A Metal Icon on Coming Out

Rocker Rob Halford said his coming out 12 years ago on MTV proved how tolerant metal fans can be, despite what could be perceived by some as an intimidating demeanor.

"What I think I have done is destroy the myth that heavy metal bands don't have that capacity," he told the San Diego Gay and Lesbian News. "It's a different world now. Heavy metal now is a completely different world compared to heavy metal in 1980. The gay and lesbian world is very different now as it was in 1980. We have all grown to some extent. There is still a long way to go. There are still a lot of issues that need to be addressed, but I think slowly but surely our lives are getting better."

Halford, who was a member of iconic metal band Judas Priest, also is touring with his own band, Halford. The band's new album, IV: Made of Metal, was released in October.

Click here for the full interview.