Jodie Foster Addresses Confusion Over Golden Globes ‘Coming Out’ Claim

Jodie Foster Reflects on Her 2013 Golden Globes Speech

Jodie Foster, known for her iconic role as "Nell," has recently opened up about her 2013 speech at the Golden Globes. The actress addressed her former partner, Cydney Bernard, in a way that sparked widespread speculation about her sexual orientation. In a new interview, Foster admitted that she anticipated her remarks would be "chopped up and misinterpreted."

Key Points from the Speech

During the 2013 ceremony, Foster received the Cecil B. DeMille Award. In her speech, she thanked Cydney Bernard, describing her as "one of the deepest loves of my life" and "my ex-partner in love but righteous soul sister in life." Foster also mentioned that she had already come out "about a thousand years ago back in the Stone Age."

Despite not explicitly stating her sexuality, Foster’s speech led to many interpretations. She humorously introduced the speech by saying, "I have a sudden urge to say something that I’ve never really been able to air in public." She then declared herself "loud and proud" before revealing, "I am single."

The Reasoning Behind the Speech

Foster explained that she wanted the speech to be "so literary" because she knew it would be taken out of context. She emphasized the importance of preserving her voice and ensuring that her message was clear.

Additionally, Foster wanted the speech to serve as a snapshot of herself at 50. She hoped that "20 years from now, my kids will go back" to witness her during that period of her life.

Balancing Privacy and Public Life

Foster’s speech also touched on the tension between celebrity and privacy. She commented on the expectation for celebrities to share every detail of their private lives. "I’m told, apparently, that every celebrity is expected to honor the details of their private life with a press conference, a fragrance and a prime-time reality show," she said.

She continued, "You know, you guys might be surprised, but I am not Honey Boo Boo Child. No, I’m sorry, that’s just not me. It never was and it never will be. Please don’t cry because my reality show would be so boring."

Foster added, "But seriously, if you had been a public figure from the time that you were a toddler, if you’d had to fight for a life that felt real and honest and normal against all odds, then maybe you too might value privacy above all else. Privacy."

Personal Life and Future Projects

Foster and Bernard dated from 1993 until 2009, welcoming two sons, Charlie and Kit. After their relationship ended, Foster married photographer Alexandra Hedison in 2014.

Foster is set to appear in the French-language thriller A Private Life, which will be released in theaters on January 16. The 2026 Golden Globes ceremony is scheduled to air tonight at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on CBS and Paramount+.