Martina Navratilova Embraces 18-Year-Old Stranger Things’ Star After His Emotional Confession About His Sexuality

In the era of social media, many negative stereotypes break every day. The world is definitely more accepting and inclusive of people from every background than it was before the internet. However, there are still many who struggle with being themselves before their loved ones. One such young celebrity came out of the closet recently, and Martina Navratilova made sure he had her support.

Noah Schnapp, the actor who gained international fame after his role as Will Byers in Netflix’s ‘Stranger Things’ has come out as gay on TikTok. Noah relates his experience to his fans and tells them how he struggled to come out for years, only to discover in the end that his family already knew. Martina Navratilova shared the news about Noah’s recent confession and says it is really disheartening to know how so many people live in this same fear, even today.

Martina Navratilova thinks Noah’s experience is just “sad”

Noah Schnapp posted a hilarious TikTok to come out to his fans all over the world. The 20-year-old confidently expressed his sexuality after knowing that his friends and family knew about it all along. Noah plays the character of Will Byers in Stranger Things.

The character has always been speculated to be homosexual and in love with his friend Mike. Although the show does not make it crystal clear, Noah himself has admitted that it is “100% clear…a very real, obvious thing” that Will is gay. As he came out of the closet, Noah cheerfully exclaims, “I guess I’m more similar to Will than I thought!”

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Martina shared the news about Noah’s family, knowing all along about his sexuality, and stated, “This happens often. And how sad…” The tennis legend was hinting at how Noah stayed in the closet for 18 years, scared to accept his sexuality. Fans have reacted to Martina’s post and they talk about similar experiences they had coming out.

It is really great to see how many new parents are trying to instill confidence in their children regarding the crucial principle of inclusivity. Martina has also replied to some of her fans, and discussed this issue in detail. She has never shied away from discussing bold topics like homosexual representation and support, be it 1981 or 2023.

When Navratilova was removed from an LGBTQ+ organization

Despite being an outspoken member of the LGBTQ+ community member herself, Martina faced a double-twist in regard to her endorsements. After she confessed to her homosexuality, many brands had withdrawn from her. However, as the brands evolved with a much more progressive and inclusive outlook, Martina received support and encouragement.

In 2019, Martina wrote an op-ed on the Sunday Times, calling out transgender women participating in women’s sports. She said they were adopting a cheating method. Following this stance, she lost her position as the brand ambassador of Athlete Ally- an organization aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ athletes. She was also removed from their advisory board.

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