The Goldeneye actor said at the time that he was 'delighted' to be awarded an OBE, but explains that after the Queen's death, his eyes were opened by conversations about the role of the monarchy.
Alan Cumming has given back his OBE, expressing concern over its links to what he describes as the"toxicity" of the British Empire.
The actor said he had made the decision to return the award after listening to conversations about the future of the Royal Family afterCumming was made an OBE in 2009 as part of the Queen's birthday honours, being recognised for acting, as well as the work he does to campaign for LGBTQ+ rights in the US.
"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."
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Alan Cumming gives back OBE over 'toxicity' in the British EmpireThe X-Men actor announced on Friday morning that he has returned the award following conversations about the 'toxicity' in the British Empire.
Read more »
Alan Cumming hands back OBE as discussion about British Empire 'opened my eyes'BREAKING: Actor Alan Cumming has given back the OBE he received 14 years ago.
Read more »
Alan Cumming: Actor and US Traitors host hands back OBEThe X-Men star says although he was 'grateful', his eyes were opened over the 'toxicity of empire'.
Read more »
Alan Cumming Explains Reason Why He Decided To Return His OBE'I’m now back to being plain old Alan Cumming again,' the Traitors US host said.
Read more »
Alan Cumming reveals why he has RETURNED his OBEALAN Cumming has returned his OBE over 'misgivings' surrounding the 'toxicity of empire'.
Read more »
What next for Alan Carr and Amanda Holden's renovated Sicily homeAmanda and Alan's Italian Job will air its next episode on Friday
Read more »