Having worked as an openly LGBTQ actor for more than a decade, Ben Whishaw is no stranger to the heteronormative pressure that comes with Hollywood.
The Golden Globe winner recently explained why there are “not very many” out gay actors at his level, noting that he understands the need to separate his private from his professional life, given many in the industry’s outdated standards.
“It’s complicated and probably different for every individual, but I think it’s still something to do with the fact that if you want to be really successful, you have to conform to what is deemed to be heterosexual taste, or something,” he told The Guardian.
“Or be sexy in a heterosexual way. I’m always amazed by how much sex is underneath everything, actually. Or desire. There’s still a lot of homophobia and hatred. I mean, it’s better, but it’s still true,” Whishaw continued. “Also, who knows what journey people are on with these things? I don’t blame people for being private.”
Whishaw, who publicly acknowledged his sexuality for the first time in 2014, reunites with Passages co-writer/director Ira Sachs on his new film Peter Hujar’s Day. He explained the significance of playing the gay photographer in a film from a gay director.
“It definitely feels different if you’re making a project that’s about gayness or queerness. And there are lots of beautiful gay directors – but not that many. I think it’s hard for them to make films,” explained Whishaw. “So it’s precious when you get to be involved with one.”