On January 13, 2013, during the 70th Golden Globe Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, Jodie Foster delivered a heartfelt speech that would mark a significant moment in her career and personal life. While accepting the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award for her outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry, the acclaimed actress subtly acknowledged her sexuality, confirming long-standing speculations that she is a lesbian. This moment of vulnerability and courage resonated deeply with her peers, prompting an outpouring of support from numerous Hollywood stars who praised her bravery and authenticity.
Jodie Foster, a two-time Academy Award winner, has long been celebrated for her remarkable talent and versatility in Hollywood. Born Alicia Christian Foster on November 19, 1962, in Los Angeles, she began her career as a child model before transitioning to acting. Her breakout role came at the age of 14 when she portrayed a teenage prostitute in Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver (1976), earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Foster’s career continued to flourish with iconic roles in films like The Accused (1988) and The Silence of the Lambs (1991), both of which earned her Oscars for Best Actress. Over the decades, she has solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses and filmmakers, also taking on roles as a director and producer.
During her Golden Globe acceptance speech, Foster addressed her personal life in a way she never had before. While she did not explicitly use the word “gay,” her words were a clear acknowledgment of her sexual orientation. She spoke about the challenges of living in the public eye and the pressure to conform to societal expectations, saying, “I’m just going to put it out there, loud and proud, right? I am… single.” She then humorously clarified, “No, I’m kidding—but I mean, I’m not really kidding, but I’m kind of kidding.” Foster went on to express gratitude to her former partner, Cydney Bernard, with whom she shares two sons, Charles and Kit. She described Bernard as “my heroic co-parent, my ex-partner in love, but righteous soul sister in life,” acknowledging their deep bond despite their separation.
Foster’s speech was a poignant reflection on her journey of self-acceptance. She emphasized her desire for privacy, noting that she had always valued her personal life over public scrutiny. “I’ve always lived my life in a way that I thought was honest and true to myself,” she said, adding that she hoped her decision to speak openly would inspire others to live authentically. Her words struck a chord with the audience, and the room erupted in applause, with many attendees visibly moved by her sincerity.
Following the ceremony, Hollywood stars took to social media and interviews to express their admiration for Foster’s courage. Actress and comedian Rosie O’Donnell, who had come out as a lesbian in 2002, was among the first to voice her support. On Twitter, O’Donnell wrote, “Jodie Foster – brave – amazing – I salute u – loved the speech.” Her message highlighted the significance of Foster’s announcement for the LGBTQ+ community, especially coming from a figure of Foster’s stature in the entertainment industry.
Actress Jamie Lee Curtis also shared her thoughts on Foster’s speech, emphasizing the importance of authenticity. In an interview, Curtis said, “Jodie Foster gave a speech that was a testament to the power of being true to oneself. She’s an inspiration, not just as an actress, but as a human being.” Curtis, known for her roles in films like Halloween and True Lies, praised Foster for her grace and strength, noting that her openness would undoubtedly pave the way for greater acceptance in Hollywood and beyond.
Another prominent figure who lauded Foster was actor John Travolta, who has worked with her in the past. Travolta described Foster as “a class act” and said, “Her speech was beautiful and moving. It takes a lot of guts to stand up there and be so honest. I’m proud of her.” Travolta’s comments reflected the sentiment shared by many in the industry, who saw Foster’s speech as a defining moment in her career.
Foster’s announcement also drew praise from younger stars, including actress Anne Hathaway. Hathaway, who had recently starred in Les Misérables, expressed her admiration for Foster’s vulnerability. “Jodie Foster is a legend, and her speech was so powerful,” Hathaway said in a statement. “She showed the world that you can be successful, talented, and true to who you are. I have so much respect for her.” Hathaway’s words underscored the impact of Foster’s speech on a new generation of actors who look up to her as a role model.
In addition to the support from her peers, Foster’s speech sparked conversations about the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Hollywood. While the industry has made strides toward inclusivity, many actors still face pressure to conceal their sexual orientation for fear of damaging their careers. Foster’s decision to speak openly was seen as a step forward in breaking down those barriers. Her speech also highlighted the importance of representation, as she became one of the most high-profile actresses to publicly acknowledge her sexuality at the time.
Beyond her personal revelation, Foster used her platform to reflect on her career and the evolving nature of the entertainment industry. She spoke about the need for more privacy in an age of constant media scrutiny, saying, “If you had to fight for a life that felt real and honest and normal against all odds, then maybe you’d value privacy above all else.” Her words resonated with many in the audience who have navigated the complexities of fame while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy in their personal lives.
Foster’s speech was not just a moment of personal triumph but also a celebration of her remarkable career. The Cecil B. DeMille Award, presented to her by actor Robert Downey Jr., recognized her contributions to film over the past four decades. Downey Jr. introduced Foster with a heartfelt tribute, calling her “one of the most fearless and talented people I’ve ever met.” The award was a fitting honor for an actress whose work has left an indelible mark on Hollywood.
As the ceremony concluded, Foster’s speech continued to dominate headlines and social media conversations. Fans and advocates for LGBTQ+ rights celebrated her courage, with many noting that her visibility as a lesbian woman in Hollywood would inspire others to live openly and authentically. Foster’s announcement came at a time when the fight for marriage equality and LGBTQ+ rights was gaining momentum in the United States, making her words all the more impactful.
In the days following the Golden Globes, Foster remained relatively private, allowing her speech to speak for itself. Her decision to come out on such a public stage was a testament to her strength and authenticity, qualities that have defined her career and personal life. As Hollywood continues to evolve, Jodie Foster’s legacy as a trailblazer—both as an actress and as an advocate for living truthfully—will undoubtedly endure.
