Billy Dee Williams, the actor best known for playing Lando Calrissian in Star Wars, has revealed that he is embracing gender fluidity by using both he/him and she/her pronouns.
Williams, 82, will be reprising his role as Calrissian for Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker in December. Ahead of his return to the franchise, he spoke to Esquire about his gender expression.
“I never tried to be anything except myself,” he said. “I think of myself as a relatively colourful character who doesn’t take himself or herself too seriously.” He later elaborated on his pronouns, explaining: “I say ‘himself’ and ‘herself,’ because I also see myself as feminine as well as masculine. I’m a very soft person. I’m not afraid to show that side of myself.”
This is an incredible announcement. When I was a kid, Billy Dee Williams was one of those figures who was held up as the height of masculinity and masculine beauty, at least in the kind of environment I grew up in. I am so so encouraged right now – especially given his age, and the way he made this statement.
We’re never too old.
Also Lando Calrissian was always my fave.
It’s amazing the difference someone like this can make. I remember how I felt when George Michael, my teen idol, came out as gay.