Anne Hathaway Chooses Her Gay Brother Over Catholicism

International News, By Christian Taylor, 10th February, 2010

Anne Hathaway, star of The Princess Diaries and more recently Bride Wars, told British GQ that her family left the Catholic Church because of its intolerant, outdated views on homosexuality.

According to the article, Anne wanted to be a nun when she grew up, but when her brother Michael later came out as gay, she changed her mind.

“The whole family converted to Episcopalianism after my elder brother came out,” said Hathaway. “Why should I support an organization that has a limited view of my beloved brother?”

The Episcopal Church has played a leading role in the progressive movement and on related political issues. In the past they have opposed the death penalty, and supported the civil rights movement and affirmative action. The church calls for the full civil equality of gay men and lesbians. Most dioceses ordain openly gay men and women; in some, same-sex unions are celebrated with services of blessing. In 2009, the church’s General Convention passed resolutions that allowed for gay and lesbian marriages in states where it is legal.

Despite the organisation’s more liberal views, Hathaway says that the Episcopal church didn’t work for her either.

“So I’m … nothing… I’m a work in progress,” she said.

Last year it was announced that Hathaway would play Judy Garland in Get Happy, a stage and a screen production, both being produced by the Weinstein Company.