Luke Evans: Growing Up Gay As A Jehovah's Witness

[@exJW-TTTR]

As an exJW who only got out 3 years ago at age 37. I am bawling watching this. When I told my parents that I didn't believe in the religion anymore, the 1st question put of my mom was, "You're not gay are you?" A question and fear that she held and hid for 30 years. I spent that whole span of time confused about my sexuality, silently never dealing with it or exploring it. I have now, and I know who I am now. But I am one that did lose those that should have been closest to me. They haven't spoken to me in 3 years now. They haven't seen their grandchildren in 3 years. I am so proud of Luke Evans for the way he has spoken out about growing up in the JW religion. I couldn't stop crying watching this. I am happy that he has managed to have a relationship with his parents after leaving, that his parents have braved the consequences of that and have kept in contact. But Luke doesn't gloss over the fact that he was prepared to lose them completely, as that is what should have happened, and he is not disillusioned to the struggles that many other exJWs face. This is an amazing interview. And I hope it spreads and blows up.

[@lawrencemullins-mq7du]

I so love the interview. I too lost my parents, in some ways I don't think I ever had them. Hard to love people who are ashamed of you. They are long gone now, but I, like Luke had to find my own way and my own people. I lost so many people during the pandemic, but the hardest of course were my close friends, who were my family.

[@ivorputnam5958]

Ive just read your comment about this video. I had a very similar experience to you. I went to therapy and cried about it for a long time. Im now at a point where I dont miss my family and dont want to be associated with them. The anger has gone. I shunned them because of their prejudice. It maybe that you would like your mum to be in touch, but you know what the belief is. I would advise you to concentrate on your own life and make everyday count with your family. They are your family and they need you. I hope this dosent sound like im telling you what to do. It just makes me sad when parents of that cult shun their kids. I hope you and your family have a good time together. XX

[@jtarantula3390]

I wonder if that’s why my dad’s side of the family doesn’t speak to me. They DID out me and say: we all know you’re gay. Now I get it, they’re all JW, I grew up as a JW, until my parents divorced. I also stopped going because I felt like a hypocrite going to meetings while being gay. The contradiction, the inner turmoil, the angst I felt against myself. I can’t imagine living a life where you don’t touch anyone or have anyone touch you(affectionately), imagine living without receiving love or care or attention. My brain cannot comprehend how one is expected to go on in life without love, I can’t wrap my head around that.

[@jillybean3478]

I grew up as a JW. My best friend growing up had a gay older brother that her parents never talked to or had anything to do with him. We both hated it and would go visit him a lot when we were teenagers. I’m so so sorry that you lost your loved ones over being gay 😢.

[@sandyn3384]

I despise religion. Will never go back. Glad you got out.

[@paradisefound3536]

The first openly gay action hero, and now the first famous ex JW to speak openly about his experience. Luke's a born trailblazer. As a fellow queer ex JW this convervastion meant the world to me. On behalf of myself and the untold thousands who have shared or are currently living through this experience - Thank you. This conversation will save lives

[@jrojala]

He’s by no means the first “famous” exjw to speak openly, lmao

[@silverpod]

@jrojala He's actually the first famous one I've hear of speaking publically. Who are some others? (I grew up queer & am exJW so sincerely asking and interested.)

[@davidmurphy4725]

I started crying my eyes out watching him break down reading his own book. LE is an incredible human being.

[@dpeon242]

As a gay man who was adopted into a Jehovah Witness family, I was waiting for Luke to speak about his experience. Not that he owes anyone a thing, but his story will help so many stuck in that religion feeling hopeless, alone, and suicidal. Had many of us (including myself) had the internet and social media and forums like this, it would have helped tremendously just to know we were not alone. I dread to think of those who took their own lives. Religion can be a great comfort but it can also be poisonous and hateful and create such internal suffering and generational trauma.

[@juliekenny9169]

As a mother this is killing me. I never want either of my children to ever think for one moment they can't be who they are with me. I love my kids as they are with no caveats. They are absolutely perfect as they are.

[@kkjsmom]

I totally agree! My adult kids have all made choices I wouldn't have made, but I've always told them no matter what I'm their Mom & they'll always have a home with me!

[@hair.goblinnn]

Thank you for being such a good parent. That's all kids want.

[@kalelkent1957]

I grew up jw too. And I’m gay. Walked away and never looked back Sooooo happy now. Happily married and my heart is full.

[@Strwrsgrl01]

Thanks for sharing. So many people need to know that there is happiness to be had for following your heart.

[@silverpod]

I am gay and grew up Jw. I honestly think their ingrained teaching that being gay is wrong has hampered my ability to make lasting gay relationships and I'm really upset about it. I let them eat a huge part of my life and that trauma is still with me today.

[@kalelkent1957]

@ how long did you stay before you left ?

[@letsgomodding265]

Thank you so much for this interview. Luke's experience hit so close to home for me. I knew I was attracted to boys by 8. I was 4th generation JW on both sides of the family. We lived in a little town with a very small congregation. I am the oldest of three boys. My mom had me when she just turned 17. She married my dad at 15 to get away from an abusive father. (yeah, it happens even in the JW religion) She groomed me from the time I was born to be an elder. I was giving talks from the podium before I even started school. She put this heavy responsibility on me that since my dad was the head elder in the congregation and she was a regular pioneer, I had to set an example for the rest of the children. It didn't help that I put my mom on a pedestal and thought she could do no wrong (co-dependency on my part). Because of her influence on me, I never considered any other option like Luke did. My attraction to men was a flaw that I just had to pray more and immerse myself more in the religion. It is also pounded into you if they suspect you are gay that if you leave the religion and go out into the world, not only will you loose everyone, you will also be miserable the rest of your life. I got married at 20 and quickly had two beautiful children. Even being married didn't help like I thought it would. I steadily went downhill emotionally and spiritually until at 35 I had a nervous breakdown and spent 3 weeks in a mental hospital. There I was told I would have to decide to either except my authentic self, or if not, I would continue down a road of self destruction. Interestingly, when I was discussing why I had the nervous breakdown with my father, he confided in me that he had the same feelings for men that I did. That blew me away. He had always been a very sad and lonely acting man (even though we were always a family and he never left my mother) and that helped me decided that I didn't want to turn out like him. Sadly, I didn't pursue that topic further with him and he died suddenly shortly after I left the religion. I wasn't allowed to come to the funeral (per my mother). Six months after my dad died I stopped by to check on my mom and all she had to say to me was her dad would take care of her if she needed anything and "I wish you were just dead because it would be so much easier for me if you were just dead!" Wow, I didn't know what to say to that. For a religion to create such anger in a mother towards her first born son, especially when we had always been so close, really drove home the fact that I had made the right decision in leaving it. We have only spoken twice in the 26 years since. And as far as my being miserable in my life in the "world". I found the love of my life 6 months after I left my first life behind and we have been together 30 years this month. I have never been happier.

[@robertneumann584]

Gosh, I am horrified at your experience. The memories remain raw when you ruminate on them, as if you could change them. We can only change our attitude. My story is awful too, getting df'd from Bethel and all that came of it. I have to remind myself "so what!" Look at me now! Bless you for sharing your story!

[@kalelkent1957]

@@letsgomodding265 I’d love to chat sometime.

[@silverpod]

Being gay and growing up JW, I somehow let them steal my joy and sense of identity. Here I am 35 years later and still unable to connect with my own community because of it. I need to read Luke's book and see if there's a community of gay exJW. This video brought up some very traumatic memories for me. I was even physically abused by my stepfather, a JW, because I was gay and he hated me for it.

[@Meena-io2us]

I'm ex JW. Unless you have been one you cannot imagine how courageous Luke was to come out to his JW Mom. When he said a Gay Man/Woman is on par with a murderer, he is so right. In fact it's probably worse in their eyes. A brave man who will inspire many. Love from Ireland

[@revbenf6870]

Murderers can be forgiven...

[@onllwyn]

You're so right. I grew up a JW as well.

[@aurevoiralex]

What an incredibly moving testimony... I am a cis-het 51 year old woman, and I have *never* understood what homophobia was about. As Luke points out, a person's sexual orientation is only a part of who they are among many other, and is a personal matter, so it really shouldn't cause so much pain and strife. As Christopher Hitchens once said so brilliantly, homosexuality isn't just a form of sexuality, it's also a form of love. Period. No explanations needed. Since my teenage years, I've surrounded myself with gay men with whom I have built lasting friendships based on honesty and trust. They get me, I get them! Thank you Luke for sharing your experiences with us.

[@jtarantula3390]

Thank you for being an ally, you don’t know how much that means to some of us. It’s so hard out there.

[@TheMattJacks]

Cis-Het? We aren't the ones who need identity sirens.

[@TheMattJacks]

Your life isn't less valuable for being straight, and you don't need to caveat your thoughts. You did nothing wrong. Report this too. I'm a human. Other than that, who cares?

[@TheMattJacks]

By the way, I love Luke, have 0 issue with LGBT. It's the straight people acting guilty for being them.

[@brianelliott577]

What a beautiful and strong man. I have never seen such an honest interview with ANYONE !

[@alanlunceford1446]

Intelligent. Thoughtful. Emotional. Insightful. Uplifting. Loving. As a former Mormon, I relate to a lot of this. I didn’t know anything about Luke Evans before this. I wish he were one of my friends!! Thank you , Luke, for being who you are.

[@lawrencemullins-mq7du]

Dear Luke. I so loved this interview. Our coming out stories are so similar. I grew up in Fundametalist Christian family. So our experiences are so much alike. I have to read your book now. Your first experience of going into a gay community, and seeing in feeling that since of community two men walking down the street holding hands. I had my vision of sitting in a Bar in San Francisco, and having that same experience, and saying to a new friend, "Ever had a dream come true" But it only lasted a few yrs. before AIDS hit. And I lost my surrogate family. I was a nurse, so for a decade late 70's and 80's it was my personel life, my work life. It was like a holacaust. I'm so glad things have worked out better for you. I love you so much. I'm old now. I don't know if you ever recover from that much grief. But it makes me happy to know you survived and thrived. All my love, you beautiful man.

[@ThomasWalerius]

God bless you for the work you did during the AIDS crisis. That was a horrific pandemic and a true holocaust. Watching young vibrant, handsome men turn into old man in six months. You are a hero to the gay community.😍 3:20

[@MaryCardell-wq2jr]

God doesn't hate you Luke. He loves you an He wants you to live of life in which you can come to live with Him. I can't stand for people to say God hates anyone. He only hates Satan an how Satan hates people and wants people to come to hell because he hates. God loves.❤

[@MaryCardell-wq2jr]

I'm so sorry that people say God hates gay people. He doesn't dear Luke He loves you dearly just as your mom does. He knows what you go through as a gay person and he doesn't want that for you.

[@ThomasWalerius]

Wow Mary, what a beautiful, kind, and absolutely Christlike comment.

[@HawthorneHillNaturePreserve]

The funniest thing is when people call being gay a lifestyle choice 😂

[@adrianoyorkshire]

Luke Evans is an amazing talented actor. I can relate. Being a former J. W's myself. I left and miss my friends, whom some of them I know sill struggle with their sexuality. Congrats Mr Evans and thanks for sharing.

[@Yanay30]

That was a powerful interview. So open, authentic and vulnerable. I couldn't hold back the tears when Luke broke down reading about his mom. 😭😭

[@AdamJMusic23]

This interveiw was everthing we needed it to be... ' sometimes Friends are the Family we choose'...Thank-U 4 this ❤😊😢🎉

[@albertluiz4223]

Thank you for sharing what most of us EXJWs went through to be who we are now. I left in 1993 to explore what I was feeling and have an almost 30 year relationship with my partner/husband and a daughter to show that happiness is just outside of Fear. Baseless fear at that

[@Belinha264]

Kisses tô you and your family from Brazil ❤

[@shakiragoofygal]

And you're playing sacha life and roblox at your grown age? You know what, it's none of my business. You do you, boo! Abby Mallard from chicken little.

[@Saturnia2014]

​@@shakiragoofygalYou sound like a judgemental elder from the church

[@randomlibra]

I am a gay, ex JW. I got myself kicked out of the church when I was 18. The entire childhood was torture because of them. I couldn't stand it anymore, so I setup an encounter in the park, and an Elder was to be walking by, and he just happened to see me kissing a guy (my friend, thank you for helping me out). They called me into a meeting and I told them I was done being who they PRETEND to be and disfellowship me as I wanted no part of their FAKE fellowship. One of the Elders was beating his wife and children and all the others knew it and did NOTHING about it, so I told THAT Elder we all knew and maybe he should be disfellowshipped as well. It didn't end well, but I never looked back. Those people are a cult and abusive to children and anyone who doesn't fit their mold. This is what RELIGION does to LGBT kids. It's abuse. PERIOD.

[@peteraschaffenburg1]

"Those people are a cult and abusive to children and anyone who doesn't fit their mold. " Isn´t that true for almost any religion? I happen to live in a particularly catholic part of Germany. The indoctrination from Kindergarden (age 4) is off the charts.

[@michaeleric76]

I am 49 and this really brought back memories for me. I was a regular pioneer at age 10 with my mother who had me home schooled. I was disfellowshiped in 1998 after having an affair with another Jehovah's Witness brother, and lost my family and friends. I really appreciate this interview, it seemed accurate, balanced, and heartfelt.

[@silverpod]

I hate that they ostracize people, esp. young gay people who don't have other social outlets (at least I didn't back in the 80s and 90s) when my parents forced me to be a jw. It makes me angry just thinking about it.

[@JustinSimpson]

This was a beautiful interview with Luke, being that vulnerable is not easy. Thank you so much for the video.

[@annikapea4781]

Ex jw also born in 1979, this interview hit hard. I knew Luke was an exjw and knew his parents were still in contact which is rare. This was an amazingly raw sharing of his experience. I hope it gives other gay JWs hope. With love and thanks. ❤

[@christineroux681]

I cannot put into words how much I admire Luke Evans for his strength to persevere and leave the religion. When you are born into a religion, you are expected to follow. My great-grandfather was head of the congregation when I was a young child, so it was deeply ingrained in my family. They use the fear of losing (not being able to talk to) our family and friends as a means of control. I left the religion 12 years ago, I’m not gay, however, I was going through a horrible divorce. I was the wife of an elder and unfortunately I was in a bad situation but knew I had to divorce to protect myself and my kids. Many told me I shouldn’t divorce, I lost many friends and family members who to this very day do not talk to me. I listened to Lukes audio book in less than 24 hours. I couldn’t stop listening to his voice and his experiences. I laughed, I cried, I even found myself verbally cheering him on while my headphones were on. When you go through life you truly learn who your “family” is. I was a single mom for 7 years and it was not easy, but, I’m a stronger person for it. I have 2 amazing kids, my daughter is a music teacher who now has her masters degree and my son who is joining the military. I’m so proud of them and their accomplishments. The one thing that I do love about his experience is that he truly loves his parents and he expresses that, proving there are good people in the religion with good hearts, they love their child and that is the way it should be no matter what religion you are. 💕

[@zony4488]

So touching, moving and impressive interview! 👏😭 Thank you so much for sharing❤️🙏🥰

[@valkeakirahvi]

Thank you for sharing. I'm bi and trans, and while I was never a JW, my closest childhood friend was and is. I saw a lot of awful things so close I have personal trauma about it. This is so moving but also healing thing to listen ❤

[@Smashingblouse]

I didn’t know this man is gay as I don’t know much about him apart from Gaston. I was born into the JW’s as well and I stopped attending meetings when I was 15 because all of my sisters and mother had left the religion and the home. Only my dad, nearly 80, continues to remain in the faith. I’ve no idea what sort of person I would have been if we weren’t Jehovah’s Witnesses but the pain from my family breaking apart still haunts me to this day. I really hope no one is being persecuted for being who they are. Sending hope to all 🫶🏻🇬🇧.

[@mary_syl]

I've always loved Luke Evans, great actor. My heart goes out to him, hearing his struggles as a child made me really emotional; I was bullied in school albeit not for the same reason. It's so isolating and sad. So happy for him that his parents came through for him and he gets to live this full life which he very much deserves ❤😊

[@c_kiriazev]

FANTASTIC INTERVIEW! LOVE LOVE LOVE

[@the_hermits_cave]

An incredibly honest, raw, and deeply emotional account of Luke’s life experience. It truly moved me to tears.

[@LouieMdeP]

Thank you for the stories that really matter to us. I used to write for Gay Star and am happy to see it transformed onto the KZbin platform! :)

[@haraldripkenful]

Oh Luke, you are such a beautiful person. Thank you for sharing your coming out story and your emotions! I work as a openly gay teacher at a school in Amsterdam and I see even nowadays how kids struggle with their fears to be their true selves.

[@francomatiasledesma8307]

One of the most heart-touching interviews I have ever watched. Someday, your parents will understand. ¡Te abrazo fuerte! Regards from Argentina!!

[@MikeEllis-ly8jg]

This man is a class act. Usually ex JWs (like myself) tend to hammer down the JW community, which of course is natural due to the horrible experiences they might have been through. But he shows compassion. The truth is that the actual average members are just misled people who genuinely believe that their unfaithful relatives are going to be destroyed in the Armageddon. And even though they are unquestionably wrong, they do it from love. I saw parents really devastated by thinking that for their children… Fortunately some parents accept to take the consequences in order to stay in touch with their disfellowed family members…My 85 old mother feels the same way and i tend to treat her with kindness instead of trying to convince her that all her life was a mistake, just because i was able to get out of it…

[@Christy-s3p]

How did you get out because I am gay lesbian and I am still being hounded by them.

[@Cre8DHDivity]

Wow... I havent gotten very far into this but it is pulling up feelings for me. I was born into JW and when i was reallly starting to differentiate who i was as a young teen, i remember asking my mom if she would love me the same if i was a lesbian. I still remember her eyes turning both flinty and sad as she told me she would not love me the same. It was such a dart to my heart. I am not a lesbian and never have been, it was a test of my mother's love as colored by the religion and it is part of what made me start removing myself from the religion. If they say god is love, but my mother would only love me based on reproductive value, then i was not loved by mother or god without restriction and it broke my heart that i was expected to love in ways i was not loved. Crazy.

[@davidadams2395]

It's true. One's family, especially one's parents, should love each other unconditionally, as should the recipient of one's faith.

[@jungersrules]

I didn't know he grew up as JW! I did too. I stopped going in my early 30s. I think of my introverted temperament I really wasn't very invested, nor did I ever feel like I was part of the organization. I've always felt like an outsider, but love being alone so it wasn't a trauma for me to stay/leave. I think it was different for my brother. He took it to heart and tried the best he could to meet the standards.

[@guardianofthemoon]

As one of Jehovah's Witnesses (former) the one thing I have always said is that this is MY belief but its not for me to force that belief on my children or family. I raised my children as witnesses but when I had one or two or even three tell me this wasn't for them, my first thought was not get behind me Satan, it was what can I do to help you be happy and whole? I want my kids to be happy, that is all I ever wanted. I have loved Luke as an actor, now I see him as a man. Big hugs to you sir. You are beautiful, amazing, and I thank you for this perspective.

[@StevenRenk]

Such deep-seated, raw feelings re-emerge on watching this soul baring interview. The journey that LGBTQ+er's go through when brought up in a JW family is excruciating. It leaves deep scars and great sadness for those that survive 'running' this particular 'gauntlet'. Luke is very brave to document this, using his celebrity to highlight it. After 37 years I'm still bitter about the unnecessarily cruel nature of the JW governing body's "shunning" policy, despite more recent 'new thinking' on this matter. Luke's emotional response when reading excerpts from his book underlines how profoundly he has been affected by his religious upbringing and how it has influenced him in questioning that God even exists. The tragedy of religions like the JW's is that it is a religion of exclusion. The more isolated they become the less human they are and their members quietly slip into extremism, without as much as a vague realisation.

[@barbadosart7059]

Amazing and really touching story! As someone who grow up in the SDA church I can totally relate to that. We should see the rest of the conversation.

[@GrotrianSeiler]

This is a terrific interview. We all suffer to some extent as children. What we do with that turns us into who we are. Luke sharing his story and his experiences has the potential to help so many people. Much respect. Life goes on but the scars remain.

[@lyndajolacava4891]

When you just read that part of your book, well I have so much respect and love for you. Tears are healing and you are living your authentic life.

[@alejandromartin8127]

this is very touching, I also grew as a JW knowing that I was gay. I got baptized when I was 17 and left when I was 20. It was hard at first, when you lose almost everything, but I was lucky because I was never really shunned by my family. it's been almost 30 years since then and though I have not returned to the organization (it's just not possible) I do have returned to the faith and I know Jehovah God not just doesn,t hate me but He is not far from me, He has always been there

[@Earwithfoot]

The light gets brighter. Jehovah is with you and your family. We as a the human family can get through this together and I hope to meet you on the other side of this shitty, shitty system. ❤

[@alobo9937]

"The world doesn't accomadate you"...I felt that.

[@yummyirl]

This was such a poignant interview. Thank you. As an ex jw myself I thought 33:16 was so relatable for *any*one who has to extricate themselves from a cult. It can really push you to an extreme place where you feel you are almost literally (and sometimes actually literally, suicide is a real danger to many in this situation) fighting for your life. I'm so so glad the gay commmunity is there for gay cult survivors. Although I am not gay myself a childhood friend of mine left because he is and it was so beautiful to see him blossom into joyful expression at last supported by his own people. Keep being amazing and courageous and so so loving, all of you. ❤

[@maevequill]

Lovely Luke, what a brave interview - I'm so glad his mam gave him that hug.

[@christina-olivia5655]

Thank you for this Luke and Jack ❤

[@jeffwatkins352]

Mr. Evans is so direct and honest, and his reading of his mother’s acceptance brought me to tears as it did him. But not because it parallels my own mother’s reaction. Ours was a very cool analytical relationship. I was rather cruel, telling her if she couldn’t accept me, we couldn’t know one another. She said she supported me, so not to worry. Then she hesitated. I asked her why. She said, “I’m just worried it’ll be difficult for you. It's hard enough for a man and a woman to get along. But two men, both who have to have everything their way…”

[@AdrianaRamirez-pr5mc]

I want to give Luke a big warm hug. Love your work, sir!

[@italoblu]

Great interview!

[@GilbertMartinezHarpsichord]

Generationally, I find this incredibly relatable. I was skeptic at first, as I am with ALL celebs. But this guy isn't parroting or borrowing experience to help boost his career. I'm really impressed. Inspired. I thought I was too old for that. I'm only dumbfounded that I had never heard of Luke Evens before. I don't watch a lot of action films or television shows.

[@MiguelFernandez-xo8ns]

My best friend was a Jehovah witness and by the time I met him he was already in his seventies. His parents when they found out he was a homosexual had him excommunicated from the church and his family. They gave him $20 and kicked him out at the age of 15. He was homeless for a while struggled to try to win approval from his parents by repenting and going back to the fold. The leaders of the Kingdom Hall would watch him like a hawk constantly and every time he would come to talk to a male peer they would pounce on him and ask him what his motive was for speaking to him. As the years went by he married a woman had a child with her so that he could fit in. He even went on to Bethel in New York city as a missionary. He was a great historian of the Jehovah witness, their founding members and leaders.. He finally become so suicidal and so frustrated and hurt that he left again and this time never to return. Needless to say he never went back to his family, not even to their funerals. And he himself died pretty much alone in a nursing home. It's such a sad and tragic story. I feel so much your pain, I too came to faith as a Christian and always was told that I was going to hell if I acted on my feelings. That's the only way I would be accepted if I repented and lived a life worthy of God's calling on my life. Thank you for sharing your story and I cried right along with you. I can so relate to having those feelings and having no one to talk to. Love and admiration to you. I love your movies and admire you as a versatile actor, singer, performer. 💕💖💕🙌😭

[@alobo9937]

I love that you took the time to share your friends story. This creates honor for him, and others will be able to have empathy for him. He didn't die in vain because others will be moved by his life, which was put into words by you.

[@hunkhk]

I never anticipated that. Hats off to Luke for sharing such an incredibly intimate moment. Respect

[@mariedelaurentiis]

Loved this interview and definitely cried a couple of times lol Really enjoyed hearing a bit of your story Luke❤❤ and i just know you're such an inspiration for those out there still trying to find their way in navigating not only being queer but also being in a high control religion. Loved this!

[@Lord_Procrastinator]

Wow. What an amazing life story! As an ex-JW gay man myself, everything he said was so relatable to my own life experience and what I've gone through. I loved Luke's performance as Gaston and I really hope we can see him in more big movies.

[@donnieherrington7633]

I adore the hyper realness of this interview. They were not prepared for tears and neither was I. How did he manage to record the audiobook?

[@shaneencalade4988]

My story is almost the exact same. You can’t truly grasp the amount of emotions that you carry and at such a young age. Being raised in the JW community especially during those years and also being the only child and knowing your parents are all you have is unexplainable. Fortunately I was never baptized. My parents are dead now and I don’t think about it anymore but seeing this brought back memories and probably would be considered traumatic to most. I can laugh now and I guess time heals all wounds or at least stops the bleeding. This was a great interview and now I’m getting the book.

[@axelwalter4046]

What a brilliant, honest, emotional and beautiful interview. And how painful how all religions want to block us in our feelings and our true self, unless you free yourself of those religions and be YOU. As I saw once written on the wall of a restaurant in Istanbul (!): "Pray less, think more". To which I indeed add: "Be more yourself".

[@wilfang]

So much to learn from this interview. Luke is a hero not just on movies he is a super hero in real life because It takes real courage and honesty to be who we are meant to be. For those out there that are struggling with yourself, please believe me when I say IT really gets better once you accept yourself, just forget about everybody else out there, you are important and have so much value, start by loving yourself and embracing who you are, anyone that doesn't like you or agree with you it's their problem to figure it out not yours. Big hug to every one here. God is Love.♥♥♥

[@tomoneill2151]

What I would have given to hear the words of that Samaritan when I was a teenager. The kindness of it makes me cry.

[@darnellhenderson2170]

This was an excellent interview. I need to pick up the book.

[@rootytootymailbox2043]

Omg what a tearjerker. I’m bawling now too.

[@Soberdragonfly]

I will be buying his book to read it and to support him, but just wow, Thank the universe that the Samaritan who was on duty that night was the absolute right person to save Luke's life. ❤❤❤

[@annelizebuitendach7523]

Luke, a mother, carries her child for 9 months in her womb. My son is my everything. Like you, he is also an aries, born on 4 April. Like your Mam, I had to be stitched giving birth to him. The love of a mother is unconditional. You are an amazing person. Those bullies actually accomplished nothing. You were born to shine. The love you and your parents share keeps you grounded. May the years ahead be filled with more beautiful unexpected memories. 💜🪻💜

[@dlhodge7209]

What bullies?

[@annelizebuitendach7523]

@dlhodge7209 read the book, then you will know.

[@dlhodge7209]

@ thanks I won’t be doing that. Just thought I missed something in the interview.

[@dlhodge7209]

@ thanks I won’t be doing that. Just thought I missed something in the interview.

[@dlhodge7209]

@ thanks I won’t be doing that. Just thought I missed something in the interview.

[@susanah0202]

I am so happy for you, and thank you for sharing your journey with us... it means the world for many people in the same situation, for many young kids feeling pain, and the struggle of thinking about being hate by those you love. ( sorry about my english, not my first language ) 🙏🏽 Thank you ❤💐

[@rowanwhite3520]

Brilliant, such great interview!

[@qbawb1]

How lucky to have had the encounter with the ‘Good Samaritan.” I was 18 when I went to see a therapist at the college I was attending (freshman year). Homosexuality was still classified as a mental disorder at the time and the psychiatrist told me that if I “chose” to live as a homosexual, my life would be very difficult and that I would be ALONE for the rest of my life. This was in 1971. Turned out to be a “Self-fulfilling prophecy. “. About to turn 72 in 2 weeks and while I am alone and my life has been difficult I have finally found space for some “contentment.”.

[@maryjanekapteyn8964]

Thank you for your heart, your vulnerability and your courage. How brave you were as a young child and now as man who will guide, support and inspire others. Thank you for sharing your story & your gifts. You belong. You are loved. ❤

[@loisorr8294]

Crying with Luke about his mum 😭 theres nothing i wouldnt do my wee son ❤️ its the most special bond there is 💕

[@LincolnFerver]

What an amazing man. Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with all of us.

[@lawrencemullins-mq7du]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@phunkyfeelone4855]

Mr. Evans, you are an absolute treasure in your roles and outside of that. I have to admit you are my celebrity mancrush for so long. When I found out you were gay, I bawled because I, a straight woman, had my own grown fantasy about running away with you. I still love you, be it not romantic now, but I def. would consider you friendcrush if such a thing exists. Your bravery to share your thoughts and feelings in open honesty is a blessing for the world. Thank you 🩷 5:54

[@KarlJovanick2]

I can't help but react to your testimonies, which are so moving. Like you two, I'm gay. I too grew up in a small town where it was inconceivable to be gay. Although I'm 67, it seems to me that in some ways things were a little easier than for Luke. But like you two, religion had a huge impact on me, not only because I lived in a Catholic family and it was normal to go to church every Sunday, but also because “religion” (not churches) is part of my being. I realize how important it is to leave one's original environment when it's not in tune with who you are. For me, it was the change of school that enabled me to find myself in a big city. But I was still far from feeling okay with my sexual orientation, especially in 1978. A this time, I found myself recruited into the Moon sect. This experience of a few months further complicated things and therefore delayed my coming out. Like Luke with the Samaritans, in 1981 I met a support group led by a nun, which helped me enormously. I'd love to tell you more, but this isn't the place to do it. So I'll stop here. I'm looking forward to reading Luke's book, which I hope will be translated into French. I send you both all my affection.

[@romeodude89]

Ex-Jw and gay guy from Wales and every single part of this story even down to the details rings true ❤

[@lokiji108]

Raw, beautiful, and 2 great survivors chatting

[@davidmarcus7033]

As i am watching this i am extremely proud of him.I just hope many of the gays or people that is still in the closed could learn from this . I would love to obtain his book it will be a motivation to others . I love been gay and proud to be gay .

[@MrElstef]

I'm gay Ex JW too. Thrown out in 1999 when I was 24. With Luke telling his story, he's telling the story of so many Gay Ex Jw's. Like me. And I'm very greatful for this. It feels like finally getting some recognition for what I and so many others Gay JW's went through.

[@CecileTellier]

Love to Luke and I hope he finds all of his happiness.

[@pawdaw]

Last week I lost a dear friend to cancer. He was gay, and brought up in a fundamentalist Christian family. When he came out to them as a teenager, he was immediately rejected and disowned. He moved cities to get away from them and created a life for himself. Through the years, he had intermittent contact with the family and their message was always the same: we don't accept you or your lifestyle. He never spoke much of the family. But as he lay dying, all the rage and bitterness came to the surface; he was determined that they not be told nor involved in any commemoration. Parental rejection is always awful, but even more so when motivated by religion. Whether it's fear of rejection, or outright rejection, the child always remembers, and sometimes doesn't recover from it.

[@TheRealHermioneW]

That’s so sad and tragic. I’m so sorry for your loss and I’m so sorry that your friend’s family didn’t make the effort to reconcile with him before the end. May he rest in peace.

[@pawdaw]

@@TheRealHermioneW thank you so much, your kind words are very much appreciated. He asked that I speak at the memorial, and I am honored to do so.

[@missunknown5572]

I feel very grateful that he shared his story he obviously been through many challenges in life I hope he is doing well in life 💐

[@biankajacobs1663]

Thank you Luke Evans!! You re so wonderful actor/human being.❤ Terrific interview.

[@Goddess73]

Thank you for sharing, Luke. Speaking of pillars . . . YOU my dear are a pillar of strength! I think my mother understands, but not really. I could never tell my father. I live far from them, 3000 miles away to be exact. My adopted families are everything. Thank you, again. Cheers!🥂❤

[@jillybean3478]

I grew up as a JW and he explains being a JW just like I do to people who don’t know anything about the reglion . I’ve loved a bunch of movies he’s been in. And have so much respect for him ❤❤.

[@M_J_nan]

Amazing interview! Lovely man any parent, friend, lover, employer should be proud to have in their life ❤

[@The_Leftysaurus]

Wonderful interview ♥♥♥

[@m.e.c.5837]

This deserves more likes and more views!!! LOVED THIS!!

[@koalalena]

I was cutting onions when he read from the book. Not an ideal combination. So brave, open, vulnerable. Having a role model like Luke share his story will hopefully be so helpful for many kids out there. ❤

[@pedroantoniodeveraecheniqu6156]

The reading of the moment with his mother made me cry.

[@Capyhandler]

Did not expect to be in tears watching KZbin this morning

[@princessaKLG]

Thank you for this very frank and empowering interview. Kudos to his parents for not giving up on their son. That definitely is not the norm in that organization.

[@RobertDani]

He seems like a wonderful sensitive person. I wish to find someone similar, not afraid to show emotions. 😅

[@JM-jk4cs]

Thank you!! Great interview. I am also exjw and part of the lgbtq+ community, Thank you for talking about your experience so others who are inside the cult can also have hope.

[@lillinorrman2675]

I have so much respect for him and he is outstanding in everything he does - from the littlest role to epic productions. Really need to get his book - or even better if it's on Audible!

[@Biotechman10]

I remember telling my devout Catholic mother, "Mom I am gay". She started to cry. I felt so terrible. I thought she was going to disown me. But she also hugged me, the relief washed over me. She said, "You are my son, I will always love you". I know what Luke felt like. It is so hard to come out to your parents. One the most painful and difficult thing I have ever done. Thank you Luke for sharing your story.

[@kiwigirljacks]

As someone who is a current JW (though not a very active one), I’m proud of Luke! Everyone deserves to live authentically as themself. Do I believe everything taught by JW’s… no I don’t. My reason for staying, albeit on the fringes, are for purely selfish (and complicated) reasons. I take what works for me and don’t suffer foolishness for the rest of it. Now, I’m not naive enough to think that everyone is able to get away with the things I do… in fact most people won’t.. but I’ve managed to and when it doesn’t work in my favour any more, I have no qualms about the next steps I’ll take.

[@isabellesarahwood5005]

It’s so important for parents to realise how much this affects kids and how much they need that love and support . I can’t imagine ever rejecting any of my children x it’s hard enough being out in the world being judged without having that in your safe space xx bless LE for sharing his experience and for being his authentic self . That’s all we ever want and that’s not a gay thing it’s a human thing . Love and peace to all ❤❤❤❤❤

[@ZuAnLi]

I was born in Taiwan in 1982. I have been in the family of JW since I was born until I was 25 years old. Now I completely cut off contact with my family after revealing my sexual orientation. I know there will always be a huge hole in my heart. If I had a choice, no one would want to be gay.

[@nichr165]

We are obviously many in the comments that have similar experiences. It is not more than a few weeks ago, that i learned that Luke was a Jehovas Widnes. I had much the same upbringing, except my parents were divorced and I did not have much contact with my dad. I was 21 when I came out to my parents, because I had to be in a situation where if they cut contact with me, I could take care of myself. Luckily I still have good contact with my mom, and I have great respect for people's religious observations. But it is a hard upbringing, knowing that "you are wrong" "you make god sad" "you are not going to make it into paradise". As a kid, that is some hard truth to grow up with. Today I try to keep the good things I got from my religious background, and let the rest pass. I do not let it hold any power over me, but I also acknowledge the value that it has given me. It is a strange and difficult set of thoughts and emotions you have to go through as an adult when you have this kind of upbringing, because as a kid, you simply don't have the understanding of your emotions to process it.

[@Rice_peace]

Amazing. So much love.

[@traceyhill7784]

Such an interesting interview. It is interviews like this that will hopefully raise people's awareness of how their attitudes affect people's lives, both good and bad. ❤

[@HawthorneHillNaturePreserve]

Thank you, Luke❤

[@tino2valentino]

Hi... I'm crying...I'm a in my 30s and still hold onto my fears of losing my loved ones. I fall into line but a line that keeps pointing me out... I haven't escaped, I haven't left and I'm nothing because of it. I don't know how to follow my own line. I fear being ostracised that I have become a recluse. My mother says She loves me but doesn't like what I am. I hold on to something I don't really have.

[@Christy-s3p]

I'm 48 trying to escape after 5 years

[@livquin8557]

Thank you for having Luke on we can see how much empathy & respect you have for him & his story. As a bisexual woman that grew up as a JW I can relate to everything Luke went through. I was 16 when I told my father who was a former elder that I was bisexual. He hugged me & said he's still my father & I'm still his daughter. He's stayed in my life & it's partially because I was never baptized. He never pressured the religion on us as he converted at 18 & always said spiritual & religious beliefs are individual decisions. I feel for those that have much harsher experiences when coming out to very strict religious households.

[@RobertDani]

Suddenly the video isnt full. Ends in a middle of sentence.