LGBTQ+ Actors We Lost in 2025
The year 2025 has been a somber period for the entertainment industry, marked by the loss of several influential figures within the LGBTQ+ community. From pioneering television icons who broke barriers in the 20th century to modern reality stars who championed visibility, these performers left an indelible mark on screen and stage. Their contributions helped shape the landscape of contemporary media and provided representation for generations of fans. We honor their legacies by reflecting on their careers and the circumstances of their passing this year.
Richard Chamberlain
Screen legend Richard Chamberlain passed away on March 29, 2025, just days before he was set to celebrate his 91st birthday. The Golden Globe and Emmy-winning actor was best known for his titular role in the medical drama ‘Dr. Kildare’ and his performance in the celebrated miniseries ‘The Thorn Birds’. Chamberlain, who officially came out as gay in his 2003 memoir, died peacefully at his home, though no specific cause of death was publicly released. His extensive career in film, television, and theatre established him as one of the most significant leading men of his generation.
Anthony Geary
Daytime television icon Anthony Geary died on December 14, 2025, at the age of 78. Famous for his record-breaking portrayal of Luke Spencer on the long-running soap opera ‘General Hospital’, Geary passed away due to complications following a scheduled surgical operation. He won eight Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series during his career, setting a standard for excellence in the genre. While he maintained a private life for many years, he was a beloved figure whose work resonated deeply with audiences for decades.
The Vivienne
James Lee Williams, known professionally as The Vivienne, tragically died on January 5, 2025, at the age of 32. The drag performer and inaugural winner of ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’ suffered a cardiac arrest linked to the effects of ketamine use. Williams was a celebrated television personality who brought British drag culture to a global stage with charisma and exceptional talent. The sudden loss of such a vibrant and young entertainer sent shockwaves through the fan community and prompted numerous tributes from fellow artists.
Jiggly Caliente
Transgender actress and drag performer Jiggly Caliente passed away on April 27, 2025, at the age of 44. Best known for her recurring role as Veronica Ferocity in the acclaimed FX series ‘Pose’ and her appearances on ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’, she died shortly after undergoing a leg amputation caused by a severe infection. Caliente was a vocal advocate for the trans community and used her platform to increase inclusivity within the entertainment industry. Her transition from reality television contestant to dramatic actress showcased her versatility and determination.
Colton Ford
Glenn Soukesian, professionally known as Colton Ford, died on May 22, 2025, at the age of 62 following a hiking accident. Ford was a unique figure in the industry who successfully transitioned from adult entertainment to mainstream acting and music, starring in the vampire series ‘The Lair’. He was also known for his musical collaborations and his role in the documentary ‘Naked Fame’, which chronicled his career shift. His work challenged stigmas regarding performers in the adult industry and he remained a cult figure in queer pop culture until his untimely death.
Please let us know which of these stars inspired you the most in the comments.
