Actress Jessica Gunning Reflects on Coming Out as Gay: A Liberating Journey

Jessica Gunning Recalls Coming out as Gay

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Baby Reindeer star Jessica Gunning recently shared a “liberating” moment from two years ago when she came out as gay. During a podcast episode on Tuesday, June 4, Gunning, 38, reflected on the significance of her coming out experience in November 2022. She expressed that being surrounded by gay friends made it easier for her, but she still struggled to fully articulate her feelings.

She continued, "I came to the realization that I am gay, and everything just clicked. I had been confused for so long, thinking my size had something to do with it, feeling like I didn't quite fit in. But once I understood, it all made sense. It was a truly freeing moment."

Gunning, known for her role as Martha in the popular Netflix series, then compared her own experience with homosexuality to her character.

"Baby Reindeer has this really touching moment where Donny [Richard Gadd] shares about sleeping at his parents' house for the first time. I mentioned this to my family during Christmas in 2022, and that night, I ended up sleeping for a whole 10 hours," she shared.

Jessica Gunning Recalls Coming out as Gay

Jessica Gunning in “Baby Reindeer” Netflix

Gunning called being gay “a little secret” that she’s “been keeping from myself, even.”

She explained that she didn't hate anyone, but rather she was surprised by her own reaction. She didn't think any reaction from others would be negative. She just never thought it was possible for her to feel that way.

The actress shared that she used to watch The L Word, which she now realizes was a clear sign. Even when she participated in Pride events, she would find herself crying all the time because she was so moved emotionally. Looking back, she should have recognized the significance of those moments.

"I did a play with Cate Blanchett where I got to kiss her every night onstage. Should have known then," she said with a laugh. "All these signs from the universe! It took me 36 years, but I did it."

Gunning mentioned that she feels "really peaceful" after coming out. She added, "Naively, I always used to think it would be just weirdly a sexual thing. Like if you’re telling people, it’s like you are saying, ‘I like boobs,’ but it’s not that at all. You are going, ‘This is who I am.’ And it’s actually really emotional."

Editor's P/S:

Jessica Gunning's experience of coming out as gay is both relatable and inspiring. Her journey of self-discovery and acceptance is a reminder that it's never too late to embrace one's true identity. Gunning's honesty about the challenges she faced, such as internalized homophobia and societal expectations, sheds light on the complexities of the coming-out process.

Gunning's comparison of her own experience to her character in "Baby Reindeer" highlights the universal nature of self-acceptance. Her realization that it's okay to be different and to love who you love is a message of hope for anyone struggling with their own identity. Gunning's story is a reminder that coming out can be a liberating and empowering experience, leading to a sense of peace and authenticity.