Emma Corrin Opens Up About Facing Backlash After Coming Out as Queer: Understanding the Fear Behind the Vitriol
In April 2021, Emma Corrin bravely shared her truth by coming out as queer, but faced a wave of 'vitriol' and negativity from online critics. This candid revelation sheds light on the underlying fear that fuels such backlash in today's society.
'The Crown' Alum Emma Corrin Experienced 'Vitriol' After Coming Out as Queer: 'I Think It's Fear'
Emma Corrin Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for IMDb
Emma Corrin, known for their role in The Crown, openly identifies as queer and is puzzled by the negative reactions to their coming out. In a recent interview with Harper's Bazaar, the 28-year-old, who prefers they/them pronouns and identifies as nonbinary, shared their thoughts on the unexpected backlash. Corrin expressed disappointment in the amount of "vitriol" they have received, highlighting a perceived regression in societal acceptance despite advancements in LGBTQ+ rights.
The actor revealed their membership in the LBGTQ+ community in April 2021 by posting a selfie on Instagram with the caption "Ur fave queer bride." Three months later, they updated their pronouns on the same platform and shared pictures of themselves wearing a chest binder.
Initially, Corrin did not expect their announcement to cause any controversy. However, they were taken aback by the negative and hurtful comments they received on Instagram.
"People follow me because they've seen me in something. They have an idea of who I am based on that. But when they see the real me, they might be surprised," Corrin shared in an interview. "I don't get why it's a big deal. Who gets hurt when you're just being yourself? I believe it's all about fear."
Despite the attention and speculation, Corrin chooses not to read the online comments about their personal life or professional journey.
'The Crown' Alum Emma Corrin Experienced 'Vitriol' After Coming Out as Queer: 'I Think It's Fear'
Emma Corrin Karwai Tang/WireImage
"I've been practicing avoiding it really well. But I have to admit, I still read stuff sometimes," they shared. "There are moments when I read something and feel like giving up. It makes me doubt myself. But I always learn from it."
Even though Corrin is learning to ignore negative comments, they appreciate the love and support from fans regarding their identity, coming out story, and pronoun selection.
Corrin recalled a memorable encounter with an older man who approached her after her performance in Orlando. The man shared that his grandchild had recently come out as trans, and he was seeking to understand and support them. Witnessing the performance in Orlando had a profound impact on him, shifting his perspective in a positive way. He expressed his gratitude towards Corrin for the experience, describing it as both wild and beautiful.
In the 2022 West End adaptation of Virginia Woolf's novel Orlando, Corrin portrayed the main character. The story is set in the court of Queen Elizabeth I and follows the journey of a young nobleman named Orlando as he navigates his identity before and after transitioning into a woman. The production had a limited run in London and featured a talented cast including Deborah Findlay, Jessica Lead, Debra Baker, Akuc Bol, Lucy Briers, Richard Cant, and more. The stage show was directed by Michael Grandage, who also worked with Corrin on the film My Policeman.
In a recent interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Grandage, 62, shared his thoughts on a rare occurrence in the theater world. He expressed how sometimes a performance can feel like new boundaries are being pushed. Audiences often discuss the magical connection that occurs on stage, and for 12 weeks in the West End, Grandage believes that this special moment was experienced by theatergoers.
Editor's P/S:
Emma Corrin's experience highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, despite societal progress. The vitriol and backlash they have encountered demonstrate that prejudices and intolerance persist. Corrin's decision to share their identity and experience is a courageous act that brings attention to the need for greater understanding and acceptance.
The positive responses Corrin has received from fans and the impact of their performance in "Orlando" serve as reminders of the transformative power of representation. The theater, in particular, can play a vital role in fostering empathy and challenging societal norms. By giving voice to diverse perspectives and experiences, art can create a space for dialogue, understanding, and change.
