Welcome to the family, Nikki Blonsky and Taylor Schilling! The stars both came out independently yesterday, on Pride Sunday. What a way to celebrate Pride Month!
Blonsky, known for playing Tracy Turnblad in the film version of “Hairspray,” took to her social media pages to announce that she was coming out. In a video posted to her TikTok, she dances and sings to Diana Ross’ iconic “I’m Coming Out.” “Hi, it’s Nikki Blonsky from the movie I’m Gay! #pride #imcomingout #hairspray,” reads the video’s caption. The star also tweeted it out with the alternate caption: “Hi, it’s Nikki Blonsky and I’m coming out! #pride.”
“Hey it’s Nikki Blonsky from Hairspray” is a common sight for those who follow Golden Globe-nominated actress Nikki Blonsky on Twitter. In trying to reach out to stars like drag queen Phi Phi O’Hara to pop star Lady Gaga, Nikki actually developed a catchphrase — one that launched her further into the pop culture light. Now, however, the actress isn’t trying to get the attention of a fellow celeb; instead, she’s trying to get the attention of the world.
Taylor Schilling, known for playing Piper Chapman in Netflix’s “Orange Is The New Black,” also came out on social media. On an Instagram story posted on Sunday, the star confirmed that she is dating musician and visual artist Emily Ritz. “I couldn’t be more proud to be by your side @taylorschilling,” read the caption affixed to a photo of the pair embracing on a hike. “Happy Pride!”
According to Just Jared, Schilling and Ritz met through mutual friends, and their relationship made the transition from friendship into romance late last year. Schilling has never been one to discuss her sexuality, telling Evening Standard in 2017: “I think it’s pretty invasive. I really don’t fit into a box — that’s too reductive.”
Although neither of the actresses has defined their sexuality, it’s still beyond exciting to welcome them to a community of others living their lives honestly, openly, and happily. Happy Pride to them, to you, and to all queers — known or not!
What Do You Think?