Professional Dancing On Ice skater Matt Evers has revealed that he’s gay.
The American, 41 – who’s partnered with Great British Bake Off winner Candice Brown on the ITV show – ‘came out’ in an article published by Attitude magazine.
In it, he explained that his decision to announce his sexuality had been driven by the political climate in the United States, describing President Donald Trump as a “bully”.
And fans of the Minnesota-born skater praised the star for being an “inspiration”.
Matt tweeted a link to the Attitude article along with a caption that read: “My message is of love. It’s ok to be exactly who you are. [Expletive] the bullies and never be ashamed. Thank you @AttitudeMag for allowing me to share my turbulent story. #loveislove.”
In the article itself, he launched an attack on Donald Trump, saying: “[He] has given a voice to the bullies. Trump himself is a bully and I’m very outspoken about that.
“I live my life by example, and I want to show young people that what you feel or how you were born isn’t something bad.”
He also recounted the tragic story of his homosexual uncle – who, he says, was “banished” by his family before he died of an AIDS-related illness more than 20 years ago.
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He revealed: “I didn’t know I was gay at the time, but when he was dying it hit me really hard that he didn’t know the love of his mum, my grandmother.”
And Matt’s followers on Twitter seemed thrilled that he’d shared the news.
One wrote: “I will always support you no matter what. Love you Matt. Completely proud of you.”
Another said: “Well done, Matt, for speaking out. I’m sure this will help many other youngsters, as you are an inspiration to so many.”
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And a third added: “I’ve always liked Matt Evers, since his debut on Dancing On Ice. And after reading this article – in the words of Liberty X: ‘I’ll love you just a little bit more’.”
At the Dancing On Ice launch, Matt revealed to presenter Phillip Schofield how awkward it can be pulling off acrobatic manoeuvres with Candice – as hands can go astray.
He laughed: “We get very personal, VERY quickly! I had to reintroduce myself after those moments! ‘Hi, my name is Matt.'”