In a recent interview, veteran actor Billy Dee Williams, best known for his iconic characters in “Lady Sings the Blues,” “Mahogany,” and the “Star Wars” franchise, candidly addressed rumors surrounding his personal life. The 86-year-old OG revealed surprising details about his experiences and the LGBTQIA+ community in his memoir, “What Have We Here?,” lifting the veil on a lesser-known chapter of his life.
Williams, who has spent nearly eight decades in the entertainment game, shared that he never saw anything unusual or controversial about being associated with the LGBTQIA+ community. In fact, he revealed that he used to attend secret gay parties in the Metropolitan Opera’s basement, and considered it a normal part of his life. “It all seemed very normal to me. I was around it all of my life, so I never really gave it much thought,” Williams stated.
Despite facing speculations and derogatory remarks, Williams remained unbothered and resilient. Refusing to be defined by societal labels, he proudly asserted that he identifies primarily as a man, debuting his book with the affirmation that he is “not gay.” Billy Dee has always seen himself as a charismatic and multifaceted brotha, unbound by strict gender definitions. “I think of myself as a relatively colorful character who doesn’t take himself or herself too seriously,” Williams jokingly expressed in an interview with Esquire.
While some misconstrued his words as some type of official ‘coming out’ statement, Williams later clarified that he was referring to people, regardless of gender, embracing their softer and more emotional sides. His intent was to encourage others to explore their whole selves, inspired by the concept of the “Anima animus” coined by psychologist, Carl G. Jung. Williams emphasized that his comments were not about sexuality but about understanding and incorporating both masculine and feminine qualities within oneself:
“[Carl Jung] coined a phrase that’s, ‘Anima animus.’ And anima means that is the female counterpart of the male self, and the animus is the male counterpart of the female,” said Billy Dee. “So, that’s what I was referring to. I was talking about men getting in touch with the female side of themselves. I wasn’t talking about s-x, I wasn’t talking about being gay or straight. People should read [Jung]. I mean, it would be an interesting education for a lot of people.”
The LGBTQ advocacy group Human Rights Campaign commended Williams for embracing his truth as a gender-fluid individual. However, the actor clarified that he sees himself as a man who advocates for self-expression and a deeper understanding of one’s own identity.
Billy Dee Williams continues to inspire audiences with his talent and genuine personality, both on and off the screen. Despite the misconception and gossip surrounding his personal life, he remains an icon of the “Star Wars” franchise and a symbol of strength and authenticity. Through his memoir, Williams provides a valuable insight into a side of his life that many were unaware of, challenging stereotypes and encouraging others to embrace their unique selves.
As fans eagerly await Williams’ upcoming projects, his courage and willingness to candidly address these rumors serve as a reminder of the power of personal authenticity in creating a stronger, more inclusive society.
