Alan Cumming has handed back his OBE due to his “misgivings” with being associated with the “toxicity” of the British Empire.
The 58 year old was made an OBE in the 2009Queen’s Birthday Honours for his work in acting, as well as his campaigning for LGBTQ+ rights in the USA.
The Scottish actor, who starred in films including GoldenEye, Emma and the Spy Kids trilogy, said at the time he was “shocked and delighted” to receive the honour.
But following theQueen’s death in September last year and subsequent conversations around the future of the monarchy, Alan said he had decided to revoke the honour.
He wrote on Instagram: “The Queen’s death and the ensuing conversations about the role of monarchy and especially the way the British Empire profited at the expense (and death) of indigenous peoples across the world really opened my eyes.
“Fourteen years ago, I was incredibly grateful to receive it in the 2009 Queen’s birthday honours list, for it was awarded not just for my job as an actor but ‘for activism for equal rights for the gay and lesbian community, USA’.
“Back then the Defence of Marriage Act ensured that same-sex couples couldn’t get married or enjoy the same basic legal rights as straight people, and Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell ensured that openly gay, lesbian or bisexual people were barred from serving in the military.”
Speaking on his 58th birthday on Friday, Alan added: “Thankfully, times and laws in the US have changed, and the great good the award brought to the LGBTQ+ cause back in 2009 is now less potent than the misgivings I have being associated with the toxicity of empire (OBE stands for Officer of the British Empire).
“So, I returned my award, explained my reasons and reiterated my great gratitude for being given it in the first place. I’m now back to being plain old Alan Cumming again. Happy birthday to me!”
In 2014, Alan backed a Yes vote in the Scottish independence referendum and continues to be a supporter of the cause.
Last year, he said the debate around independence is putting people off because it had become “polarised”.
Alan has recently been announced as the host of theUS version of the hit showThe Traitors.
Last year, the Hollywood star wasupstaged by Alexa during an interview onThis Morning. The actor was supposed to be talking about his project, Brigadoon! spoof Schmigadoon!, but was rudely interrupted by the electronic assistant.
Alan also boasts writing among his many talents, having penned six books, including his memoir, Not My Father's Son, which became a New York Times best-seller.
The actor is also known for his cabaret shows, and owns Club Cumming, a gay bar and nightclub in the East Village of Manhattan in New York City.
READ MORE
Simply glowing! Dani Dyer shows off growing baby bump after getting over initial shock of finding out she's expecting identical twins
Gemma Atkinson faces fan comments claiming new baby isn't Gorka Marquez's in new video
Mrs Hinch addresses rumours she's pregnant: 'I hope this clears things up'
Pregnant Princess Eugenie is glowing as she's seen for first time since announcing baby news
'I gave birth 10 weeks ago but I'm desperate for another baby,' says Charlotte Crosby
Source: Read Full Article