Russell Tovey Issues Non-Apology for Comments About Effeminate Gay Men

Russell Tovey with his Looking castmates photographed for Out by JUCO

On Sunday, Looking star Russell Tovey spoke to the UK's The Guardian about his life, career, etc. In the interview, Tovey made some comments about presenting as more traditionally masculine that ruffled some feathers online.

"I feel like I could have been really effeminate, if I hadn't gone to the school I went to," said Tovey. "Where I felt like I had to toughen up. If I'd have been able to relax, prance around, sing in the street, I might be a different person now. I thank my dad for that, for not allowing me to go down that path. Because it's probably given me the unique quality that people think I have."

In response to the backlash that his comments received, Tovey took to Twitter to put out an apology of sorts.

"I surrender. You got me. I'm sat baffled and saddened that a mis- fired inarticulate quote of mine, has branded me worst gay ever" read the first part of his Twitter mea culpa.

Tovey was branded by some, who took his honest reflection about his own upbringing and career as hate speech, as a misogynist and/or self-hating gay who spouted "femmephobia."

What many failed to take notice of--or ready, frankly, 'cause TLDR--what he said immediately after the statements that set off a firestorm.

"I get told, a lot, that I'm kind of carving my own path. That there are not many actors who are out and are able to play straight, and gay, and everyone's OK with it."

Tovey is happy that he has a wide varieties of roles and opportunities available to him. He's also comfortable in his own skin. He's not putting anyone down. His comments were at worst slightly inelegant and poorly-articulated.

But if you can't handle it, here's his apology. Enjoy.