Actor Alexander Skarsgård has clarified recent speculation regarding his sexuality following comments made during the Zurich Film Festival in October 2025. While promoting his film “Pillion,” in which he portrays a biker involved in a BDSM relationship with a young man, Skarsgård mentioned having been with both men and women “in the past.” This statement led to widespread discussion about his sexual orientation.
In an interview with Variety published on Monday, Skarsgård addressed the implications of his earlier remarks. He stated, “That it resonated with my past? It was definitely not an intended statement.” He expressed uncertainty about what he had intended to convey, emphasizing that he did not mean to make a public declaration about his sexuality.
Skarsgård acknowledged the intense focus on his personal life as an actor, suggesting that his comments might have been an attempt to redirect attention back to the narrative of “Pillion” and the importance of its characters. “I found that in this case, it’s not really relevant what my background is,” he remarked. “I mean, I do have a kid, but what I’ve done in the past, who I’ve been with, men, women.”
The actor highlighted his desire to authentically portray a subculture that he feels has not been adequately represented in mainstream media. He noted the significance of the story being told, rather than his personal experiences.
Skarsgård, who welcomed a son in 2022 with Swedish actress Tuva Novotny, has generally maintained a private life regarding his relationships. His comments on fatherhood reflect a shift in his priorities. “I lived on the road. I love that aspect of the industry — you’re a traveling circus,” he explained regarding his life before becoming a parent. “But now, I need to balance that with family life and making sure I can be present for my kid. I can’t be as selfish and narcissistic as I was before.”
In a previous interview with Esquire, Skarsgård expressed gratitude for having a child later in life. He stated, “I’m glad that I didn’t have that responsibility when I started out and could just be selfish and throw myself into anything without taking other people’s needs and desires into consideration.” He added that his current situation allows him to make choices that benefit his family, emphasizing the need for balance between his career and personal life.
As Skarsgård continues to navigate his dual roles as a father and an actor, his comments resonate with many who understand the complexities of balancing personal and professional commitments. The conversation surrounding his sexuality, while initially sparked by his festival remarks, has shifted focus to his evolving priorities as a parent and storyteller.
