Listen, even at 86-years-old, Billy Dee Williams is still a sex symbol. He exudes a cool confidence that makes men and women weak in the knees. The actor’s had a long, fascinating career, and now he’s telling stories from his journey in the new memoir, “What Have We Here?: Portraits of A Life,” out Feb. 13.
“I’m thinking about legacy at this stage, 86 years old going on 87,” Williams told People. “I figured maybe I need to talk about a few things that might interest a few people. I’ve had a lot of very interesting experiences throughout the years.”
One such experience came when Dee was allegedly hit on by a Hollywood legend Marlon Brando. In the most badass statement ever, Williams explained, “I’ve been getting hit on all my life. Gay, straight, whatever, somebody’s always hitting on me.” If anyone else said this, we’d all be rolling our eyes, but from thee Billy Dee Williams, it’s totally acceptable.
As for Brando, the “Mahogany” star passed on the Oscar winner’s offer because, “I prefer women,” he said.
Back in 2019, Williams made headlines when he opened up to Esquire about his own gender fluidity and how he views his masculinity.
“I say ‘himself’ and ‘herself,’ because I also see myself as feminine as well as masculine,” Williams said. “I’m a very soft person. I’m not afraid to show that side of myself.”
This is an enlightened, modern approach to the subject. Let’s hope that the “Lady Sings the Blues” actor’s feelings on gender and sexual fluidity are something he discusses more in the book. We also have to assume that if he’s starting the promotional tour with this Marlon Brando story, there’s going to be even more shocking revelations to come.
“What Have We Here?: Portraits of A Life” will be released Feb. 13.