Welsh actor Luke Evans has candidly shared his experience of growing up as a gay man within the Jehovah’s Witness community. In his new memoir, “Boy from the Valleys: My Unexpected Journey,” Evans delves into his roots in a small village in the Rhymney Valley and the challenges he faced as a member of the Jehovah’s Witness faith. Despite being known for his roles in major films like “Beauty and the Beast” and “Fast & Furious 6,” Evans’ journey to Hollywood was marked by personal struggles.
Raised in Aberbargoed, Evans grappled with his sexuality while adhering to the teachings of the Jehovah’s Witness faith, which does not support homosexuality. At the age of 17, he made the difficult decision to leave his home and religious community in pursuit of his authentic self. Speaking on BBC Radio Wales, Evans revealed that he kept his sexuality hidden from his parents to shield them from potential conflict. He described the religion’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues as a significant obstacle in his journey of self-discovery.
Despite the challenges he faced, Evans found the courage to come out to his parents at 19, who remain active Jehovah’s Witnesses. In his memoir, he reflects on the evolving relationship with his family and the mutual respect they have cultivated over the years. Apart from the conflict surrounding his sexuality, Evans also encountered restrictions within the Jehovah’s Witness community that limited his participation in school activities like choir performances and holiday celebrations.
The restrictions imposed by his religious upbringing pushed Evans to explore his passion for performing arts outside of Aberbargoed. Moving to Cardiff at 16, he immersed himself in singing lessons before making the pivotal move to London to pursue a career in acting. Reflecting on his formative years, Evans acknowledged that the resilience instilled in him by his Jehovah’s Witness upbringing has been a cornerstone of his success in the entertainment industry.
In a recent interview, Evans shared that his early experiences of facing rejection while evangelizing with his family prepared him for the highs and lows of the showbiz world. The actor emphasized the importance of perseverance and resilience in navigating the challenges of his career. Despite the hurdles he faced growing up, Evans has emerged as a celebrated actor, known for his versatility and dedication to his craft.
As he continues to share his story through his memoir and public appearances, Evans offers insight into the complexities of identity, family dynamics, and personal growth. His upcoming event, “Luke Evans In Conversation,” provides a platform for fans to engage with the actor, ask questions, and acquire a signed copy of his memoir. Through his openness and honesty, Evans inspires others to embrace their authentic selves and navigate their own journeys with courage and determination.