NBA's Jason Collins Comes Out as Gay: Ellen DeGeneres, Katy Perry, Bill Clinton and More React

Basketball player has inspired Hollywood reactions via Twitter

By Lily Harrison Apr 29, 2013 7:06 PMTags
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Hollywood is showing its support for NBA player Jason Collins after he came out as a gay man on the cover of Sports Illustrated today.

The first active professional athlete from a major North American sport said in the article, "I'm black and I'm gay."

Celebrities have taken to Twitter to stand by Collins and commend him on his bravery.

Kathy Griffin: Hey @JasonCollins34 Inspired by your courage and leadership.

Katy Perry: Same! RT @diablocody Congrats, Jason Collins, and thank you!

Rosie O'Donnell: Thank you Jason Collins—for being the first one—knocking down doors!!!

Neil Patrick Harris: Bravo, @JasonCollins34! Thanks for stepping up. For standing tall. And at 7 feet, that's saying a lot.

Ellen DeGeneres: @NBA center @JasonCollins34 is the 1st player on a US major team. I'm overwhelmed by your bravery, Jason, & sending so much love

Jesse Tyler Ferguson: @JasonCollins34 is my new favorite person

Dwayne Johnson: Being real & authentic is very powerful. Well done Jason Collins for having the courage to take a monumental step forward. #LiveReal

Busy Phillips: I'm so impressed with @JasonCollins34 eloquence & bravery. I hope this inspires others who may be struggling.

Christine Teigen: I dunno who you are Jason Collins but I am extremely proud of you if that means anything.

Lance Bass: Congrats @JasonCollins34!! Giant leap for sportsMdash;and the conversation continues!

Kobe Bryant: Proud of @JasonCollins34. Don't suffocate who u r because of the ignorance of others #courage #support #mambaarmystandup #BYOU

Steve Nash: The time has come. Maximum respect.

Bill Clinton: I'm proud to call Jason Collins a friend.

Collins' most recent team also released an official statement via Twitter saluting the player.

"We are extremely proud of Jason & support his decision to live his life proudly and openly."