After being out of the public eye for more than 20 years Kristy McNichol has decided to come out as a lesbian to help kids who are being bullied.
People magazine reports McNichol, 49, who has lived with her partner Martie Allen for the last 20 years, has decided to make a statement about her sexuality because she is “approaching 50” and wants to “be open about who I am.”
“She hopes that coming out can help kids who need support,” the former actress’ publicist Jeff Ballard told People. “She would like to help others who feel different.”
McNichol played Buddy Lawrence in the ‘70s TV show Family, for which she won an Emmy, and later played Barbara Weston in Empty Nest.
McNichol quit Hollywood in the early 1990s after she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She now spends her time focusing on tennis, yoga, travel and raising her beloved miniature dachshunds. “She is very happy and healthy,” says Ballard. “And she enjoys living a very private life.”
Since coming out McNichol has been overwhelmed with the support she has received. Talking exclusively to People McNichol said, “I’m overwhelmed with the love and support of my family, friends and fans.”
