Very valid points, Orion, and of course I wouldn't suggest that there shouldn't be gay role models. I'm just saying that if a person wants to have a life that isn't under a microscope, he should be able to.
And yes, if Prince Chas wanted to leave public life, I imagine he could give it a try, but I doubt he'd get very far. Opinion of governmental officials is very different from what it was when Edward abdicated to marry Wallis Simpson. Back then, the royal family commanded some respect. Today, the tabloids will publish any bit of gossip they can find, so long as it sells papers. If Charles announced that he would pass up the chance to wear the crown and go live as an ordinary citizen, I'm certain he'd still have papparazzi following his every move, and his face would still be on the covers of the tabloids.
As for my own sessuality (as Jack would call it), I enjoy my lack of celebrity and the privacy it ensures. :^) I will say, however, that I have enormous respect for the gay celebrities who have risked their careers to be honest about their private lives. Considering all the homophobia that somehow still remains in society, it's a dangerous move, and I'm glad that many actors have continued successfully since coming out.
I still look forward to the day when no one cares about other people's sex lives, and all of us, Princes and paupers alike, can live with whomever we love.
"I hate musicals... People don't sing in real life."
"Well, maybe they should."
--Kiss of the Spider Woman (cut line)