The Most Influential LGBTQ+ Actors of All Time

From trailblazing legends who shifted public attitudes to contemporary stars redefining representation on screen, these men have changed entertainment and culture in meaningful, lasting ways. Their careers span film, television, and theater, and many have used their platforms to advocate for equality, visibility, and better roles for LGBTQ+ performers. Here are 40 influential LGBTQ+ actors whose work and impact continue to resonate.

Ian McKellen

A titan of stage and screen, Sir Ian McKellen is celebrated for roles ranging from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ to ‘X-Men’. He co-founded Stonewall UK, helping drive legal and social progress for LGBTQ+ people. His public coming out and sustained advocacy opened doors for future generations of actors. McKellen’s career demonstrates that being out and being bankable can go hand in hand.

John Gielgud

One of the 20th century’s greatest classical actors, Sir John Gielgud brought Shakespeare to global audiences through stage and screen. His long career included acclaimed film work such as ‘Arthur’. Gielgud’s stature proved that a gay man could be revered within the most traditional corners of the arts. His legacy influenced how the industry treats LGBTQ+ performers in prestigious roles.

Rock Hudson

Rock Hudson was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, known for romantic comedies and dramas such as ‘Giant’. His death from AIDS complications brought unprecedented attention to the epidemic and shifted media coverage toward empathy and urgency. That visibility changed public conversations around health, stigma, and LGBTQ+ lives. Hudson’s story remains a milestone in film and social history.

Montgomery Clift

Montgomery Clift pioneered a more naturalistic, vulnerable screen acting style that inspired generations. He delivered landmark performances in films like ‘A Place in the Sun’ and ‘From Here to Eternity’. Clift’s life and work complicated mid-century ideas of masculinity on screen. His influence can be felt in later method and character actors who blend sensitivity with star presence.

Anthony Perkins

Best known for ‘Psycho’, Anthony Perkins created one of cinema’s most enduring characters. Behind the scenes, his guarded private life reflected the pressures LGBTQ+ actors faced in mid-century Hollywood. His nuanced performances influenced thriller and horror storytelling for decades. Perkins’ career highlights how queer artists shaped major genres while navigating restrictive studio systems.

Derek Jacobi

A master of Shakespeare and historical drama, Sir Derek Jacobi has led acclaimed productions and starred in screen hits like ‘I, Claudius’. He has been open about his sexuality and long-term partnership, modeling visibility for fellow actors. Jacobi’s honors and longevity underscore that openness and excellence can coexist at the highest level. His mentorship and body of work continue to elevate classical performance on screen.

Rupert Everett

Rupert Everett broke out with ‘Another Country’ and later reached global audiences with ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He spoke candidly about the career costs of being openly gay, helping expose industry biases. Everett also authored memoirs that detail the realities of fame, sexuality, and typecasting. His frankness strengthened calls for better representation and fair casting.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris reinvented his screen persona with ‘How I Met Your Mother’ and led high-profile projects like ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’. His widely watched hosting gigs and awards success normalized an openly gay actor as a mainstream emcee and star. Harris’s career spans comedy, drama, and Broadway, showcasing range and staying power. He has also supported numerous LGBTQ+ charities and causes.

Jim Parsons

Jim Parsons became a household name through ‘The Big Bang Theory’, one of television’s most-watched comedies. After coming out publicly, he continued to lead major projects on stage and screen. Parsons has produced and starred in LGBTQ+ narratives, including ‘The Boys in the Band’. His visibility and production work have helped expand queer stories in commercial entertainment.

Zachary Quinto

Zachary Quinto reached global fame with ‘Star Trek’ and ‘Heroes’ while speaking openly about LGBTQ+ issues. He has balanced franchise work with independent films and theater, backing projects with inclusive storytelling. Quinto’s production efforts and advocacy highlight the power of creative control. His career path illustrates how out actors can thrive in genre and prestige spaces alike.

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer earned acclaim in ‘White Collar’ and later won awards recognition for projects like ‘The Normal Heart’. After coming out, he continued to land leading roles in film and television. Bomer supports LGBTQ+ youth and health initiatives, using visibility for impact. His trajectory counters myths that out actors cannot anchor mainstream series or films.

Andrew Scott

Andrew Scott’s breakout as the “Hot Priest” in ‘Fleabag’ followed a celebrated turn in ‘Sherlock’. He has championed complex queer characters in drama and romance, including ‘All of Us Strangers’. Scott’s choices emphasize layered storytelling over stereotypes. His work has broadened how mainstream audiences understand LGBTQ+ intimacy and emotional depth on screen.

Ben Whishaw

Ben Whishaw brings understated intensity to roles from ‘Skyfall’ to ‘A Very English Scandal’. He has spoken about privacy while still acknowledging his sexuality, helping normalize multiple ways of being out. Whishaw consistently takes on nuanced LGBTQ+ narratives without limiting his range. His career shows how craft and care can shift public expectations of queer representation.

Luke Evans

Luke Evans moved from West End stages to major films like ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’. He has maintained an open stance about his sexuality while leading action, fantasy, and romance projects. Evans’s success challenges assumptions about casting openly gay men in traditionally “masculine” roles. His visibility in global franchises has widened the scope of who gets to be a blockbuster star.

Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey became internationally known through ‘Bridgerton’ while already acclaimed in theater. He speaks openly about industry pressures and the importance of authenticity for LGBTQ+ performers. Bailey’s leading-man status in a period romance reframed expectations around queer actors in mainstream heartthrob roles. His advocacy and profile have made him a key voice for inclusive casting.

Billy Porter

Billy Porter earned a Tony for ‘Kinky Boots’ and a Primetime Emmy for ‘Pose’, achieving awards history along the way. He uses fashion, music, and advocacy to champion LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. Porter’s work foregrounds Black queer experiences in popular culture. His cross-disciplinary presence has expanded what stardom and activism can look like.

Alan Cumming

Alan Cumming’s screen credits span ‘The Good Wife’ to ‘Spy Kids’, alongside influential stage work. He has been open about his bisexuality and has authored memoirs that discuss identity and mental health. Cumming frequently collaborates on projects that center queer perspectives. His multihyphenate career exemplifies longevity, reinvention, and outspoken advocacy.

George Takei

George Takei’s ‘Star Trek’ legacy anchors a second act as a leading LGBTQ+ and civil-rights advocate. He has produced and performed in works that address internment, immigration, and equality. Takei’s prolific social media presence educates audiences about history and current issues. His influence bridges fandom and activism in a uniquely effective way.

BD Wong

BD Wong won a Tony for ‘M. Butterfly’ and became widely known on TV in ‘Law & Order: SVU’ and ‘Mr. Robot’. He has spoken about fatherhood, representation, and the challenges facing Asian American LGBTQ+ artists. Wong’s roles push for complexity beyond stereotypes in both drama and genre projects. His career helped expand opportunities at the intersection of race and sexuality.

Wilson Cruz

Wilson Cruz made history on ‘My So-Called Life’ as one of TV’s first openly gay Latino teens. He continues to advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and portrays a groundbreaking relationship on ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. Cruz works with organizations focused on health, homelessness, and inclusive storytelling. His sustained visibility has paved the way for more intersectional representation.

Elliot Page

Elliot Page earned early acclaim with ‘Juno’ and later led the ensemble of ‘The Umbrella Academy’. After publicly coming out as a trans man, he became one of the most visible trans actors in the world. Page’s advocacy addresses healthcare, sports inclusion, and trans rights globally. His continued leading roles demonstrate industry progress and the importance of authentic casting.

Victor Garber

Victor Garber’s film and TV work ranges from ‘Titanic’ to ‘Alias’, complemented by extensive stage credits. He has long supported LGBTQ+ causes and has been open about his marriage. Garber’s steady presence in major projects underscores the normalization of out actors in every genre. His mentorship and professionalism make him a respected figure across mediums.

Joel Grey

Joel Grey, known worldwide for ‘Cabaret’, came out publicly later in life. His career spans film, television, and directing, illustrating wide-ranging artistry. Grey’s visibility reinforces that it is never too late to live authentically in the public eye. His achievements continue to influence musical and screen performers alike.

Richard Chamberlain

Richard Chamberlain became a television icon through ‘Dr. Kildare’ and later starred in epics like ‘The Thorn Birds’. He discussed the pressures of the studio era and his eventual coming out in memoirs and interviews. Chamberlain’s journey reflects shifting attitudes toward LGBTQ+ identities in Hollywood over decades. His work helped redefine the TV leading man.

Cheyenne Jackson

Cheyenne Jackson has balanced film and TV credits like ‘American Horror Story’ and ’30 Rock’ with a robust stage career. He has been open about sobriety, family, and advocacy, partnering with organizations focused on health and equality. Jackson’s versatility spans comedy, horror, and musical performance. His ongoing visibility supports broader, more varied roles for LGBTQ+ men on screen.

Nathan Lane

Nathan Lane earned major recognition on stage and screen with roles in ‘The Producers’, ‘The Birdcage’, and ‘Only Murders in the Building’. He publicly discussed the challenges of coming out while maintaining a high-profile career. Lane has supported LGBTQ+ organizations and participated in public conversations about representation. His extensive film, TV, and theater credits demonstrate sustained visibility for openly gay actors across mainstream projects.

Harvey Fierstein

Harvey Fierstein is a Tony-winning actor and writer known for ‘Torch Song Trilogy’ and ‘Hairspray’. He has been openly gay for decades and has advocated for LGBTQ+ rights in media and public forums. Fierstein’s memoir and interviews document industry changes affecting queer performers. His stage and screen work expanded opportunities for LGBTQ+ narratives and performers.

Colman Domingo

Colman Domingo’s body of work spans ‘Euphoria’, ‘Fear the Walking Dead’, and acclaimed films and plays. He has discussed his experiences as a gay, Black man in entertainment and supports community initiatives. Domingo writes, directs, and produces, helping develop stories with inclusive casts and themes. His awards recognition increased visibility for LGBTQ+ actors in prestige drama.

Jonathan Groff

Jonathan Groff is known for ‘Hamilton’, ‘Glee’, and ‘Mindhunter’, as well as leading roles on Broadway. He came out early in his career and has continued to headline major productions. Groff participates in LGBTQ+ fundraising and educational outreach. His crossover success in stage, television, and animation illustrates broad opportunities for out actors.

Murray Bartlett

Murray Bartlett gained wide attention with ‘The White Lotus’ and has longstanding credits including ‘Looking’ and ‘Physical’. He has spoken about authenticity and the importance of complex queer roles. Bartlett’s performances have received industry awards and nominations. His work highlights the growth of LGBTQ+ storytelling in premium television.

John Barrowman

John Barrowman reached international audiences through ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Torchwood’, performing as Captain Jack Harkness. He has released albums, written memoirs, and appeared on stage in major musicals. Barrowman has been openly gay for his entire mainstream career and supports equality initiatives. His cross-media presence brought a pansexual sci-fi hero into the mainstream conversation.

Jesse Tyler Ferguson

Jesse Tyler Ferguson became widely known for ‘Modern Family’, continuing to work in theater and advocacy. He co-founded Tie The Knot to support LGBTQ+ civil rights causes through fundraising and design collaborations. Ferguson uses his platform for voter engagement and legal-equality campaigns. His long-running sitcom role increased visibility of same-sex parenting on network television.

Russell Tovey

Russell Tovey has starred in ‘Looking’, ‘Being Human’, and ‘Years and Years’. He has discussed the evolution of gay roles in British and American television. Tovey appears regularly in theater, balancing stage and screen projects. His career includes multiple contemporary queer narratives reaching international audiences.

Wentworth Miller

Wentworth Miller achieved global fame with ‘Prison Break’ and later came out publicly. He has spoken about mental health, representation, and the pressures of staying closeted in the industry. Miller declined events in countries with anti-LGBTQ+ laws, citing human-rights concerns. He has written episodes for ‘The Flash’ universe, contributing to inclusive storytelling behind the camera.

Tab Hunter

Tab Hunter was a 1950s film star who later came out and produced the documentary ‘Tab Hunter Confidential’. His story revealed the studio-era pressure to hide sexuality. Hunter’s career and later writings offered a primary-source account of Hollywood’s treatment of gay actors. The documentary and memoir preserved important LGBTQ+ film history.

Sal Mineo

Sal Mineo earned early acclaim with ‘Rebel Without a Cause’ and continued working in film and theater. He discussed his sexuality in later interviews, challenging earlier taboos. Mineo also directed and produced stage work, expanding his creative output. His career illustrated mid-century obstacles and the gradual shift toward openness for gay actors.

Noël Coward

Noël Coward was an actor, playwright, and composer whose screen and stage performances spanned decades, including works adapted into films like ‘Brief Encounter’ and ‘Blithe Spirit’. He maintained a public persona understood to be gay within the constraints of his era. Coward’s diaries and biographies document his relationships and artistic network. His influence shaped performance styles and the acceptance of urbane queer sensibilities in entertainment.

Anthony Rapp

Anthony Rapp is known for ‘Rent’ on stage and ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ on television. He has been openly gay for many years and has spoken publicly about industry conduct and safety. Rapp participates in charitable events supporting LGBTQ+ youth and the arts. His work in musical theater and science fiction broadened queer representation across genres.

Brian Michael Smith

Brian Michael Smith is a trailblazing trans male actor recognized for roles in ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’ and ‘Queen Sugar’. He has advocated for trans visibility in casting and media coverage. Smith frequently speaks about the importance of trans-inclusive healthcare and workplace practices. His ongoing roles in network television expanded opportunities for trans men in mainstream media.

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan balances a music career with acting credits in projects like ‘Boy Erased’ and ‘The Idol’. He has been openly gay since his early public life and uses his platform to support LGBTQ+ youth organizations. Sivan’s videos and performances often feature queer themes and collaborators. His presence in both pop music and screen roles reaches a global, cross-generational audience.

Share which actors you’d add to this list—and why—in the comments.