Cheyenne Jackson has opened about his troubled childhood which saw him struggle with his sexuality in a conservative Christian town.
The former Broadway performer grew up in Idaho with a religious family and spent years coming to terms with his feelings before 'coming out' as gay at the age of 19.
Jackson admits he went through a difficult time, but credits his love of music with helping him through.
He tells Out magazine, "I never felt further away from who I really am. Singing was everything to me. It gave me hope."
While his mother, Sherri, adds, "It was a difficult time. It can be real divisive, but I feel we weathered it very well.
"I feel I've become more openhearted, because otherwise the world can be black and white, and it isn't.
"It's good to grow."