‘Grey’s Anatomy’ star comes out as gay
Actor Jake Borelli has come out alongside his screen character Dr. Levi Schmitt.
By Will Stroude
Words: Will Stroude
Grey’s Anatomy star Jake Borelli has come out publicly as gay.
The American actor, who has played surgical intern Dr. Levi Schmitt on the long-running medical drama since 2017, has opened up about his sexuality in public for the first time to coincide with a new coming out storyline for his character.
The most recent episode of Grey’s Anatomy ‘Flowers Grow Out of My Grave’ was broadcast in the US on Thursday night (1 November) and *spoiler alert* saw Dr. Schmitt declare his feelings for new gay surgeon Dr. Nico Kim (played Alex Landi).
Sharing a picture of himself on Instagram wearing a rainbow bandana after the show had aired, 27-year-old Borelli publicly acknowledged his own sexuality as he expressed hope that both he and his character’s story could inspire the “little Levis out there”.
“As a gay guy myself, tonight’s episode was so special to me,” the actor wrote.
“This is exactly the kind of story I craved as a young gay kid growing up in Ohio, and it blows my mind that I’m able to bring life to Dr. Levi Schmitt as he begins to grapple with his own sexuality this season on Grey’s Anatomy.
“His vulnerability and courage inspire me every day, and I hope he can do the same for you.”
Borelli, who according to Entertainment Tonight has been out to family and friends for a decade, continued: “To all of you who feel like little Levis out there, know that I do too, that you are seen, and that we’re all in this together.
“And to everyone who has supported me over the years, I can’t thank you enough, and I love you more than all the stars…”