Former Emmerdale star Alexander Lincoln has opened up about his sexuality after accidentally coming out on Instagram.
The actor, who played Jamie Tate in the ITV hit soap, admitted he surprised himself when he revealed to fans that he 'isn't straight'.
After leaving Emmerdale, Alexander starred in new independent film In From the Side, which tells the story of a queer rugby team.
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Since then the star has been questioned about his sexuality and admitted he didn't expect the international interest his comment made.
Speaking to Attitude magazine, he said: "It's one of those things, I often don't think about what I'm saying half the time. You say something in passing.
"I don't like to be mysterious and vague about things. I don't like to make people think I'm presenting myself in a way I shouldn't be. So I felt this obligation to say something about it. Which I don't regret. But [suddenly] it's everywhere."
Clarifying his 'not straight' comment, Alexander added: "I think the bottom line of what I want to convey is: I've been with women and I've been with men, and I don't prescribe to a label because I've never felt that that definition has offered me any clarity.
"And to be honest, I'm not sure any clarity is necessary. I like who I like in the moment or over the course of a relationship and that's all it is, really.
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"And had I seen people in the public eye wording things in the same way that I felt, I would have felt so much more confident with myself, and with everything. So that's why (speaking) is so important - it's a conversation."
Alexander also opened up about how he came out to his parents.
He added: "I took my mum and my dad to see An American in Paris years ago. Just before the show started I went, 'By the way...'"
Emmerdale fans may one day get their wish and see Jamie Tate return to the ITV soap. Speaking to The Sun, Alexander revealed there have been talks about an Emmerdale return.
Asked if Emmerdale bosses want him back, Alexander, 29, said: "Yes definitely, it's a conversation that I've had quite a few times. At the moment I'm quite enjoying this vibe and writing, so we'll see what happens in the future."
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