Culture

Sir Ian McKellen welcomes JoJo Siwa to the LGBT+ community with heartfelt message of support

Jan 29 2021
Written by Emma Powys Maurice

Sir Ian McKellen kept it classy with a message of support for JoJo Siwa (John Phillips/Getty)

Sir Ian McKellen warmly welcomed YouTuber JoJo Siwa to the LGBT+ community with a heartfelt message of support on Twitter.

Seventeen-year-old Dance Moms star Siwa publicly came out on 22 January, sharing a photo of herself in a t-shirt that read: “Best. Gay. Cousin. Ever.”

Her low-key announcement prompted an onslaught of media attention which saw the young star’s home being stormed by police after an alleged “swatting” by paparazzi, who lay in wait outside.

She’s also had to deal with a number of angry parents who believe she’s no longer fit to be a children’s entertainer, and lack the shame to keep their homophobia to themselves.

JoJo Siwa has remained upbeat despite all the drama, thanks in large part to the outpouring of support from her many young followers – but there was one older fan who wanted to share the love too.

Being experienced in matters of the press and the heart, Sir Ian, 81, addressed her directly on Twitter.

“I hope JoJo Siwa puts aside any negative reaction to her coming-out, at a time when she deserves praise and empathy for taking control of her life in such a public way,” he wrote.

I hope @itsjojosiwa puts aside any negative reaction to her coming-out, at a time when she deserves praise and empathy for taking control of her life in such a public way. https://t.co/dIVhuEpG4l

— Ian McKellen (@IanMcKellen) January 28, 2021

Several fans praised McKellen’s sweet message to Siwa, commenting: “Us older LGBT+ have to support the younger ones as they come out.”

“It’s brave to speak one’s truth, and to do so in this way, at this age, is incredible. JoJo deserves all the praise!” said one. “Thank you, Sir Ian, for publicly being by her side.”

“Legends supporting legends,” another added. “This tweet is so beautiful, it represents so much. Thank you Sir Ian.”

Others, however, were mostly just thrilled that Sir Ian McKellen actually knows who JoJo Siwa is.