It Doesn't Get Better: Richard Chamberlain Thinks Gay Actors Should Stay in the Closet

Much was made in recent weeks about the sexuality of John Travolta and Kevin Spacey, but whatever their preference, one actor thinks they should continue to keep that bit of personal information personal. "For an actor to be working is a kind of miracle, because most actors aren't, so it's just silly for a working actor to say, 'Oh, I don't care if anybody knows I'm gay' -- especially if you're a leading man," Richard Chamberlain told The Advocate. "Personally, I wouldn't advise a gay leading man-type actor to come out."

The former '60s heartthrob and Thorn Birds star came out in 2003, but the 76-year-old Chamberlain still thinks the current climate is not conducive to acceptance.

"It's complicated. There's still a tremendous amount of homophobia in our culture. It's regrettable, it's stupid, it's heartless, and it's immoral, but there it is. [...] Despite all the wonderful advances that have been made, it's still dangerous for an actor to talk about that in our extremely misguided culture. Look at what happened in California with Proposition 8. Please, don't pretend that we're suddenly all wonderfully, blissfully accepted."

Ouch. For what it's worth, coming out hasn't stopped Chamberlain from working -- he's appeared on Chuck, Leverage, Desperate Housewives, Brothers & Sisters and Nip/Tuck since 2003. Might a reunion with Ryan Murphy on Glee be next? "I only saw Glee for the first time a couple of weeks ago, and it was cute. Sure, why not? I'd love the opportunity to sing again."

· Sibling Revelry [The Advocate via TMZ]