In an interview with TVNZ’s Seven Sharp on Monday, former New Zealand rugby player Campbell Johnstone made history as the first All Black to come out publicly as gay. Johnstone, who played three Test matches for New Zealand in 2005, including two against the British and Irish Lions, revealed that he had disclosed his sexuality to friends and family long before making the public announcement.
Johnstone expressed his hope that by coming out, he could help alleviate the pressure and stigma surrounding the issue for others. “If I can be the first All Black that comes out as gay and take away the pressure and stigma surrounding the issue it can actually help other people,” he said. He added that public knowledge of a gay All Black could be a crucial step towards greater acceptance in sports.
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Mark Robinson commended Johnstone for his courage and its positive impact on the sport. Robinson emphasized that rugby is an inclusive sport where everyone should feel safe to be themselves, regardless of who they love.
“Rugby is a sport that is welcoming to everyone and a place where people should feel safe to be who they are,” Robinson said, affirming that rugby stands in support of all individuals.
Johnstone, 43, acknowledged that he was prepared for the attention his announcement would bring, stating, “I am very much happy and very comfortable about myself, so I am very happy about that.”