The favorite tomboy of many a budding lesbian back in the 1970’s and 80’s Kristy McNichol, 49, came out last week in an official statement and with a photo of her with her partner Martie Allen in hopes that coming out might help bullied kids, she told the magazine. Now, the actress tells People that she’s overwhelmed by the positive response she’s received.
"I'm overwhelmed with the love and support of my family, friends and fans," McNichol told People.
McNichol rose to fame as the adorable Buddy in the television show Family, in which Meredith Baxter – who came out as a lesbian in 2009—played her older sister. McNichol went on to star in the ultimate losing your virginity at camp teen movie Little Darlings in 1980 and in the late 80’s starred in the sitcom Empty Nest. McNichol has been out of the public eye since 1998.
Regarding her decision to come out last week McNichol’s publicist Jeff Ballard told People that Kristy “is very sad about kids being bullied. She hopes that coming out can help kids who need support. She would like to help others who feel different." Ballard has now elaborated that McNichol hopes that many small steps –like her coming out—will add up and make a difference.
View the picture of McNichol and her partner here.
Check out McNichol in SheWired's round-up of pop culture tomboys here.
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