X-Men actress Alexandra Shipp comes out after fearing sexuality would stop her getting work: ‘It’s exhausting’

Alexandra Shipp has come out as part of the LGBT community in celebration of Pride Month, writing a powerful message about how she was ‘in denial’ over her sexuality. 

The X-Men actress shared a selfie to her Instagram page alongside a lengthy caption explaining her journey to self-acceptance. 

‘Hi. I didn’t come out until I was 28,’ Alexandra began. ‘I denied denied denied. I struggled with not only my sexuality, but my femininity. I was scared it was too late. I was scared I wasn’t going to be able to get work. I was scared no one would ever love me. Scared. Scared. Scared. It’s exhausting being scared all the time.’ 

Alexandra, 29, detailed how ‘exhausting’ it became to pretend to be someone she wasn’t but is now relieved she gets to be ‘exactly who I want to be every f*****g day and it feels incredible!!’ 

The actress, who is best known for playing Storm in the X-Men franchise, then shared her fears that she would be blacklisted from the industry. 

She continued: ‘It’s never too late to be you. If I don’t work because of a flawed, racist and homophobic system, then it was never the right thing for me.’ 

‘I know multiple someone’s love me and I’m so fortunate and grateful for the love they show me on a daily basis. I’m not denying anything anymore. I’m not scared anymore. I have #pride in who I am and what I’m doing on this planet. I am myself and I love love.’

Referring to Pride Month being celebrated every June, Alexandra added: ‘Sure, we get a month. But for the past 3 years and for the rest of my life, I’ll be celebrating every day. Because I choose me.’ 

The actress’ celebrity friends and fans alike showered her with support, including True Blood actor Mehcad Brooks who commented: ‘Love this. And you babe.’

One fan said: ‘I’m one of the someone’s. Love you so so much!’

‘You’re a bright ol queer light in mah liiiife,’ another wrote.

One other said: ‘We love you ! So happy how true to yourself you are now ! We all here for it and love you for the true you.’

Alexandra recently starred in Hayley Kiyoko’s music video for her single Chance, which sees them fall head over heels for each other and share affectionate moments, including kisses.

The actress rose to prominence playing Aaliyah in the Lifetime movie Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B, before starring as Storm in 2016’s X-Men: Apocalypse and the 2018 rom-com Love, Simon.

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