Stories have the power to connect people, to make them feel seen, and to remind them that no one is truly alone. That connection is why representation on screen holds such significance. Today, the cast of Netflix’s BOOTS, a queer show, however, brought that message to life beyond the screen as well, using their platform to mark National Coming Out Day. Through a heartfelt message, they celebrated the courage required to live authentically and encouraged fans to embrace their identities fully.

The actors speaking on the matter, interestingly, have not only played members of the LGBTQ community on screen but are also from the said faction in real life, therefore making their message more resonant.

For National Coming Out Day, the cast of Netflix’s BOOTS, Miles Heizer, Max Parker, and Angus O’Brien, shared a heartfelt message via the streaming giant's X handle. In a short clip, they celebrated the courage it takes to live openly, reminding everyone that every story matters and that the community stands with them. Highlighting that their series carries themes of identity and resilience, too, they encouraged fans to watch it. “There's no right way to come out,” they further said, adding, “Come out on your own time; we will be waiting with open arms.”

In Netflix’s BOOTS, Miles Heizer plays Cameron Cope, a closeted gay teen navigating the challenges of boot camp in 1990. Max Parker portrays Sgt. Sullivan, a strict drill instructor who is also secretly gay, while Angus O’Brien plays Hicks, a straight recruit, adding additional layers to the group dynamics. Off-screen, both Miles Heizer and Max Parker are openly gay. Angus O’Brien, despite his character not being queer in the series, is openly queer in real life, making the cast a strong voice for authenticity and visibility. BOOTS, meanwhile, is not a fictional story.

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The Netflix offering, which debuted not too long ago, is an adaptation of a memoir documentation of the same name.

Netflix’s BOOTS, an eight-episode-long military drama, is inspired by Greg Cope White’s memoir, The Pink Marine. Cameron Cope is the screen version of the memoir’s subject and author, who dared to serve in the hyper-masculine environment of the military at a time when being openly gay was forbidden in that realm. Cope White co-executive-produced the show to ensure an authentic depiction of his experiences.

By telling Greg Cope White’s story with honesty and nuance, BOOTS delivers more than a gripping military drama; it sends a powerful message about courage found in embracing one’s identity. The heartfelt performances of the aforementioned actors, meanwhile, amplify this message, making it resonate beyond the screen. With its authentic portrayal of resilience and authenticity, BOOTS has therefore become a remarkable addition to Netflix’s treasure trove of pride offerings, reminding viewers that living openly and proudly is worth celebrating.

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What do you think of the BOOTS cast celebrating National Coming Out Day? Let us know in the comments.