Jussie Smollett has confirmed rumors that he's gay.

The 31-year-old Smollett currently plays a gay role on the Fox musical drama Empire.

Since taking the role of Jamal Lyon, Smollett has refused to discuss his personal life. But in a backstage interview with Ellen DeGeneres, he said that “there is no closet.”

“There's never been a closet. That I've been in. I don't own a closet, I got a dresser, but I don't have a closet, but I have a home and that is my responsibility to protect that home,” he said.

“So that's why I choose not to talk about my personal life. But there is without a doubt, no closet that I've ever been in, and I just wanted to make that clear, but it was most important for me to make that clear to you on your show at this time in the world. And that's where I'm at. ... So, let's not read into it in the wrong way when I say that I don't talk about my personal life, I'm saying that. But it is in no way to hide or deny who God made me. You know?”

“My mama knows. My mama likes me a lot. And, yes, I take her to the Sound of Music sing-along every single year. So, any questions? But honestly, we're human and we love and we do all that good stuff. So I'm honored for this opportunity and I'm honored to be here with you,” Smollett added. (The video is embedded on this page. Visit our video library for more videos.)