CELEBS WELCOME ELLEN PAGE COMING OUT

Hollywood celebs have congratulated Academy Award nominated Canadian actress Ellen Page for coming out on Valentine’s Day.

Page, who is best known for her roles in Juno (2007), Inception (2010) and X-Men: The Last Stand (2006), revealed that she is lesbian at a Human Rights Campaign (HRC) LGBTQ youth conference in Las Vegas on Friday.

“I’m here today because I am gay,” the 26-year-old actress told the audience. “And because… maybe I can make a difference. To help others have an easier and more hopeful time. Regardless, for me, I feel a personal obligation and a social responsibility.”

She went on to say: “I also do it selfishly, because I am tired of hiding and I am tired of lying by omission. I suffered for years because I was scared to be out. My spirit suffered, my mental health suffered and my relationships suffered. And I’m standing here today, with all of you, on the other side of all that pain.”

Page lambasted the media and Hollywood for perpetuating stereotypes and unrealistic and biased standards and norms.

“Sometimes it’s the little, insignificant stuff that can tear you down. I try not to read gossip as a rule, but the other day a website ran an article with a picture of me wearing sweatpants on the way to the gym. The writer asked, ‘Why does [this] petite beauty insist upon dressing like a massive man?’

“Because I like to be comfortable. There are pervasive stereotypes about masculinity and femininity that define how we are all supposed to act, dress and speak. They serve no one. Anyone who defies these so-called ‘norms’ becomes worthy of comment and scrutiny. The LGBT community knows this all too well.”

The actress’ coming out was greeted with congratulations by numerous stars on social media, including actor Emile Hirsch, whom was she was rumoured to have dated. He tweeted: “Props to @EllenPage for helping so many people through their daily struggles by courageously leading by example and coming out on V Day!”

Forgetting Sarah Marshall actress Kristen Bell commented: “Riveted by @EllenPage’s fabulous speech. So honest & funny & articulate. She shines. Happy Valentine’s Day to ALL.”

Modern Family’s Jesse Tyler Ferguson also welcomed the news, “Love love LOVE @EllenPage & the message she sent out today! What a perfect way to end Valentine’s Day!” while singer Ricky Martin added, “Very beautiful Ellen Page!!! I’m very happy for you!!! You are free!”

Page later tweeted, “Thank you @HRC and everyone for all the love and support. X”

Watch the actress’ coming out speech below.