Actor Luke Fetherston on Being Told to Hide His Sexuality

Flowers in the Attic: The Origin actor Luke Fetherston is opening up about playing a gay role in the latest take on the iconic, twisted series and how, even now, actors are still being told to hide their sexualities.

Fetherston took on the role of Joel Foxworth in the series, which takes us back to the story of the Dollanger children’s grandmother, Olivia. Joel struggles with his burgeoning sexuality and romance with one of their housekeepers, and ends up in the 1920s and ’30s version of conversion therapy as a result. 

It’s something the actor felt strongly about portraying responsibly, particularly with LGBTQ+ rights suddenly seeming up for question again in various parts of the world that had previously been moving forward. 

“It carried a lot of weight. And I didn’t realise how much I didn’t know about what people were put through, and what people still are being put through,” he told Attitude during a recent interview. “I did as much research as I could. And I wanted to give that moment in the series as much weight as I believe that it deserves.”

While he, like many queer people, hope for a world where sexuality isn’t “anyone else’s business,” he seems to acknowledge in the interview that we’re not at that place just yet. And representation of gay people playing gay roles is something important to him.

“I’m sure the majority of us have been told to hide our sexuality. I can't imagine meeting a gay actor that hasnt been told that,” he said. “So, until we don't have to do that, then, yes, I believe it’s important that gay people are cast as gay characters. It’s the most authentic option. So surely, that's the best option.”

Fetherston also opened up about a recent cast mate (prior to Flowers in the Attic) who suggested it might be best for his career if he stop being so open about being gay.

“Admittedly, she grew up in a different time. So perhaps her views are now maybe slightly archaic,” he suggested. “Have I ever worried? Yes, I have worried about announcing it. As I said, it’s not something I think anyone needs to scream and shout about because what does it matter? I’m playing a gay role. And I’m a gay man. Why wouldn't I say that?”

Flowers in the Attic: The Origin airs on Lifetime, Saturdays at 8:00pm ET.

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