Perez Hilton has one less reason to blog furiously in a misguided attempt to out every semi-closeted Hollywood star. Right after Perez scrawled over some pictures of Harris with a hot guy that is claimed to be his long term boyfriend, Harris came out to People magazine. This is in spite of a statement by Harris’ PR person at the beginning of this month that he’s “not of that persuasion.”

While I agree that Evangelical Christians preaching against the “evils” of a “homosexual lifestyle” should be outed, and politicians who do their best to make sure that gay people are denied basic rights should be outed, I’m not sure it’s my business which of the people who entertain me are gay. I mean, I’m kind of naive about this because I don’t think it’s a big deal, but isn’t it someone’s human right to decide if they’re going to come out or not? It seems nasty to call people gay and out them unwillingly. It’s not an easy to decision to come out and many people are still homophobic and ignorant about it. If someone is not ready, why jeopardize their career? OTOH, if more people come out then it won’t be as big of a deal to be a public gay person. It’s just everyone’s right to decide when they’re going to say something about it.

Good for Harris for stepping up to the plate and clearing up the rumors.

The public eye has always been kind to me, and until recently I have been able to live a pretty normal life. Now it seems there is speculation and interest in my private life and relationships.

“So, rather than ignore those who choose to publish their opinions without actually talking to me, I am happy to dispel any rumors or misconceptions and am quite proud to say that I am a very content gay man living my life to the fullest and feel most fortunate to be working with wonderful people in the business I love.”