Sports broadcaster and NFL Hall of Fame legend Michael Irvin is the cover star of Out magazine’s Sports Issue, on newsstands now.
Irvin’s cover is one of two covers whose theme focuses on straight allies fighting for equality. Rugby star Ben Cohen has the alternative cover.
In the issue Irvin, photographed in vintage leather football gear, talks about his brother and his response to his brother’s homosexuality.
“I’m not gay, but I was afraid to even let anyone have the thought,” the former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver told Out. “I can only imagine the agony — being a prisoner in your own mind — for someone who wants to come out. If I’m not gay and I am afraid to mention it, I can only imagine what an athlete must be going through if he is gay.”
Irvin continued on to say that he’s in support of any athlete who comes out of the closet.
“If anyone comes out in those top four major sports, I will absolutely support him,” said Irvin. “That’s why I do my radio show every day. When these issues come out, I want to have a voice to speak about them. I think growth comes when we share.”
“Until we do that, we’re going to be stuck in the Dark Ages about a lot of things,” he continued. “When a guy steps up and says, ‘This is who I am,’ I guarantee you I’ll give him 100% support.”
More images after the break!
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Michael Irvin in OUT.
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Michael Irvin in OUT.
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