Most Badass LGBTQ+ Actors of All Time

The entertainment industry has undergone a massive transformation regarding the visibility and celebration of LGBTQ+ talent. Actors who once had to hide their true selves are now leading major blockbusters and critically acclaimed series while living openly and authentically. These performers bring incredible intensity and charisma to roles ranging from superheroes to complex villains. Their contributions have paved the way for future generations to perform without compromising their identities. This list celebrates the male actors who have defined what it means to be a badass on and off the screen.

Ian McKellen

This legendary British thespian is a titan of both stage and screen with a career spanning over six decades. He gained global fame for playing the villainous Magneto in the ‘X-Men’ franchise and the wizard Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’. His activism for gay rights has been just as impactful as his legendary acting roles. He continues to perform in challenging Shakespearean roles well into his eighties. Few actors possess the commanding presence and gravitas that he brings to every project.

Luke Evans

This Welsh actor established himself as a premier action star with intense physical roles. He played the antagonist Owen Shaw in ‘Fast & Furious 6’ and portrayed the legendary vampire in ‘Dracula Untold’. Evans brought depth to the character of Gaston in the live-action adaptation of ‘Beauty and the Beast’. He combines rugged masculinity with impressive vocal talent in his musical performances. His career seamlessly bridges the gap between big-budget action films and dramatic character studies.

Zachary Quinto

Quinto terrified audiences with his breakout role as the superpowered serial killer Sylar in ‘Heroes’. He later took on the iconic mantle of Spock in the rebooted ‘Star Trek’ film series. His ability to play intellectually complex and often menacing characters sets him apart in Hollywood. He consistently chooses roles that challenge traditional narratives and showcase his incredible range. He is also a successful producer who champions independent cinema.

Matt Bomer

Bomer captivated audiences as the charming con artist Neal Caffrey in the hit series ‘White Collar’. He delivered a heartbreaking performance in the HBO film ‘The Normal Heart’ which earned him a Golden Globe. His career includes diverse roles in ‘Magic Mike’ and the superhero series ‘Doom Patrol’. He effectively balances suave leading man energy with emotionally vulnerable dramatic work. Bomer remains a powerful advocate for equity within the entertainment industry.

Wentworth Miller

Miller became an international sensation as the brilliant structural engineer Michael Scofield in ‘Prison Break’. He later transitioned to screenwriting and starred as Captain Cold in the ‘Arrowverse’ superhero shows. His public coming out was a courageous stand against human rights violations in Russia. He has since been open about his mental health journey and inspires fans with his resilience. Miller brings a quiet intensity and intelligence to every character he inhabits.

Andrew Scott

This Irish actor created one of the most memorable television villains of the modern era as Moriarty in ‘Sherlock’. He later gained massive acclaim as the “Hot Priest” in the celebrated series ‘Fleabag’. Scott possesses a chameleon-like ability to disappear into roles that range from terrifying to deeply lovable. His stage work continues to garner awards and praise from critics worldwide. He consistently delivers performances that are both subtle and electrifying.

Lee Pace

Pace commands attention with his imposing stature and versatility in genre films. He played the elven king Thranduil in ‘The Hobbit’ trilogy and the fanatic Ronan the Accuser in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’. His role in the cult favorite ‘Pushing Daisies’ showcased his ability to handle whimsical comedy with ease. He currently stars as the galactic emperor in the sci-fi epic ‘Foundation’. Pace brings a unique regality and power to his portrayals of leaders and villains.

John Barrowman

Barrowman is best known for his swashbuckling role as Captain Jack Harkness in ‘Doctor Who’ and ‘Torchwood’. His character was a groundbreaking representation of omnisexuality in mainstream science fiction. He is a consummate showman who performs in musical theater and hosts various television programs. His energy and charisma make him a fan favorite at conventions around the world. Barrowman has never shied away from being his authentic self in the public eye.

Neil Patrick Harris

Harris successfully transitioned from a child star to a versatile adult actor and host. He played the womanizing Barney Stinson in ‘How I Met Your Mother’ while being openly gay in real life. His role in ‘Gone Girl’ demonstrated his ability to handle dark and serious dramatic material. He is a Tony Award winner who has hosted the Oscars and starred on Broadway. Harris remains one of the most visible and successful LGBTQ+ entertainers in history.

George Takei

Takei is a sci-fi icon known for portraying Hikaru Sulu in the original ‘Star Trek’ series. He has used his platform to advocate for social justice and share his experience as an internee during World War II. His deep baritone voice and massive social media presence have kept him relevant for decades. He bravely came out later in life and revitalized his career as a champion for equality. Takei proves that resilience and dignity are the ultimate forms of badassery.

Colman Domingo

Domingo is a force of nature who steals every scene he is in. He delivered a terrifying performance as Victor Strand in ‘Fear the Walking Dead’ and won an Emmy for his role in ‘Euphoria’. His portrayal of the civil rights activist Bayard Rustin in ‘Rustin’ earned him critical acclaim. He writes and directs projects that highlight underrepresented voices in media. His commanding screen presence makes him one of the most compelling actors working today.

Billy Porter

Porter redefined red carpet fashion and broke barriers as a leading man in the series ‘Pose’. His portrayal of Pray Tell earned him an Emmy Award and cemented his status as a television icon. He is a Tony Award-winning Broadway veteran with incredible vocal power. His memoir and directorial debut showcase his multifaceted talents beyond acting. Porter consistently challenges gender norms and demands visibility for the Black LGBTQ+ community.

Rupert Everett

Everett was a major star in the nineties who charmed audiences in ‘My Best Friend’s Wedding’. He has played aristocratic and often biting characters in films like ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’. His career faced challenges after coming out early but he persevered to direct and star in ‘The Happy Prince’. He portrayed Oscar Wilde with heartbreaking accuracy and depth in his directorial debut. Everett remains a sharp-witted and fearless figure in British cinema.

Ben Whishaw

Whishaw brought a fresh and youthful energy to the role of Q in the Daniel Craig ‘James Bond’ films. He is the voice of the beloved character Paddington Bear and brings warmth to the animated icon. His performance in ‘A Very English Scandal’ earned him a Golden Globe for his dramatic range. He is known for playing complex and fragile characters with immense emotional depth. Whishaw keeps his private life low-key while delivering high-profile performances.

Jonathan Groff

Groff originated the role of King George III in the cultural phenomenon ‘Hamilton’. He showed a darker side as an FBI agent studying serial killers in the Netflix series ‘Mindhunter’. His voice work as Kristoff in ‘Frozen’ introduced him to a global audience of all ages. He seamlessly moves between Broadway musicals and intense television dramas. Groff brings a distinct charm and intensity to every project he undertakes.

Alan Cumming

Cumming is a dynamic performer known for his role as Nightcrawler in ‘X2: X-Men United’. He delivered an unforgettable performance as the Emcee in the revival of ‘Cabaret’ on Broadway. His acting range covers everything from high camp to serious political drama in ‘The Good Wife’. He is an author and activist who owns a bar in New York City. Cumming embodies a punk-rock spirit and refuses to be pigeonholed into a single genre.

Russell Tovey

Tovey gained popularity as a werewolf in the supernatural drama ‘Being Human’. He has since taken on roles in ‘Quantico’ and the horror series ‘American Horror Story’. His work often explores themes of masculinity and vulnerability in modern society. He is also a passionate art collector and hosts a popular podcast about contemporary art. Tovey brings a grounded and relatable toughness to his characters.

Victor Garber

Garber is a veteran actor with an authoritative presence that serves him well in roles like Jack Bristow in ‘Alias’. He played the shipbuilder Thomas Andrews in the blockbuster ‘Titanic’. He is also known to superhero fans as Martin Stein in ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. His career spans Broadway and Hollywood with consistent critical success. Garber commands respect in every scene with his calm and intelligent delivery.

BD Wong

Wong is the only actor to have played a major character in all three ‘Jurassic Park’ trilogies. He won a Tony Award for his debut performance in ‘M. Butterfly’ on Broadway. His role as the mysterious Whiterose in ‘Mr. Robot’ showcased his ability to play menacing and complex villains. He has been a staple on television for decades in ‘Law & Order: SVU’. Wong consistently breaks barriers for Asian American actors in the industry.

Richard Chamberlain

Chamberlain was the king of the television miniseries in the eighties with hits like ‘The Thorn Birds’ and ‘Shogun’. He was the original heartthrob Dr. Kildare in the sixties and maintained a massive fan base. He came out publicly later in life and wrote a candid memoir about his experiences. His career paved the way for leading men to eventually live openly. He remains a symbol of classic Hollywood stardom and endurance.

Rock Hudson

Hudson was the epitome of the Hollywood leading man in the fifties and sixties. He starred in iconic romantic comedies like ‘Pillow Talk’ and action films like ‘Ice Station Zebra’. His diagnosis and death from AIDS-related complications changed the public conversation about the epidemic forever. Although he could not be out during his prime, his legacy is now inextricably linked to LGBTQ+ history. He remains one of the most charismatic stars to ever grace the screen.

Tab Hunter

Hunter was a blonde heartthrob who dominated the box office in the fifties. He lived a secret life while dating Anthony Perkins and other stars of the era. Later in his career, he embraced his camp icon status by working with John Waters in ‘Polyester’. His documentary ‘Tab Hunter Confidential’ revealed the reality of being a closeted star in the studio system. Hunter proved that one could survive the Hollywood machine and find happiness.

Montgomery Clift

Clift was a method acting pioneer who starred in classics like ‘A Place in the Sun’ and ‘From Here to Eternity’. He defied the traditional macho image of the time with his sensitive and brooding performances. His refusal to sign a studio contract gave him unprecedented freedom in choosing his roles. Tragically, his life was cut short, but his influence on acting styles remains profound. He is remembered as one of the most beautiful and talented actors of his generation.

Anthony Perkins

Perkins immortalized the character of Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece ‘Psycho’. His twitchy and nervous energy created the template for modern psychological horror villains. He continued to work in film and theater despite the typecasting that followed his most famous role. Perkins lived a complex life that was only fully understood by the public posthumously. His contribution to the horror genre is unmatched and timeless.

John Gielgud

Gielgud is considered one of the greatest actors in the history of the theater. He won an Oscar for his role as the acerbic butler in ‘Arthur’. His voice was often described as the finest in the English language. He continued to work in major films like ‘Prospero’s Books’ well into his final years. Gielgud was a master of his craft who commanded absolute respect from his peers.

Harvey Fierstein

Fierstein is a gravel-voiced icon who wrote and starred in the groundbreaking play ‘Torch Song Trilogy’. He played the brother of Robin Williams in ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and voiced Yao in ‘Mulan’. His work often confronts issues of gay identity and family dynamics head-on. He is a fierce advocate who has won multiple Tony Awards for his writing and acting. Fierstein refuses to compromise his unique voice or persona for anyone.

Nathan Lane

Lane is a comedy giant known for his voice work as Timon in ‘The Lion King’. He starred alongside Robin Williams in the American adaptation of ‘The Birdcage’. His stage career includes record-breaking runs in ‘The Producers’ and ‘Guys and Dolls’. He seamlessly transitions between hysterical comedy and serious drama on television and stage. Lane is a beloved figure who brings immense energy to every performance.

Stephen Fry

Fry is a British national treasure known for his wit and intellect. He played the lead role in the biopic ‘Wilde’ and starred in ‘V for Vendetta’. His voice work in the ‘Harry Potter’ audiobooks is legendary among fans. He has been openly gay for decades and speaks candidly about mental health issues. Fry combines a massive intellect with a charming and commanding screen presence.

Elliot Page

Page is a talented actor who received an Academy Award nomination for ‘Juno’. He plays Vanya Hargreeves in the hit superhero series ‘The Umbrella Academy’. His coming out as a trans man was a watershed moment for trans visibility in Hollywood. He continues to produce and star in projects that challenge the status quo. Page inspires millions by living his truth while maintaining a high-profile career.

Wilson Cruz

Cruz made history as Rickie Vasquez in ‘My So-Called Life’ as the first openly gay actor playing a gay teen on TV. He currently stars as Dr. Hugh Culber in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’. His activism extends beyond the screen as he works with GLAAD to improve representation. He brings a deep empathy and strength to his roles. Cruz has been fighting for visibility and acceptance for over thirty years.

Cheyenne Jackson

Jackson is a versatile performer who has appeared in multiple seasons of ‘American Horror Story’. He starred in the sitcom ’30 Rock’ and the fantastical musical ‘Descendants 3’. His imposing physical presence and vocal talent make him a standout in both comedy and horror. He is open about his family life and sobriety. Jackson consistently delivers charismatic performances across all mediums.

Denis O’Hare

O’Hare is a character actor known for his scene-stealing roles in ‘True Blood’ and ‘American Horror Story’. He plays the vampire King of Mississippi with a menacing Southern charm. His stage work has earned him a Tony Award for ‘Take Me Out’. He brings a quirky and often unsettling intensity to his villainous roles. O’Hare is a master of transforming his appearance and voice for each character.

Brian J. Smith

Smith gained a devoted following for his role as Will Gorski in the sci-fi series ‘Sense8’. He showcased his action chops as a police officer mentally linked to a global cluster of people. He has also starred in ‘Stargate Universe’ and the ‘Matrix Resurrections’. His Broadway performances in ‘The Glass Menagerie’ earned him critical praise. Smith brings a raw physical and emotional vulnerability to his action roles.

Charlie Carver

Carver is known for his roles in ‘Teen Wolf’ and ‘The Leftovers’ alongside his twin brother. He played a significant role in ‘The Boys in the Band’ both on Broadway and in the film adaptation. He recently appeared in ‘The Batman’ as a club bouncer. Carver uses his platform to discuss LGBTQ+ rights and personal growth. He combines traditional leading man looks with sensitive character work.

Keiynan Lonsdale

Lonsdale is best known for playing Kid Flash in ‘The Flash’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. He starred in the groundbreaking teen rom-com ‘Love, Simon’. His music and dance career complement his acting with a distinct artistic style. He embraces a fluid expression of fashion and identity that challenges norms. Lonsdale brings a vibrant and youthful energy to the superhero genre.

Colton Haynes

Haynes became a star through his roles in ‘Teen Wolf’ and as Arsenal in ‘Arrow’. He has been open about the pressures of Hollywood and his personal journey. His role in ‘American Horror Story: Cult’ showcased a darker side of his acting ability. He is a fashion icon known for his elaborate Halloween costumes. Haynes continues to evolve as an actor while advocating for mental health awareness.

Haaz Sleiman

Sleiman played the role of Ben in the Marvel film ‘Eternals’ as the husband of the superhero Phastos. He appeared in ‘Nurse Jackie’ and the indie film ‘The Visitor’. He is vocal about his experience as a gay Muslim man in Hollywood. His roles often challenge stereotypes about Middle Eastern men. Sleiman brings warmth and dignity to groundbreaking representations of family.

Murray Bartlett

Bartlett experienced a massive career surge with his Emmy-winning role in ‘The White Lotus’. He delivered a beautiful and tragic performance in the adaptation of ‘The Last of Us’. His earlier work in ‘Looking’ established him as a talented dramatic actor. He brings a chaotic yet deeply human energy to his recent high-profile roles. Bartlett proves that breakout success can happen at any stage of a career.

Conrad Ricamora

Kristian Nairn

Nairn is globally recognized for his role as Hodor in ‘Game of Thrones’. He is also a successful professional DJ who tours the world. His character became one of the most beloved and tragic figures in the fantasy series. He was open about his sexuality long before his massive fame. Nairn proves that a non-speaking role can still leave a massive cultural impact.

Jeremy Pope

Pope garnered immediate acclaim for his roles in ‘Hollywood’ and ‘The Inspection’. He received a Tony nomination for his work in the play ‘Choir Boy’. His performance as a Marine in ‘The Inspection’ was a raw look at homophobia in the military. He possesses a magnetic star quality that recalls the golden age of cinema. Pope is quickly becoming one of the most exciting young actors in the industry.

Justice Smith

Smith starred in the blockbuster ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’ and ‘Detective Pikachu’. He played a lead role in the fantasy adventure ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. He came out as queer and has been a visible advocate for the community. His roles often blend comedic timing with genuine emotional stakes. Smith is a rising star who anchors major franchises with ease.

Dan Levy

Levy created and starred in the cultural phenomenon ‘Schitt’s Creek’. His portrayal of David Rose introduced a pansexual character to mainstream audiences in a normalized way. He won multiple Emmy Awards for writing, directing, and acting in the series. He brings a specific and hilarious comedic sensibility to everything he touches. Levy has become a major power player in the television landscape.

Anthony Rapp

Rapp originated the role of Mark Cohen in the Broadway sensation ‘Rent’. He played Lieutenant Paul Stamets in ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ as part of the first gay couple in the franchise’s history. His career began as a child actor in ‘Adventures in Babysitting’. He is a fierce advocate who helped spark the #MeToo movement in the entertainment industry. Rapp brings a distinct intelligence and integrity to his work.

Troye Sivan

Sivan is a global pop star who also delivers compelling acting performances. He starred in the conversion therapy drama ‘Boy Erased’ alongside Nicole Kidman. He recently appeared in the edgy series ‘The Idol’. His YouTube origins laid the groundwork for a massive and loyal fanbase. Sivan represents a new generation of artists who fluidly move between music and film.

Olly Alexander

Alexander starred in the critically acclaimed drama ‘It’s a Sin’ about the AIDS crisis in London. He is the frontman for the music project Years & Years. His acting career includes roles in ‘Skins’ and ‘Penny Dreadful’. He is an outspoken activist for LGBTQ+ mental health and rights. Alexander brings a raw and fearless vulnerability to his dramatic roles.

Joel Kim Booster

Booster wrote and starred in the modern adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, ‘Fire Island’. He is a stand-up comedian who tackles race and sexuality with razor-sharp wit. His acting credits include the comedy series ‘Loot’. He provides a fresh and necessary perspective in the comedy world. Booster is defining a new era of queer romantic comedies.

Bowen Yang

Yang is a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ known for his scene-stealing characters. He made history as one of the first Asian American cast members on the show. He starred in ‘Fire Island’ and the musical comedy ‘Dicks: The Musical’. His comedic style is fast, pop-culture literate, and unapologetically queer. Yang has quickly become one of the funniest voices in sketch comedy.

Please share your favorite performances by these actors in the comments.