QuintoWhyGay230.jpgStar Trek and Heroes star Zachary Quinto, 34, came out as a gay man on Sunday, and now the actor is explaining why.

Quinto writes on his blog that New York teenager Jamey Rodemeyer's suicide last month sparked his decision.

    "In light of jamey's death – it became clear to me in an instant that living a gay life without publicly acknowledging it – is simply not enough to make any significant contribution to the immense work that lies ahead on the road to complete equality ... it is my intention to live an authentic life of compassion and integrity and action. jamey rodemeyer's life changed mine."


Rodemeyer, 14, killed himself on Sept. 18 after being bullied by his classmates for being gay.