Rylan Clark, known for his TV presenting, shared a troubling incident from his youth in his latest documentary, “Rylan: Homophobia, Football, and Me.”
He recounted facing anti-gay insults while trying to join in football games, causing him confusion and hurt.
These experiences, combined with his love for the Spice Girls and dancing, made him a target for bullies.
Traumatic Attack
One particularly traumatic incident occurred at a local park, where Clark was assaulted while on the swings.
He vividly remembered being thrown to the ground and kicked in the head, resulting in waking up in the back of an ambulance with a fractured skull.
Finding Strength and Understanding
Despite the trauma, Clark expressed a complex sentiment of almost being glad for the attack, as it taught him the importance of treating others with kindness.
He also discussed how he sees his public persona of Rylan as a form of protection, like an armor.
Football and Uncomfortable Realizations
Clark, a West Ham fan, discussed his love for football but admitted feeling uncomfortable around some spectators due to the language and insults used.
He shared that as he became more well-known, these experiences became more challenging.
Hope for Change
Through his documentary, Clark aims to highlight the inclusivity of football, emphasizing that it should be enjoyable for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation.
He interviews fans, players, and others involved in the football world to discuss how the sport can become more welcoming.
Support from the Football Community
Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand, who appears in the documentary, expressed his support for Clark and condemned discrimination in all forms.
He acknowledged his past use of insensitive language and expressed a willingness to learn and change.
Documentary Premiere and Availability
“Rylan: Homophobia, Football, and Me” premiered on Feb 13 on TNT Sports 1 and is available to stream on Discovery+.
Share on Facebook «||»
Share on Twitter «||»
Share on Reddit «||»
Share on LinkedIn
Eurovision Presenters Rylan Clark and Scott Mills Rescued by Emergency Services Amidst Fan Frenzy: …By Alan Peterson for TDPel Media. During their visit to Liverpool, where the Eurovision contest is being held this year, presenters Rylan Clark and Scott...
Rylan Clark cancels his Radio 2 show to be with his mother as she undergoes emergency surgery.: When Rylan Clark’s mother needs emergency surgery while they’re on vacation, he cancels his Radio 2 show and says a prayer for her.Author: Ellie Phillips...
“Rylan Clark’s New Show ‘Sex Rated’ Marks a Bold Career Move: Debut Episode Takes a Steamy Turn”: Rylan Clark’s Career Transition Rylan Clark warned fans it was the beginning of the end of his career as his new show made its debut...
Viewers Express Disappointment as Josie Gibson and Rylan Clark’s This Morning Stint Ends: Viewers Disheartened as Josie Gibson and Rylan Clark’s This Morning Tenure Concludes This Morning viewers have expressed their disappointment after tuning in to the ITV...
Dynamic Duo: Rylan Clark and Cat Deeley Take the Reins on This Morning: Unveiling the New Team: Rylan and Cat’s Debut Monday’s episode marked the debut of Rylan Clark and Cat Deeley as co-hosts on This Morning, and...
Repeat Offender Inflicts Serious Injury: Man with Fractured Eye Socket in Alleyway Attack: …By Alan Peterson for TDPel Media. In the village of Croeserw in June 2021, a man walking home from a shop experienced a brutal assault...
Sexual harassment, porn use, and homophobia were detected on Australian Antarctic installations: Women who work at Australian outposts in Antarctica are harassed for sex, exposed to pornographic jokes, and feel pressured to conceal their periods in order...
Prince Harry’s Swift UK Visit – A Glimpse Into the Fractured Royal Bonds: In a brief 24-hour transatlantic journey to visit his father, King Charles, recently diagnosed with cancer, Prince Harry encounters an apparent cold reception and faces...
Backlash Grows as X Users Denounce Zuma’s Homophobic Remarks, Vow to ‘Take Back’ Their Votes: In the wake of former President Zuma’s controversial homophobic remarks, a growing number of users, identified as X, have taken to social media platforms to...
Simon Cowell Resolves to Mend Fractured Relationship with Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh Amid Celebrity Big Brother Fallout: Simon Cowell has expressed his intention to reconcile with former colleagues Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh, emphasizing that they remain “really good friends.” Despite recent...