‘Euphoria’ Star Colman Domingo Discusses Coming Out as Gay to His Family in the 1990s

Colman Domingo recently shared a poignant chapter from his life, reflecting on the experience of coming out as gay to his family in the 1990s. The actor spoke with a mix of calmness and emotion about how each conversation unfolded, noting the varied reactions he received from different family members.

Domingo revealed that he first confided in his older brother. Initially, the moment was tense, filled with uncertainty about how his brother would react.

His brother’s first response was one of shock and disbelief, but it quickly transformed into acceptance and support. Domingo recounted, “I told him that I was gay. He looked at me and was just like, ‘What?’ He just couldn’t believe it. Eventually, he said, ‘I don’t care, man. I love you anyway.’ And he just hugged me. Then he said, ‘Have you told anyone else?’ I said, no. He said, ‘Alright, this stays between you and me.’”

Feeling encouraged, Domingo then approached another close family member, his sister. This conversation, however, elicited a very different emotional response. She expressed frustration and hurt, not due to his sexuality, but because she felt excluded from such an important moment.

Domingo noted, “She was pissed off. I said, ‘Look, yes, it was really hard for me to tell him.’ She said, ‘No, no, no. Why didn’t you tell me first?’ She was upset because she didn’t get the information first.” Despite the intensity of her reaction, it stemmed from a place of care and closeness within their family.

Later, Domingo shared the news with his mother. Her response was calm and measured, allowing her time to process the information. Shortly after their conversation, she reached out again, this time with his stepfather. Domingo shared his stepfather’s reassuring words, stating, “You’re a good boy and there’s nothing you can tell me that would make me stop loving you.” This moment added another layer of acceptance and support in his life.

Domingo described these conversations as crucial steps in understanding himself and his role within his family. Although each reaction varied, he expressed that they ultimately fostered a deeper sense of connection and honesty among them.

The Men’s Health interview also touched on Domingo’s life beyond that period, revealing that he is now married to Raúl Domingo, whom he met in 2005. The couple tied the knot in 2014 and has since built a lasting partnership.

Reflecting on his journey, Domingo emphasized that coming out can be a unique experience, even within the same family, with reactions ranging from surprise and emotion to immediate acceptance.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!