Empire's Jussie Smollett Comes Out as Gay: 'There Is No Closet'

Jussie Smollett has publicly come out as a gay man in a new interview with Ellen DeGeneres.

The 31-year-old Empire actor decided not to discuss the topic while filming his interview for the talk show, but then asked Ellen if they could film another segment backstage afterward to open up about his personal life.

“It was really important to me to make sure that it got across that there is no closet,” Jussie said. “There’s never been a closet. That I’ve been in. I don’t own a closet, I got a dresser, but I don’t have a closet, but I have a home and that is my responsibility to protect that home.”

“So that’s why I choose not to talk bout my personal life. But there is without a doubt, no closet that I’ve ever been in, and I just wanted to make that clear, but it was most important for me to make that clear to you on your show at this time in the world. And that’s where I’m at,” he added. “So let’s not read into it the wrong when I say that I don’t talk about my personal life, I’m saying that. But it is in no way to hide or deny who god made me. Ya know?”

“My mama knows. My Mama likes me a lot,” Jussie continued. “And yes I take her to the Sound of Music sing-along every, single year. So, any questions? But you know honestly, we’re humans and we love and we do all that good stuff. So I’m honored for this opportunity and I’m honored to be here with you.”

Click inside to watch Jussie Smollett’s official interview for the show…