When Stars Shine: Jessica Gunning's Bold, Proud Revelation
In the whirlwind world of showbiz, where characters and personas often mask true identities, it's always refreshing when a star steps forward to embrace their authentic self. Jessica Gunning, the British actress who's recently shot to fame with her role as "Martha" in the Netflix hit Baby Reindeer, has done just that. And it's simply heartwarming.
Jessica Gunning publicly came out and proudly declared herself as "a big, old gay." This revelation marks a significant moment, not only for Gunning but for the broader LGBTQ+ community. It’s both a triumph and a testimony to the ongoing journey of self-acceptance, especially during Pride month.
Joining Josh Rein on his podcast Reign with Josh Smith, Gunning opened up about how liberating it felt to live her truth. "I came out in November 2022. And that was a mega, mega thing for me," she shared, giving us a glimpse into her personal journey.
What’s compelling about her story is its relatability. Many can resonate with the feeling of being surrounded by supportive, like-minded friends but still battling internal doubts. Gunning confessed that even with a circle of gay friends, she initially couldn’t see herself as part of the LGBTQ+ community. “I still can’t articulate it in the best way,” she mentioned. “But I realized I was a big, old gay."
Jessica's revelation comes after years of subtle cues throughout her career. Her roles, whether it was kissing Cate Blanchett in the National Theatre’s production of When We Have Sufficiently Tortured Each Other or being part of the 2014 film Pride, suggested an affinity toward the community, even if unconsciously.
Her coming-out narrative isn’t just about acknowledging her sexuality; it's also about battling perceptions related to her body. Gunning admitted that she once attributed her feelings of alienation to her size. Yet, discovering her true self made everything clear. "But as soon as I realized, I was like ‘No, it’s that’, and that was like the most liberating thing,” she added.
Her role in Baby Reindeer is a masterclass in irony. While she plays "Martha," a stalker of comedian Donny (portrayed by creator Richard Gadd), her real-life journey couldn’t be more different. The show is brimming with queer talent, and Gunning's inclusion adds a beautiful layer of authenticity.
In a world where coming out can still be fraught with challenges, Jessica Gunning’s story is a beacon of hope. It's a reminder that understanding and accepting oneself is a journey worth embarking upon, and that journey can be incredibly liberating. So, here's to Jessica Gunning, a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, and an inspiration to many.
Her honest and heartfelt admission is not just a personal victory but a milestone for representation in media. It's a reminder that authenticity, no matter how long it takes to find, is always a cause for celebration. Thank you, Jessica, for sharing your truth. We stand with you, proud and inspired.