I was always the shame of the family - the one Yankee who was actually born in the North.

I could definitely empathize with the character, with the feelings of helplessness - if only the desperation and the feeling of isolation.

I was always the shame of the family - the one Yankee who was actually born in the North.

I can't walk down the street with my head up. I'm not a hat wearer, but now I'm a hat wearer.

Dad said that he was prouder of me than he'd ever been when I came out.

I think the sense of community that exists with all the characters - that's the answer. The fact that they have found a family in their friends. It does give some depth and meaning to their lives.

I've done sexual stuff before - onstage, which is even more emotionally difficult. With a TV crew around, you are stopping and starting; it becomes really technical. It's not erotic at all.