Actress Miriam Margolyes, renowned for her roles in the 1993 film The Age of Innocence and as Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter franchise, graced the pages of Vogue magazine’s June issue as part of the publication’s Pride Month celebrations.
Miriam, among the many prominent LGBTQ+ actors, musicians, politicians, and athletes from the UK, participated in Vogue’s recent features, where they openly discussed their sexuality. Joining her were individuals like actress Janelle Monáe, singer Rina Sawayama, The Last of Us’s Bella Ramsey, Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa, and House of the Dragon’s Emma D’Arcy. Alongside these interviews, non-celebrities were also included, such as the first gay couple to legally marry in the UK in 2014 and the oldest person to undergo gender reassignment surgery at 81.
During her conversation with the magazine, Miriam expressed her lack of shame about being gay and her unwillingness to trade her sexual orientation for anything. She emphasized that being part of the LGBTQ+ community sets individuals apart and grants them a unique perspective. Miriam also praised the artistic and musical talents found within the community.
When asked about the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the UK, Miriam openly admitted her concerns and pessimism, not only in relation to LGBTQ+ matters but about the overall state of the country. She criticized the government and expressed her belief that England has experienced a decline in morality and integrity.
Miriam has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community since coming out as a lesbian in 1966 when homosexuality was still illegal in Britain. Her bravery in sharing her truth during that time resonated with others who felt the same. In the Vogue interview, she discussed her experiences and the lack of shame she felt, stating that she knew her sexual orientation wasn’t criminal because it was an intrinsic part of who she was.
In her book, This Much Is True, Miriam revealed the immense pain she felt when her mother passed away shortly after she came out. She carried guilt, believing that her disclosure had caused her mother’s suffering. It was a difficult period in her life, marked by unhappiness and the realization that she couldn’t change her identity.
For the Vogue photo shoot, the award-winning actress exuded elegance with her grey hair styled in a bun and stunning makeup, including a deep rouge lip. Speaking about her body image, Miriam acknowledged her insecurities but expressed a determination to embrace her physical form regardless. She described her face as kind, warm, open, and smiley, but expressed dissatisfaction with her body, particularly her breasts, drooping belly, and twisted legs. Despite this, she stressed the importance of making the best of what one has and promoting self-acceptance.
Miriam emphasized the strength in being unafraid to be oneself and the significance of making others feel good about who they are. She recognized that insecurity is a common feeling and that people often live in fear, but she strived to uplift and empower individuals.
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