Alexander Skarsgård sets record straight after sexuality speculation

Swedish actor Alexander Skarsgård has addressed a wave of speculation about his sexuality after casual remarks during promotion for his new film Pillion sent social media into a frenzy.

The 49-year-old, also known for roles in True Blood and Big Little Lies, found himself at the centre of online debate after a remark about his past during a press event at the Zurich Film Festival last autumn. When asked about his connection to his character — a biker engaged in a same-sex relationship in the BDSM-themed drama - Skarsgård referenced his past, mentioning that he had “been with men, women …” which many fans interpreted as him coming out as bisexual. 

In a new interview with Variety, however, the actor has clarified that the comment was not intended as a revelation about his personal life. Skarsgård told the magazine he was surprised by how his words were taken and stressed that his focus had been on the film and its characters rather than on himself. “That it resonated with my past? It was definitely not an intended statement,” he said, adding that he had been trying to shift attention to the authenticity of Pillion’s portrayal of subculture rather than on his own experiences. 

The clarification comes after several months of online discussion, fan theories, and headlines questioning whether the actor had quietly come out. Skarsgård’s role in Pillion - which explores themes of dominance, submission and queer identity - and his promotional appearances, including distinctive fashion choices, contributed to heightened interest in his personal views on sexuality. 

Skarsgård also spoke more broadly about how his priorities have shifted in recent years. Now a father with Swedish actress Tuva Novotny, he said he has become more grounded and focused on family life, contrasting with his previously “nomadic” work routines.