Doogie Howser finally out of the closet

By Stone Martindale Nov 4, 2006, 15:34 GMT

People magazine ran a statement from Neil Patrick Harris who finally quashed rumors and reveresed his earlier denial of his homosexuality:  "(I) am quite proud to say that I am a very content gay man living my life to the fullest."

Defamer.com and other gossip blogs had already seized on the topic, "outing" the actor.

Blogger Perez Hilton, who is openly gay, says Harris' coming out is a victory. "We are so proud (despite the naysayers) in having a hand in bringing about change," writes the self-defined "Queen Of All Media."

The 33-year-old who played Doogie Howser, MD said he was motivated to disclose his sexuality because of recent “speculation and interest in my private life and relationships.” The How I Met Your Mother star happily confirmed that he is gay, just days after his publicist issued a release saying the actor is "not of that persuasion."

"The public eye has always been kind to me and until recently I have been able to live a pretty normal life," Harris told People magaqzine.  "Rather than ignore those who choose to publish their opinions without actually talking to me, I am happy to dispel any rumors or misconceptions."

Harris follows a trend of celebrity outings, similar to 'N Sync member Lance Bass.

The Albuquerque, New Mexico native is best known for his TV roles as the teenage doctor Doogie Howser, M.D. and recently in Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, in which he played an ecstasy tripping, horny parody of himself.

The CBS sitcom How I Met Your Mother debuted in the fall of 2005 and has been renewed for a second season beginning in the Fall of 2006.