In a definitive move, Lisa Rinna is emphatically dismissing long-standing rumours that her husband, actor Harry Hamlin, is gay. The speculation originated decades ago following Hamlin's involvement in a pioneering 1982 film that explored gay themes.
Addressing the Rumours in Her Memoir
Rinna, 62, tackles these persistent claims head-on in her newly released memoir, You Better Believe I’m Gonna Talk About It. She writes with clarity and conviction, stating, "Let’s just clear this up one last time, once and for all: Harry’s heterosexual. He is not a gay man in any way, shape or form, not that there’s anything wrong with that." The couple have been married since 1997 and share two daughters, underscoring the personal nature of these rumours.
The Source of the Speculation
The rumours trace back to Hamlin's role in the film Making Love, released in 1982. At the time, Hamlin was a 74-year-old rising star with leading man looks. He portrayed Bart McGuire, a character who embarks on an affair with a married doctor, played by Michael Ontkean. Former Charlie's Angels star Kate Jackson played his wife in the movie.
While the film is now regarded as a trailblazing work for its depiction of gay relationships, it was highly controversial at the time. Rinna notes, "Mainstream films about gay men are still rare today, but back then it was unheard of." This groundbreaking role inadvertently led to intense scrutiny and questions about Hamlin's own sexuality, which have lingered for over four decades.
Rinna's Initial Reaction and Hollywood Context
Rinna reveals that she was unaware of these rumours until she joined the cast of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. She recalls, "I just figured b***hes will say anything to get my hackles up, so it never concerned me. My reaction was always more, 'why you mad, boo?'" She further contextualises the speculation within Hollywood culture, explaining, "Every husband’s sexuality was questioned at some point on that show. When you’re a good-looking man in Hollywood with a good sense of style, that adds up to 'is he gay?'"
Career Impact and Recent Triumph
The role in Making Love had significant professional consequences for Hamlin. Rinna claims that he was "blacklisted for several years afterward" in Hollywood, facing difficulties in securing major roles. It was not until decades later that he booked a significant studio part, highlighting the lasting impact of the film on his career.
However, Rinna expresses immense pride in her husband's resilience. When Hamlin landed a role in the 2023 film 80 For Brady, playing Jane Fonda's love interest, Rinna publicly celebrated his achievement. She praised his "tenacity and standing your ground and risk-taking," calling him a "f---ing Stud!!!" She emphasised the significance of this milestone, noting it was his first major studio movie in 40 years since Making Love.
Legacy of the Film
Despite the personal and professional challenges, Rinna acknowledges the importance of Making Love. She has previously described it as "groundbreaking" and "the first gay love story" from a major studio. The film opened to mixed reviews upon release but has since been recognised for its cultural impact in portraying gay relationships on screen.
Through her memoir, Rinna aims to put these rumours to rest permanently, affirming her husband's heterosexuality while respecting the film's role in Hollywood history. Her candid discussion sheds light on the enduring effects of speculation in the entertainment industry and the strength of their long-term marriage.
