PALM SPRINGS, Calif. — Actor Matt Bomer, best known for his starring role in the USA Network series “White Collar,” has come out as gay.

While accepting an award at the Desert AIDS Project’s Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards in Palm Springs, Bomer acknowledged that he is gay by giving a special shout-out to his longtime partner, Hollywood publicist Simon Halls, and their three children, reported E Online.

“I’d really especially like to thank my beautiful family: Simon, Kit, Walker, Henry,” Bomer said during the gala at the Palm Springs Convention Center, where he was honored with the New Generation Arts and Activism Award for his work in the fight against HIV.

“Thank you for teaching me what unconditional love is. You will always be my proudest accomplishment. God bless you.”

Bomer, 34, has previously declined comment when asked about his personal life.

In a 2010 interview with Details magazine, Bomer was asked if he cared about the rumors questioning if he was gay — he responded, “I don’t care about that at all. I’m completely happy and fulfilled in my personal life.”

Bomer has publicly supported many gay causes including the Trevor Project and GLSEN.