George Takei Says Coming Out at 68 Years Old Allowed Him to Feel 'Whole': 'It Feels Very Liberating'

Published: June 10, 2025

George Takei, the 88-year-old Star Trek alum, has opened up about the liberating experience of coming out as gay at the age of 68. Takei, who came out in 2005, said that living as his true self" has brought him a sense of wholeness and freedom.

According to USA Today, Takei felt "imprisoned" and carried a "sense of guilt" before coming out, which was prompted by then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's veto of a bill that would legalize same-sex marriage in California. Takei, who had already been with his now-husband Brad Altman for nearly two decades at the time, said he felt like he could never be his "whole self."

Takei, who married Altman in 2008, said that living as his true self "feels very liberating." He added, "I don't have to be on my guard, kind of mentally fencing and saying what I want to say but without giving myself away. I developed that skill, but now I don't need to. I can be candid and forthright."

Takei, who has written numerous books throughout his life, has a new one releasing this Pride Month, titled "It Rhymes with Takei," which recounts his childhood through present day.

Takei's Journey to Self-Acceptance

Takei's journey to self-acceptance was not an easy one. He had to navigate the challenges of being a gay man in a society that was not always accepting. However, Takei's courage and determination to live as his true self have inspired many.

Takei's story is a testament to the power of living authentically and being true to oneself. His journey to self-acceptance is an inspiration to many, and his courage to come out at the age of 68 is a reminder that it's never too late to live as your true self.

As Takei said, "It feels very liberating. I don't have to be on my guard, kind of mentally fencing and saying what I want to say but without giving myself away. I developed that skill, but now I don't need to. I can be candid and forthright."

Takei's Marriage and Partnership

Takei's marriage to Brad Altman has been a long and happy one. Takei, who previously told PEOPLE that the secret to his longevity with Altman was sharing two emotions: laughter and anger, said that he and Altman are "opposites" but they understand each other.

Takei added, "Brad is a strict disciplinarian. Brad is detail-oriented and he's organized and he brings that detail and organization to my life so that I can do what I do."

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