George Takei has criticised Arnold Schwarzenegger for vetoing bills that would have legalised same-sex marriage.

In a new interview, the Star Trek actor said Schwarzenegger’s actions were what prompted him to publicly come out as gay in 2005.

Takei, who was 68 at the time, revealed he had been in a relationship with his husband Brad Altman for 18 years.

“Why did it take me so long to come out? Because I’m an actor and I wanted to work,” Takei told The Stage.

He continued: “Why did I come out when I did? Because Schwarzenegger presented himself as a movie star who had worked and was friends with gays and lesbians, many of whom voted for him, but then vetoed that bill.

“I was so angry that I spoke to the press for the first time as a gay man at the age of 68.”

Takei’s announcement was published in Californian magazine,...