Lee Pace, whose full name is Lee Grinner Pace, is an accomplished American actor, born on March 25, 1979. With a commanding on-screen presence and versatility, he has garnered acclaim in film, television, and theater. Pace rose to prominence with his portrayal of Ned in the quirky TV series “Pushing Daisies,” earning a Golden Globe nomination for his remarkable performance. He further showcased his talent with notable roles in blockbuster films like “The Hobbit” trilogy, where he played the Elvenking Thranduil, and as Ronan the Accuser in “Guardians of the Galaxy.”
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Beyond his cinematic achievements, Pace has earned praise for his contributions to the stage, appearing in numerous plays on Broadway. His charismatic presence, chameleon-like ability to embody diverse characters, and captivating performances have solidified his status as one of the industry’s most celebrated actors.
There had been rumors about the actor’s sexual orientation, probably because of his private nature regarding his personal life and the absence of publicized romantic relationships. So, is Lee Pace gay? Let’s get to know him better for the answer.
VOTE: What is Lee Pace’s Sexuality?
Lee Pace’s Sexuality
Lee Pace has always been extremely tight-lipped about his personal life and romantic relationships. However, in 2018, The Hobbit actor opened up about his sexuality for the first time, addressing long-standing gay rumors about him. In an interview with W Magazine, the actor refused to label himself.
I’ve dated men, I’ve dated women. I don’t know why anyone would care. I’m an actor and I play roles. To be honest, I don’t know what to say – I find your question intrusive.”
Lee Pace told W Magazine in a 2018 interview
Our understanding of what it means to be gay is just so different. It’s culturally different. It’s just so much further down the road. It’s an interesting thing for me to think about in this moment while working on this play.”
he added
Lee Pace’s statements caused a stir on the internet, making headlines. He later went to Twitter to clarify that he identifies as a “member of the queer community,” making his stance more evident.
In a recent phone interview, I was asked questions that I wasn’t expecting and found myself momentarily at a loss for the right words.”
Lee Pace posted on Twitter
My privacy is important to me, so I protect it. When interviewed by the media, I keep the focus on my work. As a member of the queer community, I understand the importance of living openly, being counted, and happily owning who I am.”
he clarified
That’s how I’ve always lived my life just as it’s been important to me to portray queer characters with dignity for my entire career: A Soldier’s Girl (Showtime. 2003). The Normal Heart (Broadway. 2011). Halt and Catch Fire (AMC. 2014-2017). Angels in America. (Broadway. NOW.) Onward, with Pride.”
he added
That somehow put an end to the long-standing speculations about his sexuality, confirming that he does indeed identify himself as queer.
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Lee Pace’s Relationships
Just last year, in 2022, the star of “Guardians of the Galaxy” revealed that he is now married to his longtime partner, Matthew Foley, who serves as Thom Browne’s Vice President of Communications.
In an interview with GQ Hype, the actor described his married life as “an endless sleepover with your weirdest friend.”
When asked if they wanted to have children, he replied:
I’d love to have kids. I think there’s nothing better than little kids running around.”
The couple is known to have started going out in 2017. Recently, they revealed that they had secretly gotten hitched, though details about the wedding were kept private.
Before dating Fowley, Pace was in a relationship with his “Pushing Daisies” co-star Anna Friel. They were together from March 2006 to June 2007.
Lee Pace was also rumored to have dated James Calleri from 2002 to 2005, Jason Moore from 2005 to 2006, Carter Smith from 2011 to 2015, Richard Armitage in 2012, and Laura Donnelly from 2015 to 2016.
Is Lee Pace Gay?
Yes, Lee Pace is openly gay, or bisexual, as he admitted to dating both women and men in a 2018 interview. He also recently revealed that he secretly married his long-term boyfriend, Matthew Foley, whom he has been with since 2017.