because we just filmed the show,

and I'm about to tape another show right now.

And before I walked out, you knocked on the door,

said, "I'd like to talk to you,"

so this is why we're here.

- Well, no, it was very, very important to me

that as my first-- you know,

as my first performance and talk show

that it was with you.

You've such an inspiration to so many,

but also to me.

What you've done with-- in the LGBT community

is very much, in my opinion,

kind of like what Michael Jackson did

with the black community.

Just that you are who you are,

and he was just Michael, and you're just Ellen.

So, you know, it was really important to me

to make sure that it got across

that there is no closet.

There's never been a closet that I've been in.

I don't own a closet. I have a dresser.

- Right. - But I don't have a closet.

- Right. - But I have a home.

And that is my responsibility, to protect that home.

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.

And I'm such a fan... - Well, thanks.

- But also so inspired. - Thank you so much.

Because I think when I brought up the fact

that your character came out and we talked about it

and you were expressing yourself,

I think a lot of people are still questioning,

and when we finished this show,

they were like, you know, "Well, is he, isn't he?"

I think the most important thing is talent.

The most important thing is what we do.

We don't want anything to get in the way of that,

but there are questions out there,

and I think that's why it was my responsibility

to at least just give you the opportunity.

And I am so proud of you that you say,

"There is no closet. There never has been a closet."

You've never pretended to be anything...

- Ever. - That you aren't.

- Ever, 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...

- Yeah, denying it.

- To hide or deny who God made me.

- Yes. - You know?

My mama knows. My mama likes me a lot.

- Yeah. - So...

And, yes, I take her to the "Sound of Music" sing-along

every single year.

So any questions?

No, but honestly, it's-- You know, we're human,

and we love, and we--

we do all that good stuff.

So I'm honored for this opportunity,

and I'm honored to be here with you.

- I'm proud of you, and I think--

first of all, I think the show is a huge platform

for a lot of people,

and I think there are so many stereotypes

and judgments,

and the fact that you're shattering that

by the role you're playing

and the strength you have to come out

and talk about it and represent,

I'm proud of you.

- Thank you so much. - All right.

Well, good, I'm glad we got a chance to talk.

- Boom. - Now I go do another show.

- Now y'all ain't got to ask no more.

- Uh-huh. You don't have to ask anymore.

- I told Ellen. - All right.

- Who else do I need to tell? - That's it.