United Kingdom, June 10 -- George Takei found coming out to be "liberating".

The 88-year-old actor came out as gay two decades ago, when he was 68, and George now admits that it was a freeing experience.

The former Star Trek actor told USA Today: "It feels very liberating.

"I don't have to be on my guard, kind of mentally fencing and saying what I want to say but without giving myself away. I developed that skill, but now I don't need to. I can be candid and forthright."

George had actually been with Brad Altman - whom he married in 2008 - for two decades before he came out. However, the decision to discuss his sexuality publicly helped to lift a weight off his shoulders.

He shared: "Here I am protecting my job, my career, what I wan...