United Kingdom, March 26 -- Nathan Lane fears homophobia is "alive and well" in Hollywood.

'The Birdcage' star is convinced being open about his sexuality has has played a major part in shaping his career over the years because it left him open to discrimination and may have cost him jobs.

In an interview with Vanity Fair magazine, he explained: "I don't know what goes on behind closed doors, but I can't help but think that it [homophobia] played a part [in limiting oportunities].

"I was told it did impact a movie that I didn't really care about: 'Space Jam'. I was up for the part that the guy from 'Seinfeld' [Wayne Knight] wound up playing ...

"I was up for that part. Apparently the director [Joe Pytka] saw me hosting the Tony Awards...