Believe it or not, I actually discussed this very question with Eddie himself, after I saw him in a play in Manhattan.
First of all, Eddie came out in England, just as he was gaining acceptance as a comedian. Although England is far more tolerant of CDs, Eddie did make a very brave decision in coming out as a CD on his own terms, rather than be outed by the press.
He himself says that his attitude about his CDing greatly affects those around him, including an audience. By being positive and RELAXED AND GROOVY, he sets the tone. Almost always, if he is relaxed, then those around him become relaxed, too.
What he and I discussed most was how difficult it is here in the states for him to get it across to producers (for his strong desire to be an actor and get serious roles rather than comedic ones) to see him as an ACTOR rather than a CHARACTER. I guess that's why Eddie sports a beard now-a-days and hasn't been seen out en femme in a few years.
Some accuse Eddie of selling out his femme side to be an actor, but I believe he regards it as the usual ebb and flow of life.
In any case, Eddie has always encouraged others in Hollywood to come out as CD. He himself, even in his recent DRAB stage, will easily and confidently talk about the fact that his is a CD on any chat show or in any interview. 'That's my sexuality, man!'
P.S. In person, Eddie has the bluest eyes and he smells good, too. :D
