Long before he became known for his roles in Cruel Intentions, Studio 54, and Crash, Ryan Phillippe had a groundbreaking role on One Life to Live. He played Billy Douglas, a gay teenager. Admittedly, Philippe was hesitant about it, but he is grateful for this pivotal first gig.
Soap Opera Past
The former soap star appeared on OLTL from 1992 to 1993. His persona was Billy Douglas, who was the first gay teen on daytime television. Phillippe was only 17 when he tried out for the role. In an interview with PEOPLE, the Hollywood star recalled it being a “really profound experience” even though he had difficulty with it.
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“I was so young that there were elements of me that were afraid because it was such a different time,” Philippe explained. It was unheard of to see a gay character on a television show, especially on daytime television. Some people in his inner circle advised Philippe not to take the role.
“I think there were some fears associated with the point in time that we were at, and it being before so many walls and ceilings have been broken in that regard,” Philippe explained. “But I know that any fears that anyone had about me doing it immediately went away once I saw the reaction that it got from the people who viewed it.”
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Making An Impact
Phillippe made the right call by moving forward with the role. The feedback he received was “almost instantaneous, ” and it wasn’t what he expected. The actor received fan mail from kids and teens who had gone through similar situations. They were grateful to see someone like them on television.
“I’ve never seen someone represent me in any entertainment before in my life,” the letters read. Even parents were touched by the storyline. Some told Philippe that his character helped them connect with their child. Phillippe currently stars on the new drama Motorheads, which is available to stream on Amazon Prime.
