Game of Thrones actor Kristian Nairn, has spoken publicly about his sexuality for the first time, in a recent interview with a Game of Thrones fansite.

The subject of the gay community came up when the Winter Is Coming interviewer asked Nairn about how he felt about having a large “bear” following. Nairn responded, “Well, in all honesty, when you talk about ‘the gay community,’ you are talking about MY community.”

“I am aware of [the bear following] yeah, and I think it’s really lovely. There’s not a day that I don’t get a few messages, but 99 percent or more are super sweet and nothing smutty at all! Again, it’s a privilege, and I really mean that.”

The Belfast actor, who plays the role of Hodor in the HBO series, added, “I’ve never hidden my sexuality from anyone, my whole life in fact, and I’ve been waiting for someone to ask about it in an interview, ’cause it’s not something you just blurt out.”

“I’ve tried to lead the questions a few times, to no avail!”

Talking about his decision to speak about his sexuality, he said, “It’s a very small part of who I am on the whole, but nonetheless, in this day and age, it’s important to stand up and be counted. I have and always will stand my ground.”

Well done, Kristian!