Tramell Tillman shared the experience of coming out to his mother while driving at age 20, introducing his bisexuality before later coming out as gay. His mother expressed concerns about potential career damage but offered her unconditional love and support. Tillman reflected on his upbringing, contrasting his mother’s use of religion as comfort with his father's rejection of it. He has made history as the first openly gay Black man nominated for a Best Supporting Actor Emmy and starred in various successful roles, including in Mission Impossible films.
Tillman shared that the first time he came out to his mum was while driving to see his grandmother during the Christmas and New Year holidays. He was 20 at the time and blurted out, "Mom, I'm bisexual," all while looking at the road. "Well, how's that going for you?" she responded.
Her response, as told to Variety, was: "I don't want this to ruin your career, I don't want you to be blackballed, I don't want you to be pigeonholed." But along with her concern came unconditional love as she also told Tillman, "Anyone you bring home, I will embrace him as my son."
Tillman has made history as the first openly gay Black man nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series category for his role as Seth Milchick on Severance. Variety reports it is the only Emmy acting category still to crown a Black winner.
I felt that God and the art saved my life. I'm a person who still prays and believes.
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