Former National Rugby League player Kane Evans came out as gay in an emotional interview, where he opened up about his long road to self-acceptance.
“I was living in denial, from a young age I [knew] that I’m gay but I went down every other avenue to build up these walls to be someone to escape who I am,” Evans, 34, told Nine’s 100% Footy on Monday, June 8. “I still can’t believe I’m here talking to you, this is definitely my worst nightmare, but I know if I surrender, it’s the start to a new life. I’ve been fighting a war within since I was about 15 years old, and it’s not sustainable.”
Evans acknowledged he was recently homeless as he wrestled with his identity.
“I was sleeping in parks, doing drugs, trying to ultimately pass away so I didn’t have to come to this,” Evans said. “But I know there are people struggling with the same struggle I’ve gone through, so I’m very blessed that I can come here and talk to you and be able to save a life or two. I’ve carried that around my whole life but I’m here today to show people you don’t have to live like that. Even now I feel more free just by saying it out loud. I’ve brought it to light.”
In recent years, Evans said he was subject to blackmail over his sexuality, which ultimately helped inspire him to come out.
“Now I’ve come and spoken about it, they’ve lost their power,” he boasted. “Coming and just speaking today, fear shame and guilt, I’ve cut ties with all that. I feel peace within and I feel a weight has lifted off my shoulders.”
Evans admitted he was still in the process of coming out personally to his friends and family, including his parents, who he planned on telling before the interview aired Monday night.
“I love my mum and dad so much and they know but I need to tell them, it has to come from my mouth,” he said. “My mum, she’s ill at the minute, but I’ve got so much love for them. By the time this airs I would have told them already, and I can’t wait for that moment because then I’ll be free. I feel free now but once I tell them I’ll be free. Nothing will stop me after that.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
