Olivia Colman Opens Up About Feeling 'Nonbinary' Throughout Life

The acclaimed actress discusses her personal connection to LGBTQ+ stories and themes of gender identity.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Olivia Colman, known for her acclaimed acting roles, has opened up about her personal experience with gender identity, stating that she has 'always felt sort of nonbinary' throughout her life. In a recent interview, Colman discussed her role in the new film 'Jimpa,' where she plays the parent of a nonbinary child, and how she feels a deep connection to the LGBTQ+ community and their stories. The actress, who is married to actor Ed Sinclair, also shared that she has often described herself to her husband as a 'gay man,' highlighting her fluid sense of gender identity.

Why it matters

Colman's openness about her gender identity and her connection to LGBTQ+ stories and themes is significant, as it helps to further normalize and destigmatize discussions around gender fluidity and nonbinary identities. Her comments also underscore the importance of representation and the impact that stories centered on LGBTQ+ characters and experiences can have, both for the community and the general public.

The details

In the interview with Them, Colman discussed her role in the film 'Jimpa,' where she plays the parent of a nonbinary child. She expressed feeling 'really honored to be welcomed' into the LGBTQ+ community and the stories they tell. Colman also revealed that she has 'always felt sort of nonbinary' and has often described herself to her husband as a 'gay man,' despite being a cisgender woman. The film's director, Sophie Hyde, agreed with Colman's sentiments, stating that the idea of gender binaries is 'problematic for many of us' and that 'it's like, how can you fit? There are problems sometimes.' Colman further elaborated on this, saying that gender binaries also 'limit men' in terms of the 'expectation they have to live up to.'

  • Colman's interview with Them took place in January 2026 at the Sundance Film Festival.

The players

Olivia Colman

An acclaimed British actress known for her roles in films and television shows such as 'The Favourite,' 'The Crown,' and 'Fleabag.' She has openly discussed her personal connection to LGBTQ+ stories and themes of gender identity.

Sophie Hyde

The director of the film 'Jimpa,' in which Colman plays the parent of a nonbinary child. Hyde agrees with Colman's views on the problematic nature of gender binaries.

Ed Sinclair

Colman's husband, an actor, with whom she has discussed her fluid sense of gender identity.

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What they’re saying

“I find the most loving and the most beautiful stories are from that community. And I feel really honored to be welcomed.”

— Olivia Colman, Actress (Them)

“The idea of being a woman or womanhood. It doesn't necessarily fit for all of us. I think these binaries of gender are problematic for many of us. It's like, how can you fit? There are problems sometimes.”

— Sophie Hyde, Director of 'Jimpa' (Them)

“And men are limited, too, in that — in the expectation they have to live up to. I think with my husband and I, we take turns to be the 'strong one,' or the one who needs a little bit of gentleness. I believe everyone has all of it in them. I've always felt like that.”

— Olivia Colman, Actress (Them)

What’s next

Colman's comments on her gender identity and her role in 'Jimpa' are expected to generate further discussion and awareness around LGBTQ+ representation in the entertainment industry.

The takeaway

Olivia Colman's openness about her personal experience with gender identity and her connection to LGBTQ+ stories highlights the importance of representation and the need to challenge traditional gender binaries. Her comments serve as a powerful reminder that gender identity exists on a spectrum, and that embracing fluidity and inclusivity can lead to more authentic and meaningful storytelling.