Billy Porter Reveals He Is HIV-Positive 14 Years After Diagnosis


In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Emmy-winning actor Billy Porter opened up for the first time about his HIV-positive diagnosis. Porter, who was diagnosed in 2007, said that he chose to remain silent—even to his own mother—until now, in fear of shame and marginalization within the industry. 

“HIV-positive, where I come from, growing up in the Pentecostal church with a very religious family, is God’s punishment,” the 51-year-old said in the interview. “I was trying to have a life and a career, and I wasn’t certain I could if the wrong people knew. It would just be another way for people to discriminate against me in an already discriminatory profession.”

The Pose star says that over the years, playing HIV-positive character, Pray Tell, has been a proxy of sorts. His fictional alter ego is what allowed him “to say everything that I wanted to say” about what it’s like living with HIV. He even cited the series’ co-creator Ryan Murphy as a “catalyst” for coming forward with his diagnosis.

After a year spent in lockdown, away from the public eye, Porter said he’s had time to reflect on the shame and trauma he’s felt because of his diagnosis, as well as begin the process of healing. Now, he is ready to share his story and work to de-stigmatize those living with HIV and AIDS.

“I am the statistic, but I’ve transcended it. This is what HIV-positive looks like now,” Porter said. “The truth is the healing. And hope this frees me … I survived so that I could tell the story. That’s what I’m here for.”

In sharing his story, the actor also mentioned that he’s not only accepted his diagnosis, but feels healthiest he’s had in his entire life. “I’m so much more than that diagnosis. And if you don’t want to work with me because of my status, you’re not worthy of me.”

Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on all the latest fashion news and juicy industry gossip.

You can view the original article HERE.

Kanye West Avoided Diddy Meetup During Rolling Loud Performance
Marvel’s Blade Delayed Amid Writers Strike
Diddy Seen Talking with Federal Agents at Airport as Associate is Arrested
Alex Ferreira Talks Fatherhood and New Music
Giancarlo Esposito Can’t Keep Overcrowded, Rushed Parish on the Road | TV/Streaming
Femme Review | An Edge-of-Your-Seat Queering of the Neo-Noir Crime Thriller
Gillian Anderson Reveals Why She Almost Gave Up Acting 24 Years Ago
Titus: The Masterpiece that the Cinematic Greatness of 1999 Obscured | MZS
Fake and laced benzos are circulating in the UK – causing a “fentanyl-style epidemic”
Lzzy Hale to front Skid Row for upcoming tour
Cillian Murphy reveals he’s gone vegan
‘The Bear’ star is favourite to play Bruce Springsteen in new movie
Ham thrilled as Lakers rally for ‘top-3’ win of year
Report: Cowboys haven’t made Dak extension offers
The Money Game: How Much Can College Athletes Earn with NIL
Understanding the NIL Process: A Comprehensive Guide from Industry-Leading Lawyers
Chicago PD Season 11 Episode 8 Review: On Paper
Malcolm in the Middle Revival Now the ‘Closest It’s Ever Been,’ Frankie Muniz Reveals
The Good Doctor Season 7 Episode 4 Review: Date Night
Neil Patrick Harris’ Uncoupled Series Axed by Showtime Before Season 2
Swarovski’s Underwater Glamazons, Megahn Markle’s Beauty Line, & More!
Cher’s Closet From Clueless Is Becoming A Reality, Thanks To Vêtir
Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson Welcome Their First Baby!
Best JW Pei Bags on Amazon