Tom Daley recalls clearly his initial visit to a gay club. At that time, he was 19 years old, and the event took place on the eve when he announced his sexuality in a YouTube video.
On a recent episode of the “Just for EbMaster” podcast, Daley, aged 31 now, reminisces about an extraordinary event. “There was this captivating drag queen who stood tall among the crowd,” he said, “and everyone seemed so liberated. For me, it was a revelation – ‘This realm where one can simply be oneself and not fear judgment was astounding.’ It was my first step from feeling scared to feeling thrilled about embracing my identity and letting go of others’ opinions.
After that, he hasn’t turned back and has been consistently contacted by other LGBTQ athletes, many of whom are still in the closet. Daley acknowledges that coming out in certain regions may pose unique challenges compared to places like the U.K. or the U.S., making it potentially hazardous. He often advises these individuals that he can serve as a sounding board due to the solitary nature of this experience.
Afterward, he’s never looked back and has been reaching out by many other LGBTQ athletes, some who are still in the closet. Daley recognizes that coming out in specific areas might be more difficult than in countries like the U.K. or the U.S., which could be risky. He usually tells them that he can listen and offer advice because this journey can feel very lonely.
The new documentary titled “Tom Daley: 1.6 Seconds” details Daley’s life journey. This movie covers his upbringing in the U.K., multiple Olympic competitions (he finally achieved his long-held dream of winning a gold medal in 2020), the tragic loss of his father during his teenage years, and his current life in Los Angeles, where he resides with his husband, Oscar-winning screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, and their two children.
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Daley expressed his initial uncertainty regarding the project, stating, “At first, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to take it on.” However, as he pondered over it, he found himself thinking, “You know what? This could be something truly special that I can share with my children in the future. I can say, ‘Look at this, kids! This is what Papa did every day. This is the project your grandfather was involved in.’ And perhaps it would also help me understand and appreciate our relationship even more.
He frequently needed to pause filming the most when Director Vaughan Sivell played videos featuring him and his father, as Daley explains. “I pattern much of my parenting and daily activities after what I learned from my dad,” he states. “He’s my greatest supporter. He attended every training session, competition, and was a significant presence in my life, day after day.
He admits, ‘Losing him was one of the toughest experiences I’ve faced.’ Being in the public eye in the U.K. during that time made it even more difficult. Watching old footage brings back painful memories, as he sees his younger self trying to stay strong while hiding his true feelings. He didn’t want to burden others with his emotions, fearing it might make them uncomfortable. He hopes that, through this documentary, people understand that seeking help and leaning on others is not a sign of weakness.
Additionally, Daley discusses his battles with self-perception regarding his physical appearance. This struggle started when someone pointed out during his diving career that he was no longer as lean and muscular as before, due to changes in his body. “I continue to grapple with it,” Daley admits. “Transitioning from training six hours a day, six days a week, to retirement has brought about new expectations for my appearance. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle while adjusting to these altered expectations can be quite challenging, yet I must learn to embrace this new phase of my life and discover what my fitness routine and dietary habits should look like now.
He admits to consistently striving to come to terms with his current situation. “I understand logically that I’m doing well, but deep down, there’s a part of me that misses the feeling of being at my athletic peak, like an Olympic athlete,” Daley explains. “It’s tough to accept that I might not reach those heights again.
As a fervent admirer, if given the chance to imagine who would portray Daley’s life on screen, he shares his thoughts: “Tom Holland seems like the perfect fit. He possesses a certain agile charm that resonates with me. I believe we share some similarities, so I think Tom Holland could convincingly embody my character.
And who would portray his husband, who won the original screenplay Oscar in 2009 for “Milk”?
Daley expressed, “I believe he would absolutely choose Joel Kinnaman to portray himself,” as Pride Month was only a fortnight away. Reflecting on its significance, he shared his thoughts, stating, “This period is crucial for recalling our origins instead of merely indulging in the celebrations. It’s essential to keep in mind the struggle for freedom and the ongoing fight for the liberties that those before us have fought hard for. For me, it’s about pushing for change, not just for the present but also for future generations.
Feel free to catch the entire chat with Daley, available now on “Just for EbMaster” (or any platform where you prefer to stream your favorite podcasts).
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2025-06-01 18:17