Iconic skateboarder Brian Anderson comes out as gay

Brain Anderson, the legendary skateboarder who hit the scene in 90s and slayed everyone with his daring and groundbreaking tricks, has come out as gay.

He spoke about his sexuality in the latest installment of Vice Sports’ Reda for the World with Giovanni Reda.

Anderson turned pro around August 1998, and a year later was named Thrasher’s Skater of the Year. At 40, he’s still riding, and has sponsorships with Spitfire wheels and Nike. (his signature Nike SB shoe launched in 2013.)

Brain says that carrying the burden of his sexuality may have pushed him to take more risks on the board.

“A part of me was so irritated and angry from holding that in so it made me more of an animal on my skateboard.”

Check out the full video where you’ll see Brian share his story, and hear from colleagues and friends who stand with Brian.