GAY DOCTORS? What is this world coming to . . . .

Television gets a dose of gay doctors

Neil Patrick Harris cut off speculation about his sexuality over the weekend, stating "I am a very content gay man living my life to the fullest."
When Neil Patrick Harris announced to People magazine Friday that he is "a very content gay man," he joined other TV docs who have come out of the closet in real life. USA TODAY notes the actors' declarations.

Neil Patrick Harris
On-call role: Harris played the lead on Doogie Howser, M.D. from 1989-93. Dr. Doogie was a normal teenager at home, stressing over puberty and girls, while balancing life as a medical whiz kid in a residency program at Eastman Medical Center.
Actor's announcement: "It seems there is speculation and interest in my private life and relationships. So, rather than ignore those who choose to publish their opinions without actually talking to me, I am happy to dispel any rumors or misconceptions and am quite proud to say that I am a very content gay man living my life to the fullest and feel most fortunate to be working with wonderful people in the business I love."

T.R. Knight
On-call role: Knight plays George O'Malley on Grey's Anatomy (ABC, Thursdays, 9 p.m. ET/PT). Seattle Grace Hospital's compassionate medical intern O'Malley has been lovesick over colleague Meredith Grey while pursuing a relationship with orthopedic surgeon Callie Torres.
Actor's announcement: "I guess there have been a few questions about my sexuality, and I'd like to quiet any unnecessary rumors that may be out there. While I prefer to keep my personal life private, I hope the fact that I'm gay isn't the most interesting part of me," Knight said to People Oct. 19.

Richard Chamberlain
On-call role: Chamberlain was the title character on Dr. Kildare, which aired from 1961-66. The dreamy doc was a specialist in internal medicine and at breaking women's hearts.
Actor's announcement: "I'm not afraid anymore. I'm not a romantic leading man anymore, so I don't need to nurture that public image. ... When I grew up, being gay, being a sissy or anything like that, was verboten. I disliked myself intensely and feared this part of myself intensely and had to hide it. ... I love my life just the way it is. I'm proud of my relationship. I'm actually proud of myself," the actor told Dateline NBC in June 2003.

In the Spirit of togetherness . . . .

The QBD admits it!

I'm gay!

SURPRISE!