George Takei Clarifies His Comments on Gay Star Trek Character: "The Headlines Have Been Misleading"

The actor is personally married to a man since 2008

George Takei does not want to be misunderstood. 

No, the 79-year-old actor, who appeared as Hikaru Sulu in Star Trek in the 1960s, is not apologizing for his recent comments regarding the franchise's latest decision to make the character gay. Instead, he's clarifying why he told the Hollywood Reporter the twisting of the character's sexual identity was "really unfortunate."

"I'm writing to set the record 'straight,' if you will," he began in a lengthy message shared on Facebook. "When the news first broke, I gave a lengthy telephone interview, but the headlines have been misleading. Apparently, controversy makes for better sales! Let me be clear: I am not disappointed that there is a gay character in Star Trek. On the contrary, as I made clear, I am delighted that the Star Trek franchise has addressed this issue, which is truly one of diversity. It is thrilling to know that future generations will not see LGBTs go wholly unrepresented in the Trek universe."

So, why the discontent, George? According to the actor, who is openly gay and has been married to Brad Altman Takei since 2008, his opinion has nothing to do with the sexual orientation, but rather the character that was chosen. Takei revealed that the franchise's creator, Gene Roddenberry, had intended to include LGBT characters in the Star Trek universe, but the time period of the franchise was a touchy one and the show had already pushed its boundaries with television's first interracial kiss, which was heavily censored and caused a drop in ratings. Therefore, Takei was aware that Sulu's heterosexuality was a purposeful choice. 

"The lack of gay characters was not some oversight by [Roddenberry]; it was a conscious decision with which he grappled. I loved Gene as a friend, and I respected his decision and the context under which he created these stories," he continued explaining. "On this 50th year anniversary of Star Trek, my hope was to honor his foresight and bravery, as well as his ability to create discussion and diversity despite these constraints.

Despite his disagreement in this particular choice, George hails its overall message.

"I wish John Cho well in the role I once played, and congratulate Simon Pegg on his daring and groundbreaking storytelling," Takei concluded. "While I would have gone with the development of a new character in this instance, I do fully understand and appreciate what they are doing—as ever, boldly going where no one has gone before. Star Trek will live long and prosper."