How I Library Episode 23: George Takei
Oct 11, 2025
George Takei, renowned actor and LGBTQ activist, discusses his new graphic novel, "It Rhymes with Takei," which chronicles his journey from a Japanese-American internment camp to a prominent social advocate. He candidly shares the challenges of hiding his sexuality in Hollywood and the liberation he felt after coming out. Takei reflects on the progressive vision of Star Trek and its missed opportunities for LGBTQ representation. He also recounts his love story with Brad, highlighting the importance of marriage equality and libraries in his life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Books, Radio, And Comics Sparked Acting
- George recounts discovering movies and comics after internment and how they opened new worlds.
- He credits early exposure to radio and comics for sparking his passion for acting and voice work.
Living In The Closet To Survive
- George hid his sexuality to protect his acting career and avoid bullying at school.
- He mimicked other boys and dated girls despite being attracted to men to survive socially and professionally.
Democracy Vulnerable To Hysteria
- George notes American democracy's ideals can be undermined by mass hysteria and human fallibility.
- He connects wartime hysteria to the internment of Japanese Americans as a cautionary lesson.
