Gillian Anderson is speaking more openly about her sexuality, saying she now identifies as pansexual.
The 58-year-old actress told The Australian that her relationship history includes both women and men.
“In my younger years, I was in relationships with women,” said Anderson, adding that she is currently with a man.
The X-Files alum also discussed how her understanding of sex, attraction and desire has evolved over the years.
“I’m not a big flirter. I don’t put it out there very much,” she explained. Still, Anderson said she has noticed women her age becoming more comfortable pursuing what they want. “I do hear of a lot of women around our age who are rediscovering their sensuality and their desire for sex.”
Anderson credits some of her own openness to playing Jean Milburn, the sex therapist at the center of Netflix’s Sex Education.
“It all came from that character.”
Her comments come as she prepares to release More: Sexual Fantasies by Anonymous on September 15. The book follows her 2024 collection Want and again gathers anonymous submissions from women about their desires. Anderson said many of the stories reveal a longing “for tenderness” and for people to feel wanted exactly as they are.
“It’s a complex and very confusing world out there,” she continued.
“I’m so grateful for the courage and honesty. It feels like a real honor to be entrusted with these pieces.”