“I’m thrilled we did it, and it feels so traditional to me, it feels so ‘mom and dad’… but not, obviously!”
The Big Bang Theory recently ended after 12 seasons
Hit TV comedy The Big Bang Theory came to an end in May after 12 seasons. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Parsons said the show was cancelled when he decided not to sign on for a 13th season.
Jim Parsons (Christopher Polk/Getty)
“It was the first time in my life of doing this show that it occurred to me that I might want to not do another contract after [Season] 12 was up,” Parsons told The Hollywood Reporter.
Parsons added that once he made the decision to leave the show, which also stars Kaley Cuoco and Johnny Galecki, he was resolute.
“I don’t know if it’s because I’m an Aries or just because maybe I’m in touch with myself. Whatever it is, once I had that thought, I was like, ‘Well, that’s your answer,’” said the star, who has won four Emmy awards for playing Sheldon.
“There was no factor; there was no situation that I was like, ‘Well, I’ve had enough of that.’ It was just…when you know, you know.”
